See also:
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Lawn & Garden Decorations
A truly beautiful lawn or garden contains
not only trees, shrubs, and plants arranged
in a pleasing design, but also a tasteful
selection of antiques and decorative accessories
placed to enhance the viewers’ enjoyment.
These accessories can be used to create focal
points that draw the eye to important parts
of the garden, or they can be placed as surprises
that only reveal themselves when the visitor
has turned a corner or come to the end of
a path. Although these items should never
overwhelm the space, they can be used in
any size garden, from the smallest urban
backyard to the grandest of rural estates.
Lanterns, statues, sundials, and columns
are commonly used as sculpture in the garden
to add height. All sorts of interesting architectural
fragments can also be used as sculpture.
Weathervanes draw the eye up toward the roof line. Bird baths and birdhouses attract the soothing presence
of feather friends. Fountains add the relaxing sound of water and can
mask unwanted background noises. Old rain
barrels also collect useful water. Sections
of metal or wooden fencing can make attractive and practical trellises, as can old ladders. Metal and stone urns
are wonderful planters. Other interesting
containers, such as window boxes and stone or cement
troughs, are also extraordinary
when planted.
The imaginative gardener can
use a variety
of antiques and accessories to
make the garden
a more creative space.
Genuine antique pieces tend to be more expensive
than decorative accessories, unless the item
is unique or specially commissioned artwork.
Very valuable antiques should usually not
be visible from the front of the property
unless they are behind locked fences and
gates. Make sure that the item you choose
can withstand the weather if it will stay
in the garden all year. Less durable pieces
should be stored indoors during seasons when
the weather is extremely hot or cold. Plants
and dirt should be removed from containers
that are not frost proof when the temperature
drops below freezing; most fountains should
be drained.
Garden antiques and decorative
accessories
can be purchased from antique
dealers who
specialize in them and from better
garden
centers. Antique shows, fairs
and, occasionally
even flea markets are other excellent
sources.
Many dealers have online sites.
Whenever
you buy an antique, make sure
you get a receipt
with a complete description that
includes
the item’s age. |
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