Using Gazing Balls as Garden Decorations
Master Gardener
Gazing balls, also
known as gazing orbs, have been incorporated into both formal and informal
gardens for centuries. Gazing balls are typically seen tucked alongside pretty
flowers and fountains or grouped together as an artistic garden feature.
Gazing
Balls in the Garden
Gazing balls come in
so many colors and styles that they suit just about any garden setting, from
rustic to elegant and everything in between. Here are a few ways that you can
incorporate a gazing ball into your outdoor space.
Tucked
Among Flowers
Gazing balls add
height, texture, color and interest when tucked alongside flowers in your
garden. Pick a stand and ball style and color that best suits the garden where
you wish to place the ball. Be sure that you accommodate for the mature size of
your plants. You do not want the plants to hide the ball, but they look lovely
hugging the stand or hanging behind the ball.
Grouped
Together
Several different
sized gazing orbs grouped together make a dramatic impact on any garden space.
Purchase stands in varying heights and choose ball colors that coordinate with
your existing landscape. Place balls in a location where they will be most
enjoyed. Use a low voltage spotlight so your gazing ball group can be enjoyed
when the sun goes down.
Beside
a Water Feature
Gazing balls and
water features complement each other nicely. Frequently seen together, this
pair makes a stunning display in any garden setting. The light and water
reflect off of the ball and produce a dramatic effect that adds to the beauty
of the ball. If you have room, place a couple of gazing balls next to your pond
or fountain and landscape around them.
Hung
from Trees
Smaller versions of
pedestal sitting gazing balls, known as faerie balls, hung from trees adds a
dramatic effect to any outdoor space. Hang several of these smaller balls from
heavy wire and hooks from a sturdy branch. Placing an uplight on the balls will
allow their beauty to shine at night.
By
the Front Door
Welcome guests to
your house with a beautiful gazing ball perched on an artistic stand. If you
have enough room, place one on either side of the door. Be sure to place the
balls far enough away from the door so that they will not get accidentally
knocked off of their stands.
Gazing
Balls in Themed Gardens
Gazing balls are
easily incorporated into, and can be used to help define, particular unique
garden themes. The type of ball that you choose and how you display your ball
will convey your chosen theme.
Rustic
or Country Garden
To make your rustic
garden really shine, try placing three or five glass gazing balls of different
sizes and colors into a rusty old wagon and setting it in your garden. This
creative mix of country pops when you add the gazing balls to the wagon. Other
props, such as old farm equipment or even garden tools, are easily embellished
with gazing balls. Place an old pitchfork in the ground on an angle and set a
rusted red gazing ball at the bottom of the fork for another eye-catching
garden display.
The key to using
gazing balls in a rustic or country themed garden is to think outside of the
box. Look around for old milk crates, tools, boxes, old bird baths, and other
props to use with your gazing ball and forego the "traditional"
pedestal arrangement.
Elegant
or Formal Garden
The original use of
gazing balls began in a formal fashion. Gazing balls are quite at home in any
elegant garden setting. In a formal garden setting, it is important to pay
attention to selecting a refined pedestal and making your gazing ball or group
of balls a focal point. When placed in a group, the balls will have a more
dramatic effect. For a modern and elegant feel, try using copper or bronze
balls. When placed next to a reflection pond or incorporated into garden
sculpture, gazing balls add a fresh edge to any formal garden.
Zen
Garden
Gazing balls add a
dramatic impact to any tranquil Zen garden setting. The cool metal of a
polished silver gazing ball blends well with the natural elements in the garden
and can be placed directly on pebbles or rocks in a medium to large garden or
on a tray in a small garden. Try filling a metal tray with a little bit of
water and placing a silver or copper gazing ball in the center of the tray for
a dazzling centerpiece in your Zen setting.
The key to a Zen
garden is simplicity; try to avoid groups of gazing balls or bulky stands.
Gazing
Orb Care
Gazing balls are
highly fragile and care must be taken when setting them up or moving them.
- Make sure that you place the stand on a level surface, smoothing it out with a rake if necessary.
- Take care not to knock into the stand while working in your garden.
- If you expect high winds or other severe weather, it is best to store your gazing orb in a safe place. For those in the northern regions, it is a good idea to store your gazing ball inside for the winter.
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