We gardeners are a diverse, passion-driven crowd. There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to us. Some of us are brazen in our approach, utilizing bold colors or rare plants to stake our claim in the world as collectors, artists or whimsical gardeners. Some of us are philosophers or travelers, taking the quiet road of reflection to establish our garden enclaves. Then there are the romantics among us, those who celebrate life and love with sentimentality, passion and zeal.

Romantics are often accused of seeing the world through rose-colored glasses. They may, arguably, have the best view of all. Let’s look at how to design a garden that satisfies the spirit of the romantic. Design Focus International Create a private entrance. The romantic garden is not open to everyone. Unlike the garden of the extrovert, where the gate may be transparent and open, the entrance to the romantic garden is solid and private. The gate comes with a lock. Softening this hardscape with delicate vines or softly textured plants gives a subtle hint of what is to come while establishing boundaries.

In this garden, an invitation is definitely required. The Todd Group Set a seductive mood with paths. Much like the female form, serpentine pathways create the sensual vibe of an unfolding story. The entire garden is not visible from any single juncture. A sense of mystery is established as the garden is explored and discovered anew at every turn. A quick straight path to first base is not to be found in this garden. Dave Adams Photography Allow for impromptu vignettes. Romantics are generally spontaneous people who enjoy thoughtful surprises. An impromptu lunch served on a portable table may be just the thing to set the tone for an afternoon. Perhaps next time the table is around another bend in a different section of the garden.

Good-quality table linens, flatware and candles are all appropriate. No paper plates are allowed. Aiken House & Gardens Embrace sentimentality by alluding to a bygone era. There is arguably no period in history that conjures up feelings of romance like the Victorian era. Incorporating a few lacy, frilly accent pieces is a sure way to spark that romantic spirit. Shannon Malone Consider the use of candles. What better way to foster a romantic mood than by the use of candles? Their soft, mellow flickering light illustrates the ebb and flow of romance that satisfies the spirit of this gardener. Real candles are infinitely better than LED and battery-operated ones in the garden of the romantic (if carefully attended, of course).

Additionally, subtle background lighting by means of soft accent lights will complete the mood. The New York Botanical Garden Choose your plant palette. Plant choices can make or break a mood, and this is especially true in the garden of the romantic. In this garden, marigolds and petunias give way to solitary roses, spires of salvia and foxglove, and patches of lavender and rosemary.

The rose, more than any other flower, embodies the spirit of romance. Its fleshy, softly textured petals stand in stark contrast to its thorny stems. Fragrance is released as its petals unfold. Early risers can savor the drops of morning dew on its petals. White roses are especially appropriate in this garden because they symbolize purity and innocence. Le jardinet Layer your plants. Layering will give this garden depth and interest, not unlike weaving a tapestry. Consider varying heights, textures and visual weights when it comes to choosing plants. Plants with an open form, such as this tall verbena (Verbena bonariensis, zones 7 to 10) act as a sheer lacy curtain, adding depth and drama to a planting scheme. Denise Dering Design Use pastels. Soft pastel colors are just the thing to round out the planting scheme in this type of garden. They become subtle supporting actors in the overall theme of the garden in a way that bold reds and oranges could never do. Accenting them with some pops of chartreuse injects just the right amount of understated drama.

See how to create this romantic border Carolyn Chadwick Don’t forget intoxicating fragrance. The garden of the romantic seduces all five senses. A patch of fragrant rosemary or lavender, a trio of gardenias or a trellis covered in heirloom roses all prime the senses to experience the fullness the garden offers those who venture there. Make sure to pick a single scent to mark its territory in the garden. Too many competing scents may conjure up undesirable images of a funeral parlor. Margie Grace - Grace Design Associates Complete the mood with simple sounds and soft music. The primal sound that a single drop of water makes as it falls into a basin is just as appropriate as a softly playing classical piece in opening the senses to the full beauty of the romantic garden. Less is more, so choose appropriately; then savor the heady sensuality of this garden in all its fullness.

More: What Kind of Gardener Are You? Find Your Archetype