Create a Parterre Garden

When to Start: Spring
At Its Best: Summer
Time to Complete: 4 hours for the small parterre, measuring 3 ft. x 4 ft., above

Materials Needed:

• small boxwood plants, 'Suffruticosa'
• 1 bay tree (Laurus nobilis)
• shrubby herbs, such as rosemary, lavender, curry plant, cotton lavender and thyme — 3 plants per segment
• shovel
• organic matter
• rake

• landscape fabric
• measuring tape
• chalk
• short stakes or pegs
• sharp knife
• gravel or slate chippings

Prepare the Soil

First, decide on the design you want and sketch it on paper — this parterre is a simple cross pattern. Then clear the area of grass and weeds, and add organic matter, such as garden compost, to improve the soil's structure. Silver-leaved herbs like well-drained soil, so if yours is heavy, add plenty of organic matter. Level the area carefully with a rake.

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Lay and Secure Landscape Fabric

The entire area should be covered in a good quality landscape fabric to suppress weeds and keep moisture in. Pin down the edges securely or slide them under the existing turf.

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Mark Out a Hedging Plan

Use a tape measure and chalk to mark out your pattern. Space the hedging plants at 8-inch intervals; insert short stakes to mark their positions. The plants will quickly spread to form a dense hedge.

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