Garden Q&A: Hardscapes and winter events

Q. Could you tell me something about hardscape in the garden, and give me some suggestions for my small Somerville plot of land? Shelby A.S., Somerville

A. Hardscape is a term that refers to the permanent in-organic structures of a landscape such as walkways, patios, retaining walls, arbors, fences, or raised garden beds that are made with hard materials such as bricks, pavers, stone, cement or wood. The Softscape parts of the landscape are the living materials such as plants, grass, shrubs and trees.

Hardscaping helps to define the space. It adds interest, solid form, structure and contrasting texture. It also adds winter interest to the garden. Hardscapes like fountains, birdbaths, statues, benches or large rocks can be used as a focal point in the garden, giving ones eye a place to rest.

For any sized garden, particularly in an urban setting that has so much paved area already, you need to plan very carefully:

Consider the landscaping. Will you be hardscaping the entire area of your yard or just a part of it?

Research draining issues. Consider how the drainage will be affected with hardscape in place. Design the water runoff so it can be captured and used on site.

If you have children that will play in the yard, plan your hardscape with them in mind to keep them engaged in the landscape. Put in a small pond (not too deep) with fish, position large flat rocks or sections of a felled tree in the garden for hopping and climbing.

Create a focal point that your eye will travel to, such as a fountain, small weeping tree, or sculpture.

Q. What can we do in the Boston area that is garden related to help us feed our winter non-gardening woes? Todd & Phil, Belmont

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Garden Q&A: Hardscapes and winter events