How to Create a French Country Garden in a Small Space

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Do you have a small space to garden in? Do you want to create a romantic, fragrant, and beautiful outdoor space to spend afternoons and evenings enjoying the ambiance? Gardening is in my blood, and this spring, I’m going to create a French Country garden in a small space. Let’s work together to create a plan that makes it happen!

Why A French Country Garden in a small space?

• When done right, its charm and romantic style invite the senses to linger and enjoy the season.
• A small space is the perfect place to create the French Country Style in a short growing season.
•  Budget-friendly: A small space garden requires fewer key elements, such as plants, seating, and vintage pieces.

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Choose Your Space for a French Country Garden

Will you be using containers or planting in the ground? Once you have decided the answer to this question, we can go on with the next steps. You are on your way to creating a French Country Garden in a small space.

*Personal Tip- I have a partially shaded garden room where I want to create a section for a French Country Garden. I am using mostly potted plants because this area will be dug up next year to expand the pergola. These are my parameters. Take note of your garden’s limitations, such as sunlight availability or future renovation plans, and keep these in mind as you begin planning.

Choose your Plants

This is the most fun part of the project; however, planning your space has to come first.

• Focus on classic French Country plants, such as lavender, rosemary, roses, and boxwood. These plants provide the traditional French Country vibe in a variety of colors.
• Opt for perennials to create an effortless, natural look. Especially trailing perennials, such as mints and other herbs.
• Utilize climbing plants, such as roses or clematis, to maximize vertical space. There are so many plants that are annuals that can give you the sense of a French Country Garden on a budget.
• Do you want to grow lavender in your garden?
• Even just a chair in a little corner can give you the feel of a French Country Garden with just a few vintage accessories.

We have a very informational post to help you be successful:

How to grow lavender for a true French Garden

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*As a small business we often use links to share products we use but don’t sell. We earn a small commission on any items you purchase but it doesn’t cost you any more. We will always identify these items and be assured these are items we use in our work too!

The Decorating Begins: Incorporate Rustic Elements

As you create a French Country Garden in a Small Space, you will learn quite a bit by trial and error, so why not keep a Garden Journal?

• Add vintage or weathered planters (terracotta, galvanized buckets, wooden crates).
• Use wrought iron or distressed wood furniture. Buy used at yard sales or Facebook Marketplace.
• You can include stone or gravel pathways for an authentic touch. I only have a small space and I don’t want to dig it up again, so I am putting down cardboard and then wood chips for my paths

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Create that garden easily with this Arch Arbor, by adding just a chair, you have your space completely defined.

Using Containers & Vertical Gardening

• Maximize small spaces with potted plants and window boxes.
• Train climbing plants on trellises, arbors, or walls to maximize their growth and support.
• Layer heights with tall plants in the background and cascading flowers in the foreground.
• In a very small space, large galvanized water containers can be used to create a lush container garden.

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Make the Most of Your Space: Create a Cozy Seating Area

• Add a small bistro table and chairs for a charming French café feel.
• Use soft linen cushions and a simple outdoor rug. (only if the space is undercover)
• Position seating to enjoy morning coffee or evening wine, surrounded by greenery.

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You can’t beat these square planters for a French Country Small Space Garden!

If Space Allows, Add Subtle Decor & Finishing Touches

• Incorporate garden statues, birdbaths, or aged pottery.
• Use soft, muted colors like creams, blues, and warm grays.
• Place a vintage watering can or lantern for a relaxed, inviting look.
• Add string lights to create a wonderful romantic evening getaway area!

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We Can Do This

Whenever we start a project, the overwhelming nature of the task is daunting. Break it down into smaller projects.