As winter frosts settle, the longing for the whimsical charm of warmer months grows stronger. The cottagecore trend, synonymous with vintage charm and natural beauty, is making a seasonal comeback—this time extending beyond interior spaces. Recent data reveals a 76% increase in searches for cottagecore, with ‘cottage garden’ searches rising by 68%.
Craig Wilson, gardening expert and founder of Gardeners Dream, shares his expert advice on curating the perfect cottagecore garden. From plants to furniture, here’s how to turn your garden into a dreamy, pastoral escape.
Plants and Flowers
“The essence of a cottagecore garden lies in its cosy, whimsical aesthetic,” explains Craig. To achieve this look:
Native Plants: Choose UK-native plants like Columbine, Yarrow, Foxgloves, Geraniums, and Campanulas for a traditional British feel.
Soft Colours: Opt for pastel shades—think lavender, hollyhocks, and climbing roses in muted pinks, purples, and blues, blended with wild grasses and shrubs.
Purposeful Wildness: Aim for a balance between curated and wild by planting in clusters, creating a patchwork effect. Add bursts of height with climbers or dwarf fruit trees.
Attract Wildlife: Incorporate plants that attract bees and butterflies to bring life to your garden.
Design
Cottagecore design revolves around rustic charm and natural textures:
Paths and Borders: Use stepping stone paths with rugged stones like limestone or sandstone. Line borders with cobbles or rocks, laid out in an imperfect manner for a rustic feel.
Sectioned Spaces: Define areas of the garden with natural stones to create a cohesive yet quaint look.
Furniture and Decor
“Furniture and decor are key to creating a soft and inviting atmosphere,” Craig advises:
Whimsical Touches: Add gnomes, stone bird baths, or hand-painted pots for vintage charm.
Natural Materials: Opt for furniture made of natural materials such as wooden rattan.
Patterns and Textiles: Incorporate ditsy florals or stripes through cushions and tablecloths.
Lighting: String lights with warm bulbs or layered candles create a cosy, glowing ambience for evenings outdoors.
Create Your Dream Cottagecore Garden
With Craig Wilson’s expert advice, transforming your garden into a cottagecore haven is within reach. Whether you're planting native flowers, laying rustic paths, or decorating with vintage-inspired furnishings, every detail will help you embrace the trend in its fullest form.
So, as frosts turn to spring blooms, why not let your garden reflect the pastoral charm of cottagecore?
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