Over the past 30 years, island beds have become a popular way to add color, texture, and height to a landscape. It adds versatility to the standard square perennial border and can add a lot of interest to the front yard. Love them or hate them, Flower Islands are here to stay.

Most of the island beds are placed away from the foundation of the house and are used as a prominent feature in a central area of the lawn where the island can be viewed from all sides. Typically there is themed planting in an island bed. Grouping plants on the island that have similar sun and water needs reduces maintenance and helps maintain a more cohesive look. Below is a list of “themed” gardens that make good island beds.