Form

Form in garden design refers to the shape of objects in the landscape. Form is what you see when first looking at a border from a distance – the shape of the trees and shrubs on the skyline. Every plant has a distinct habit, a unique shape and size which develops and changes as the plant matures. Sometimes it's the natural form you're seeking from a plant and of course this can be very beautiful, but you can also manipulate form in a design to create specific shapes and produce something truly dramatic. I had to share this - it's the gardens of Sudeley Castle in Gloucestershire which I visited today and where they give a masterclass in form expressed through topiary and the views of the landscape beyond. Stunning!