Tips to Grow a Thriving French Garden in Your Backyard

Americans love gardening, and with Trump's return, the hobby is likely to become even more popular in the US.  According to CNN, vegetables and fruits will become more expensive in the future.  Mexico, the largest supplier, will face heavy blanket tariffs in the coming months. Growing food in the backyard seems the best way to deal with the situation.

 Photo by Rodrigo dos Reis on Unsplash

Even if you aren’t worried about the prices, a beautiful garden in your backyard is soothing to the eye. Creating a thriving French garden is a great idea as it can bring a touch of elegance and charm reminiscent of the French countryside. However, you may feel confused about choosing the layout and plants for it.

In this article, we will share a few tips to cultivate your own French garden right outside your home.

Start with a French Layout

The layout is foundational to the classic aesthetic of a French garden. As per HGTV, these spaces replicate the elements of French chateaus and country homes. The best part is that they blend effortlessly into today’s modern yard. You just need to research the layouts and implement them into your space.

French gardens are acclaimed for their symmetrical designs. Design your garden in geometric shapes such as rectangles and circles to create a sense of order. Another feature it should include is paths leading to focal points. Besides maintaining symmetry, French gardens also feature flowing pathways that invite exploration.

Landscaping experts recommend curved lines to soften the rigid structure. You can also divide the space into distinct "rooms" or sections with hedges or trellises. These serve as private spaces for activities like meditation and dining.

Choose the Right Plants

After finalizing the garden layout, you must select appropriate plants for successful French gardening. Fragrant herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme give you a good start. To add a pop of colour, plant vibrant flowers such as roses, peonies, and sunflowers. A combination of perennials and annuals ensures year-round beauty.

Besides choosing the right plants for your French garden, invest in maintenance and care. Proper watering, soil care, and pest prevention are the cornerstones of garden care. At the same time, you must skip chemicals and opt for organic add-ons.

Michigan State University suggests avoiding the misuse of herbicides in homes in particular. Nearly 52 million households in the country use herbicides, which is a reason to worry. Roundup is recognized as one of the most dangerous herbicides, with lawsuits being filed by people suffering due to exposure. The Roundup lawsuit payouts average a whopping $150,000 each.

According to TorHoerman Law, persistent use of Roundup can lead to serious health hazards. The most daunting one is the risk of developing cancer, mainly non-Hodgkin lymphoma. As an avid gardener, you must steer clear of such chemicals and look for natural and safe alternatives.

Stick to a Simple Colour Palette

When it comes to hardscaping in a French garden, a simple colour palette maintains the aesthetic. Opt for soft hues like whites, blues, pinks, and purples. By choosing these hues, you can replicate the calmness found in traditional French landscapes.

The Spruce suggests that lavender is a must-have colour in a French-style garden. Besides adding it to the structural elements, include it in your flowers as well. Use natural materials for hardscaping elements such as planters and hardscapes. These elements maintain an organic feel that complements the plant colours.

Include Water Features

Water features can enhance the serenity of your garden, giving it an eye-pleasing French vibe. Outdoor fountains are the most popular water feature, not only in the US but across the globe. According to Business Research Insights, the global market size of outdoor fountain markets was an impressive $1.18 billion in 2024. It is projected to grow at an annual rate of 4.3% and touch $1.71 billion by 2033.

Adding a birdbath along with a classic fountain sets up your garden for elegance and beauty. Moreover, the soothing sound of flowing water brings tranquillity and attracts wildlife. If you have enough space, create a small reflecting pool that mirrors the surrounding plants and sky. This element will add depth to your garden design.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common plants used in French gardens?
When it comes to selecting plants for your French garden, you must choose colourful flowers that aren’t too loud. Lavender is a must, and you can also add roses, peonies, and sunflowers. Plant culinary herbs like rosemary and thyme. You can also add boxwoods to give structure to your outdoor space.

How do I maintain symmetry in my garden?
A French garden is all about symmetry in design. Besides investing in a clean design, you can achieve symmetry with a few simple steps. For example, regular pruning of hedges, maintaining neat flower beds, and aligning pathways with focal points can make your garden appear neat and symmetrical.

Can I create a French garden in a small space?
Yes, space constraints should not be a reason to worry if you want to cultivate a French garden in your backyard. In fact, you can transform even a small balcony or patio into a charming French garden. All you have to do is use potted plants and vertical gardening techniques. A careful arrangement of furniture does the rest.

Designing a thriving French garden involves thoughtful planning around layout, plant selection, colour schemes, and water features. You can go a step ahead by adding spaces for relaxation and entertainment. You don’t have to be a professional landscape artist to create a lawn that reflects the elegance of the French countryside. Follow these ideas to have a beautiful one right in your backyard.