Zooey Deschanel is known for coloring outside the lines, and the same applies to her choice of flowers. An Instagram post reveals the bold, purple roses in Deschanel and her husband, Johnathan Scott's garden. Even though we're creeping into fall, the flowers look as full and vibrant as ever.
Their refreshing rose planting is a masterclass in cottage garden ideas. The bold and romantic flowers lend an unexpected warmth to the outdoor space. They sit in perfect opposition to the rich green of the surrounding plants and perfectly complement the more conventional pink and yellow roses. Next to the sweet white gazebo in the couple's backyard, it creates the feel of a traditional English garden in the middle of California.
The choice of purple plants or another expected shade is a great way to maintain a classic feel while infusing personality. Though Deschanel has planted roses, one of the most beloved plants, the purple feels distinctly her. Try taking inspiration from a signature color, your favorite item of clothing, or go to the plant center and see what strikes your fancy. There's more than just one way to design a beautiful garden, and an unorthodox pop of color is a fun way to make it more interesting.
Further, her plant choice is ideal for emphasizing the English garden feel of her outdoor space. Thom Rutter, master gardener and gardens content editor at Homes & Gardens states: 'Roses are a classic cottage garden plant. Whether you opt to grow miniature roses, climbing roses or shrub roses, these romantic blooms are always an impactful addition to any yard.'
If you choose to go the way of Deshchanel and plant roses, care is just as important as deciding on the right plants. First, consider the right place to plant your roses. Rutter advises: 'In terms of growing roses, always provide as much sunshine as possible, ideally in a spot with 6-8 hours of direct sun and preferably in a sheltered corner of the yard.' We can see this in Deschanel's garden, where one of the sunniest spots in the space has been chosen to display her plants.
Pruning is also of utmost importance in rose care. Rutter suggests: 'Through the spring and summer, deadheading roses is an essential garden task that will prolong the floral display. As soon as the petals fade and fall, simply snip the stem to prevent the plant from expending energy on seed production. If you continue deadheading during the growing season, blooms will keep coming, even late into the season, as Zooey Deschanel shows.' Flowers all year round? Yes please!
Your roses can only be as healthy as the tools you use. Rutter's top recommendation for the best pruning sheers is this one-handed set from Felco. They're affordable, stylish, and highly functional to last you for years
When it comes to planting your own garden, Deschanel's outdoor space is a reminder to plant to the beat of your own drummer. Don't be scared of unexpected planting combinations, and don't be nervous to bring in non-traditional colors, even if you are going for a more traditional look.
For more rose pruning essentials, Rutter also recommends these pieces below.
These Felco pruning shears have hardened blades for effortless trimming in your yard, making light work of tough rose pruning jobs.
This Felco sharpening stone is essential for the sharpening of your pruning shears which can quickly blunt during the busy growing season.
This garden litter bag is used to deal with a large amount of light garden garbage, such as fallen leaves and weeds.
Gardening is an art, and a true artist uses ever color in the rainbow. Just don't forget to plant intelligently, prune, and garden with your heart.
