October 15, 2009

Tips for fall garden decorating

FISHERSVILLE—Fall decorating can be much more than just a carved pumpkin on the doorstep. In fact, it’s one of the fastest-growing trends in home outdoor design. Augusta County horticulturist Mark Viette said autumn is second only to Christmas for seasonal decorations.

“We like simple displays that are open and pleasing to the eye. And how you can accomplish that is repetition,” Viette said. “Just like we like to accomplish in our garden designs, fall decorations should have smooth, flowing lines and softness of design.”

Viette likes to use dozens of gourds and pumpkins in his displays, usually with a similar color scheme. He is also fond of including antique items or old farm and garden implements like old screen doors, weathered furniture, pieces of old farm machinery or bird houses.

Another idea to consider is mixing outdoor floral displays with fall decorations, especially in large containers. Many gourds can be dried and preserved with a coat of lacquer so they can be used indoors or for several years outdoors.

“The other thing I recommend you do is, if you really like one of your displays, take a picture of it so you can duplicate this year after year,” Viette said.

Contact Viette at 540-476-0156 or Norm Hyde, VFBF video producer, at 804-290-1146.