Please note: I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases if you shop through links on this page. More info.
This Blocking Method Will Have You Drawing Pro Garden Plans in No Time
If you’re struggling with creating a cohesive landscape and arranging plants within a garden bed, you’re going to love this blocking method.
1- Create a Series of Blocks that Overlap Each Other
The first step in the blocking method is to draw out a series of rectangular blocks that overlap each other.
These rectangular shapes will form the composition of your design, so take your time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ideas!
Draw a series of blocks that overlap. I like to create small thumbnails and experiment with different block formations. Illustration by PrettyPurpleDoor.
If you know where you’ll be planting your garden bed, make sure that none of your blocks will “block” your windows, doors, utilities or other views.
For example, if you had a low window on the right side of the garden bed, you’d want to add a rectangle that’s lower than the bottom of the window.
2- Fill Each Block with a Plant
Fill each block with a single plant or a series of the same plant. I like to create multiple small sketches then choose my favorites to refine. Illustration by PrettyPurpleDoor.
Use one only one plant type or one form per block (like a row of catmint or a group of inkberry holly). For right now, just use basic plant shapes and repeat them in the blocks.
By having to repeat the same plant form and also choose different forms for each block, it’s going to force you to think about layering and repetition, which are two really important principles in garden design.
Here are some plant forms you can try.
If possible, repeat your plant forms within the block and try to use a variety of plant forms in your layout. This will add contrast to you design. Contrast, by the way, is another important garden design principle.
If you like these plant form sketches, you can also grab my free printable and use them to create your own garden plan.
3- Refine Your Design
Here you can see the selected sketch and how I refined the shapes and forms to make them more “plant-like.” I also add color at this stage to better visualize the design. Illustration by PrettyPurpleDoor.
After I’ve drawn a few different thumbnail versions, I pick my favorites and refine them.
This is where you can start to think about what plants you may want to use and how you can achieve a good balance.
If you still don’t know what plants to use, that’s ok!
After you come up with the layout you like, you can research plants that are in the particular size, shape and color you’ve drawn. One website I like for this is garden.org’s advanced plant search.
I almost always pick my plants last when I’m designing, too.
4- Add Color
Next, add color so you can better visualize your design. I like to experiment with a lot of different color combinations.
Searching inspiring gardens on Pinterest, Houzz, Instagram or even in magazines is a great way to get inspired with color.
Another handy trick is to look at the artwork on your walls or the colors of the clothes in your closet! It will help you to learn what colors you’re attracted to and what looks good together in your eye.
After you’ve developed a design using the blocking method, be sure to experiment with different color combinations to see what may inspire you. Illustration by Pretty Purple Door.
If you want to learn more about color, check out my article on creating your own color garden schemes.
Or, head over to this article if you want to learn more ways you can draw a killer garden plan by hand.
Garden Plan Blocking Method How-To Video
I learned the Blocking Method from Lisa Nunamaker over at Paper Garden Workshop, so be sure to check out her website and thank her for introducing us to this fun and useful drawing technique!
Wrapping Up
If you’re struggling with arranging plants in a garden bed you’re going to love this blocking method. First, create a series of blocks that overlap each other. This will form the composition of your design so take your time. Fill each block with a plant. Use one only one plant per block. If you can, repeat your plant within the block and try to use a variety of plant shapes/forms your layout to add contrast. Next, refine your design… think about what plants you may want to use and how you can achieve a good balance. Then, add color so you can visualize your design.
If you’re looking for more ways to draw your garden, head over to this post where I discuss my top 5 tips for drawing a killer garden plan.
Shop my Amazon storefront for my essential gardening books & tool recommendations!
More Garden Design Articles You’ll Love
- Find Your Zen: How to Create a Meditation Garden in Any Space (Complete Guide)
Deep breath in, deep breath out… And enjoy this complete guide for creating a tranquil meditation garden in any size or budget! - Asian Gardens: Tips for Creating a Tranquil Oasis in Your Garden Space (Complete Guide)Japanese, Chinese & Korean gardens are known for their peace and tranquility. Unwind and unfurl in the meditative space that is the Asian garden!
- Mediterranean Garden Style: Planting, Landscaping and Design Advice for Any Space (Complete Guide)Embrace your climate & surroundings! Learn the philosophy of the Mediterranean garden style and how to apply it, no matter where you live.
- Is Shrub Hub Legit? Read A Professional Landscape Designer’s ReviewI’m a professional landscape designer and I tried Shrub Hub to see if they could help me reimagine my front yard. Here’s some pros, cons and a complete review.
What Blooms with What?
Never know what to plant together? Find out with this FREE Plant Pairing Guide and become a pro at combining plants for the best garden design possible!
Amy Fedele
Amy is the founder of Pretty Purple Door and has been a garden designer since 2014 and graphic designer since 2005. She helps home gardeners design their own beautiful landscapes that are colorful in all four seasons, show off your personality and suit your lifestyle. Amy's work has been featured in publications like The Spruce, Family Handyman, Buzzfeed, Country Living Magazine and more. Read full bio.