MEEKS: Correct use of color can have positive effect on landscape
As I am writing this article, outside it is cold and raining. Today is one of those days when I would have loved just to stay in bed where it was nice and warm.
To help brighten my mood, I would like to discuss color in the landscape and how it can be utilized.
The use of color in your landscape can be both positive and negative, depending on if it is used correctly or not. A landscape that is full of colorful plants is not only interesting, but can draw your eye to certain focal points.
If you remember your basic art class in school, there are primary and secondary colors. The primary colors are red, blue and yellow. The secondary colors, green, purple and orange, are made by mixing the primary colors. Reds and yellows are considered warm colors, and blues and greens are cool colors. Colors can also influence how we feel. Warm colors seem to excite us, while cool colors relax us.
Color also has value. Whites, grays and black can be added to change the value of the color. Our eye is drawn to tints and shades, especially when they are planted closely together. Adding tints and shades to a color makes the planting more complex than just using one simple color.
When designing your garden, the natural landscape may provide good inspiration before beginning. There are several schemes to consider. The first is the monochromatic. This color scheme uses one color in various tints and shades to promote a harmonious effect.
The next is the analogous. The analogous uses either warm or cool colors that blend well together. The complementary color scheme uses colors from opposite ends of the color wheel. The colors complement each other and add to the intensity of the opposite color.
The primary color scheme uses the three primary colors. They are often seen on landscapes designed for children because they are bright and energetic.
One of the most difficult color schemes to achieve successfully is riotous. This color scheme uses bold combinations. This scheme is usually very energetic and visually stimulating.
A pastel color scheme uses pastel colors to create a soft landscape.
When considering color for your landscape, think beyond flowers and look to foliage as well. Many plants have variegated leaves, as well as a variety of colors. It is also important to think about the season and plant for some color year-round. Plants flower during different seasons. Some plants are evergreens, and some plants have interesting bark color.
If you want to discuss landscape design and are interested in coming up with a do-it-yourself plan for your yard, join our Advance Landscape Design Class on Feb. 11 at 6 p.m. in our multipurpose room. The cost is $10, and the registration deadline is Feb. 4.
DATES TO REMEMBER
Jan. 18: Office closed
Jan. 19: Green Team Recertification Training, Perry
MIDDLE GEORGIA PRODUCTION MEETINGS
Jan. 25: Forage/Hay Production, Perry, 6 p.m.
Feb. 4: Corn Production, Oglethorpe, noon
Feb. 9: Pecan Production, Perry, 10 a.m.
Feb. 17: Peanut Production, Oglethorpe, noon
Feb. 25: Peanut Production Perry, noon
For more information, contact Houston County Extension at 478-987-2028 or visit the office at 801 Main St., Perry. Office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday. Visit www.caes.uga.edu/extension/houston for more news about your local Extension office.