Bohemian landscapes are wild and free. They are effortless spaces where the change of seasons invites a deeper connection with nature.
The textural plantings and layered, flowing beds in a Bohemian landscape borrow their inspiration from meadows and prairies but are filled with plants that provide interest every month of the year in the Pacific Northwest. Despite the easy-going nature of the Bohemian landscape, there are some foundational principles that should be applied to make sure the look is full and successful.
In the Dennis’ 7 Dees Bohemian Landscape Design Guide, we detail the principles of this organic, free-flowing design style, the materials that should be used to create the look, and the plants and techniques that are essential to creating a clear and unmistakably Bohemian aesthetic.
Bohemian landscapes can be paired with any architectural style to create an easy-going, dynamic landscape. Ranch homes, craftsmen homes, and farmhouses all look fantastic when paired with modern meadows. Regardless of the style of your home, adding a prairie garden will help create a haven for wildlife and a sanctuary for homeowners.
Plants for a Bohemian Garden
An extensive list of hardy, Bohemian-style plants for Pacific Northwest landscapes is detailed in our Bohemian Design Guide.
- Tightly weave drifts of flowering perennials and ornamental grasses together across all beds—planting them close will help them support each other and hand off seasonal interest as one group goes out of bloom.
- Layer Spring-blooming bulbs next to late-summer plants to bring early-season excitement to otherwise blank spaces.
- Use deciduous shrubs sparingly to add structure and height, and to bring excitement with the addition of flowers, berries, and changes in fall color.
- Selectively add in flowering statement trees like Dogwood or Flowering Cherries and Apples to the edges of beds to introduce some drama without blocking critical light.
Bohemian Color Palettes
When designing a modern meadow, color can be used to pacify or to intensify the experience in the landscape. Two thoughtful color palettes were pulled together for our Bohemian Design Guide, each with their own feeling and perspective.
- To evoke a soft, calming experience, use colors from the Romantic Plant Palette which is features flowers in every shade of peach and lavender and foliage accents of glaucous blue.
- For a plant palette that feels more intense and broody, rely on a Moody Plant Palette of burgundy, cool blue, golden caramel, and amber hues.
Bohemian Landscape Materials
Materials in the Bohemian landscape help cultivate a sense of unstructured relaxation. From the soothing sounds of water to twinkling lights, this look is brought home with thoughtful features. Full hardscaping materials details and a list of finishing touches for patio and décor are included in the Bohemian Design Guide.
- For hardscapes, rely on natural stone in the form of flagstone, dimensional pavers, or even small, light-colored gravel to create paths that invite exploration through the garden.
- Pottery should be used freely and experimentally, mixing colors and finishes to create eclectic, memorable vignettes throughout the landscape.
- Use natural materials whenever possible, including light-toned wood to bring a relaxed warmth to sofas and tables.
Bohemian Landscape Maintenance Tips
Prairie gardens appear low-maintenance, but actually require thoughtful planning and planting to make the most of the layered look. Adding plants in Spring, Summer, and Fall will ensure that you have exciting and engaging textures and colors and keep the planting looking full.
During the Spring, gaps in the landscape can be filled with Summer annuals grown from starts or seeds. In Summer, selective deadheading will help extend the bloom season, but be sure to leave flower heads on as the seasons change. Perennials and Grasses should be left brown in the landscape through the Fall and Winter to provide seed for visiting birds and habitat for beneficial insects. Fall is also the perfect time to add in more Spring-flowering bulbs like Narcissus or Allium.
Modern meadows often benefit from a late Winter, early Spring cleanup, where debris is cleared and fresh, organic mulch is added to beds. Selective pruning of panicle Hydrangeas should also be done in Spring to help keep plants strong and upright.
Dennis’ 7 Dees Residential Maintenance division is skilled in tidying up landscapes of any style and can be hired for a one-time enhancement or cleanup.
Creating a Relaxing Bohemian Landscape
Dennis’ 7 Dees Bohemian Design Guide is the perfect starting point for creating your own relaxing, Bohemian landscape, whether you’re just looking for inspiration or are ready to build your haven.
Follow the principles outlined in the guide to ensure you have set up your garden to become the nature-inspired hideaway of your dreams. Use our comprehensive plant lists to make sure the plants you select will work well together in similar conditions and help bring the style to life. Utilize our color palettes to ensure that foliage, flowers, and textures of your plants blend together with intention and that nothing looks out of place.
If you love this look but don’t have time to implement it, our talented Residential Construction team can partner with you design, oversee, and install your custom Bohemian landscape. You can trust our award-winning Landscape Designers and skilled installation crews to help you bring this iconic look to life. Book a free consultation and start your garden’s transformation today!