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Be careful always to choose garden sculpture that is in keeping with the architecture of the house and general surroundings, and with the overall atmosphere you are trying to achieve in the garden. For example, a small statue of a pig or a cat, say, which is definitely rustic and informal in character, will look out of place against the formal outline of a grand, dignified house. Such a building calls for a more formal treatment and demands a grand, impressive statue that is more in keeping with its style. The most dramatic results can be obtained by positioning a sculpture at the end of a vista. Alternatively, it can be placed at the sharp bend of a path, or at the junction of two paths, so that the piece can be seen from both directions. Sited centrally at the back of an area, it can act as a focal point, but set asymmetrically to offset the curve of a flower bed, the object will create a more relaxed and informal effect. For greater formality, doorways and stairs can be flanked by sculpture. Sculpture can also be used as a counterpoint to a particularly bold plant, or it can be used to distract the eye from an unsightly feature such as a garbage can or a compost pile.

GENERALLY SPEAKING, decorating your garden is a matter of personal taste and your choice of ornament will create a garden unique to you. Whatever you decide on, it should look good in its own right and be appropriate to the setting, either standing out as a focal point or merging with the surroundings. Choose it carefully: one well-positioned statue will look far better than several pieces dotted around at random. There are many different Ornaments to consider, including statuary and other sculptures, urns and containers, and sundials and bird feeders. Topiary, the art of carving hedges into a variety of shapes, can also be seen as a type of garden Decoration but it is a specialized skill. Most sculpture benefits from a backdrop such as a hedge or wall, perhaps set against a niche for more of an impact. Some look better raised above the ground on plinths or at the top of a flight of steps. Urns and the more decorative containers also tend to look their best when raised above ground level, standing on some kind of pedestal.

Of one thing be sure, your garden should be your very own. It should reflect you and your family and your way of life. Don't merely imitate others. Plant the kind of garden that pleases you, one that provides privacy if you wish, one more open if you prefer not to be closed in, one full of color or one in which green predominates, one that contains few kinds of plants or a collector's type garden rich with variety. There are endless variations you can play. Choose the one that suits your site, purse and inclination or, if these are incompatible, at least a satisfactory compromise. No matter what type garden you develop, your work is not finished when the plantings are installed. To secure good results intelligent care and timely attention are needed through the years.