 | A courtyard garden in the pleasing Mexican tradition blends beauty with functionality. Not only are such hidden gardens lovely to behold, they serve as the ideal place where families can meet and relax. The following article discusses how you might incorporate elements of a Mexican courtyard garden into your own design to enchant family members and guests alike.
Whether you opt for formal Spanish Colonial style or a country hacienda look, there are many ways to add an authentic Mexican flair to your garden space. From native Mexican plants to mosaic water elements to Spanish and Mexican ornaments, there is a host of ways to transform your garden with plenty of options to suit any budget. The first ideal of a Mexican garden to remember is that it is a living space, so with that in mind, people are at the core of every design.
In a Mexican courtyard garden, one might find what essentially amounts to an outdoor room. There may be fountains and comfortable seating, lush flora and shade from the sun. There may be a space for cooking as well as a space for dining. Keep in mind what you will be using your garden for whether it be personal relaxation or for entertaining guests—its purpose should be woven into the design for true functionality.
When it comes to what plants to choose for your garden, you may be quite limited in your choice because of climate and various conditions. If you live in a cold climate and still want a touch of Mexico in your garden, you’ll simply have to do with out palm and banana trees and incorporate other species. In such cases, you may have to rely a bit more on Spanish ornaments to achieve your look. However, if your climate will support some native plants—so much the better for true authenticity!
Consider a wide range of succulents and cacti contained in terracotta pots or brightly painted containers. Think in terms of bright green broad leaves and large colorful blooms. Ficus trees and ferns add plenty of green foliage. Moss covered stones or lichen covered steps add rustic Mexican charm to the scenery. A bright flowerbed of impatiens makes a colorful splash. Of course, there are many desert and tropical plants that lend themselves to the character of a Mexican garden. Gardeners should select according to their climate and how much care they are able to give individual plants.
One great way to add Mexican appeal is to use containers that might be found in a Mexican courtyard garden. Clay and stone pots may be carved or painted with Aztec designs. Using dried gourds or conch shells as containers is a way to blend natural elements into the design. Consider using large jugs and woven baskets to contain plants you want to use as focal points. Also, employ trellises and pergolas when possible to create overhangs for climbers and vines.
Water is frequently found in the Mexican garden. From large swimming pool to simple wall fountains, water elements add cool tranquility to any space. There is a wide range of fountains that may be purchased and installed in your garden. Wall fountains may be installed in your walls given the appropriate conditions, but stand alone models which are easy to operate are also available online and from local garden centers. When incorporating one into your design, look for those that employ Aztec or Spanish designs. Hand painted Talavera tiles may be added for a formal look. Keep in mind the traditional Spanish Colonial use of blue and white as a theme. Incorporate stone and even mosaic tile-work in the Mexican design.
If space permits, a garden pond is always an excellent way to enhance any garden. Such ponds should incorporate the flora of Mexico whenever possible. The growth in and around your pond could include canna and tiger lilies, ornamental grasses like various rushes and Egyptian papyrus, water hyacinth and water lilies. For a real taste of paradise, try growing fruit if space permits and why not include a waterfall into your garden pond for a real touch of the exotic. If you do plenty of entertaining, a swimming pool is always a welcome attraction for guests.
Besides the natural elements you choose for your courtyard garden, the ornaments and various props you choose for it may provide lots of Mexican authenticity. Instead of a plain fountain, choose an iguana that spouts water into the air or a traditional Incan sundial that sits in the center of the garden. Statues with Mexican motifs and bird baths loaded with brilliant floral displays are also distinct ways to incorporate Mexico into your garden. Think wrought iron gates and brightly colored walls in marigold shades.
Finally, patios laden with bars, grills and furniture are an inviting way to entertain guests with plenty of fresh fruit, tropical drinks and Mexican cuisine. Furniture may be natural and rustic or covered with bright fabric. An iron candelabra for the table spread with a Mexican blanket is a simple way to add a bit of rustic Mexico to your landscape.
Woven placemats for the table, metal-stamped lanterns, somber stonework, authentic tapestries, pewter roosters, pottery, native masks, earthenware jugs and swinging hammocks to nap in may also add extra appeal. The options are endless and there is an ornament to fit any budget plan. For more ideas, research Mexican décor online or visit your local library to check out Mexican art and culture.
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