The Science Behind Gardening with Color
Let’s get familiar with the color wheel. Color wheels are composed of primary colors – red, yellow and blue – as well as secondary colors – orange, green and violet, with hues in between. Understanding how these colors work together and in combination will help you reach garden success no matter how big or small your space. By recognizing these color relationships, you’ll be able to design the garden of your dreams.
Contrasting (Complementary) Colors
Contrasting colors, also known as complementary colors, are opposite colors. Red and green is an example. If you can imagine, tints and shades of both colors can be arranged to create an interest and depth to the eye. This also happens with our favorite Beacon® Impatiens in hues of red (Bright Red and Red White Mix) against its naturally gorgeous green foliage, colors that are opposite and complementary to each other.
Harmonizing Colors
As you might think, harmonizing colors are those that appear next to each other on the color wheel. A harmonious color scheme may include shades of color within the same hue. Examples include yellow/orange/orange-red; and orange-red/red/red-violet.
Color Schemes
Your garden design could also be inspired by using a color scheme. A monochromatic color scheme uses similar tints and shades. Think Beacon Impatiens in Rose and Violet Shades. Or try an analogous color scheme, using three adjacent colors on the color wheel. For example, Orange, Coral and Salmon varieties would be perfect for a spring garden.
Your dream garden is within reach. By following the science behind the color wheel, you’ll be on the road to garden success.