Gardens are magical places. The shape of the landscape (or cityscape) and the plants set the mood and provide interest. But it is often the hardscapes that separate great gardens from good ones. Benches, arbors, patios, and other features define the space, frame the best views, and provide places for reflection in the garden.
Arbors are like two sturdy trellises attached together. Although not completely closed, the tops also have latticework or cross pieces that provide some shade. Arbors can serve as entranceways to the main garden or as portals between garden rooms. Built-in seating transforms an arbor into a cozy resting spot. Gardeners who have a desire to grow larger vines like sweet autumn clematis, mandevillas, climbing roses, and Carolina Jessamine will want to make room for an arbor or two.
Pergolas are even larger structures consisting of an overhead lattice structure that rests atop posts, resembling several arbors connected together. Pergolas are often used to border or frame gardens. Their large size and sturdy nature make them suitable for massive vines, including grapes, scuppernongs (Vitis rotundifolia cultivars), bougainvillea, wisteria, and Lady Banks rose (Rosa banksiae normalis). Most urban home lots won’t have room for a pergola, but they make great additions to municipal parks, schools campuses, and other public grounds.
Like pergolas, gazebos are usually reserved for large spaces. The many-sided structure has a solid roof that provides shade and some protection from the weather. Gazebos are often the focal points of outdoor events and gatherings. If you are a social butterfly with large acreage and spectacular views, then perhaps you need a gazebo. The rest of us will have to be content to sit under one in a botanic garden or park.
Adding hardscapes to a garden is a much more permanent decision than selecting a perennial. Study your options and make the choice that feels right. First, take care of your needs (seating, shade, vertical screens, recreation space) and the rest will fall into place. Hardscaping can be as fun and rewarding as landscaping. So make a plan, grab a hammer, drill, goggles, plus a few handy friends, and start building.