Everyone knows Rachael Ray can cook, but did you know that she's just as talented in the garden as in the kitchen? The famous chef took to Instagram to share photos of her summer blooms. They're a sight to behold.
Ray's garden idea is a vision in red and purple. The vibrant green space features a patch of grass edged by sprouting red and pink bushes. A pathway of alternatively square and rectangular stones creates the perfect place for walking throughout the yard. The flower beds feature bursts of salvia, black-eyed susans, and poppies. It perfectly frames the gorgeous landspace of towering trees and mountains surrounding the chef's home.
Thom Rutter, master gardener and content editor at Homes & Gardens, explains what makes Ray's garden so special. He states: 'As gardeners, we all want full borders and beds, packed with beautiful blooms that last long into the fall. As Rachael Ray shows, this can be done by cleverly using some of the best perennials and shrubs, ensuring that you maintain interest for as long as possible.'
Options are limitless, but some plants are better choices than others. Rutter states: 'There are many plants to choose from that can fit this brief, but opting for perennials like native rudbeckia (commonly known as black-eyed Susan) or coneflowers is a good idea. Another option is learning how to grow salvias, which are one of my favorite perennials.'
Salvias are a diverse group of plants, so considering your garden color scheme can go a long way in recreating Ray's look. 'There are many different varieties available, ranging in color from yellow to red, pink to purple (as Rachael Ray shows), so you are sure to find a plant to suit your tastes,' says Rutter.
He continues: 'Salvias are native to the Mediterranean, so thrive in sunny spots. Be sure to water, feed and deadhead throughout the summer months, which will help to keep your borders in top shape late into the season.'
Rutter concludes: 'So, if you are looking for flower bed ideas this year, try incorporating some of these long-flowering options that will keep your yard interesting, impactful, and full of color.'
Shop The Look
Bringing your own take on perrenials into the garden is an easy way to recreate Rachel Ray's space. To keep a similar, contrasting style we love the combination of purple salvias and yellow black eyed susans. Flowers from Walmart are high quality at an accessible price point.
These bright perennials are perfect for adding a pop of yellow to your garden.
These beautiful green and purple flowers are beautiful and pair wonderfully with black-eyed susans.
If you are hoping to replicate a similar look in your fall garden, focus first on the heights of the plants. Part of what makes Ray's garden so charming is the variation in height across the garden. From the low, circular shrubs, to the fluffy, reaching salvia, to the towering deciduous trees on the edge of the property, the contrast between the different plants creates a bold, cohesive atmosphere in the outdoor space. Start with the shortest plant you want to include, and work your way up. What will you choose as your short, mid-height, and tallest perennials?
Rachel Ray's garden is a sight to behold, and its beauty will extend long beyond the summer.
