An easy definition of hardscape is anything in the garden that is not currently alive. Paths, decks, arbors, statuary, pots, containers, gates, fences and outdoor buildings all fall into this category. These features add to the overall theme and impact of the garden. Some people emphasize the hardscape more than the plant material which is just fine too.
There are a few basic rules or guidelines that will help make your use of hardscape much more pleasing. One of these is that the materials you use should agree with your overall landscape plan. If you have a formal garden, try to use formal hardscape elements. One way to define formal is that it exhibits more human influence than natural influence. Items that have a high level of "finish" such as enamel paints or polished granite or other stone would be considered formal. Finials with fancy curly details and paths with very straight, hard edged lines would also fit into this category.
Informal gardens should feature hardscape elements that are "closer to the land." Earth tone colors fit best in this type of environment. Stone products with a low level of finish and rounded edges fall into this category. The closer the element is to its natural origins, the more informal it tends to be in the landscape.
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