loose parts for grownups - L.A. Native Plant Connection, LLC

Small logs as loose parts in the garden

Small logs used to lay out paths

Here, small logs are used to lay out paths and borders for planting bed areas while plants are still small, or before plants are added.

Logs as loose parts in the garden

A log as a side table

We set a few logs on end as little side tables around our fire pit.

Pavers and wood planks as loose parts in the garden

Pavers and wood planks as pathways

Here pavers and wood planks are used to make paths in the herb garden. I like to use things I can move or use again later, and I really like wood if I have spare wood looking to be used because it decomposes slowly and adds to the soil. (Always use untreated wood.) Here, thyme… Continue reading Pavers and wood planks as loose parts in the garden

Logs as loose parts in the garden

Logs as space dividers, seating and end tables

A long log is set as a space divider between the seating area under the tree and the sunny area near the street. It’s big enough that in a pinch it could be extra (short-term) seating. Between the chairs is a short length of a much wider log. We use it as a little side… Continue reading Logs as loose parts in the garden

Half whiskey barrels as loose parts

Half whiskey barrels as a table base and as a fountain container

When we found this stone table top at a yard sale, we put it on an upside down half whiskey barrel we had handy to make a big table for our seating area. We’re also using a half whiskey barrel as a fountain. In the back, black sage is growing in a half whiskey barrel,… Continue reading Half whiskey barrels as loose parts

Loose parts in the garden

Loose parts are things that can be used in open-ended ways. In the garden could be: Loose parts are things you can rearrange and play with — things you can use to sketch out your garden, and that you can move over time as your garden changes and develops.