Monroe County Master Gardener Association

article and photos by Gail K.

Feb. 15,2020:
Our speaker for the assoc. meeting was Linda W. A certified MG member, Linda has a professional focus in interior design.

Her program focus emphasized using other characteristics, not just the “flower,” of plants when designing our gardens.

The members were attentive as Linda skillfully described how using the foliage could enhance season long interest in our gardens.


Linda spoke to the importance of considering all aspects of a plant before “choosing” the right one. READ THE TAGS!! Look at the shape, color, texture & form of the foliage.

Using photos of her own garden to give examples-Linda’s talents in this field were visually obvious; we all enjoyed seeing the impact foliage could make in all aspects of our gardens.

Linda covered a lot of information-she went through the types of specific plants she finds most valuable based on their foliage to bring contrast and color to her garden.

Creating gardens are like writing a musical; we need rhythm. Blending or contrasting; use color to “move the eye” from one area to the next. A must-consider the undersides of leaves. Air currents & other movement
brings exposure and an unexpected variable.

With careful planning, we can all experience the heavenly notes of a garden symphony….the only thing left; to sit back & listen.