Martha Stewart is known for her ability to turn any outdoor space into a timeless, elegant garden that feels both practical and beautiful. Her signature style blends order with creativity, creating gardens that are lush, functional, and filled with charm. The good news is you don’t need a sprawling estate to capture her look. With thoughtful design choices and attention to detail, you can style your own garden the Martha way — no matter the size.
Start with Structure
Martha’s gardens always begin with a sense of structure. Defined paths, neat borders, and organized layouts provide a strong foundation. Stone walkways, gravel paths, or simple stepping stones help create direction and flow. Even in small gardens, adding structure ensures the space feels intentional and polished.
Embrace Symmetry and Balance
Symmetry is a signature element in Martha’s garden design. Matching rows of plants, evenly spaced hedges, or identical planters on either side of an entryway all reflect her approach. Balance creates a sense of order while allowing the plants themselves to shine. Even if your space is casual, symmetry can make it feel more refined.
Layer Plants for Depth
Instead of single rows, Martha layers her gardens with tall plants at the back, medium-height flowers or shrubs in the middle, and low-growing varieties in the front. This creates depth and visual interest while ensuring every plant is visible. Layering also mimics the natural growth of landscapes, giving your garden a lush yet organized feel.
Martha Garden
+42Mix Beauty and Function
One of Martha’s greatest talents is blending ornamental and edible plants. Roses, lavender, and peonies may share space with herbs, vegetables, or fruit trees. This combination makes the garden practical while still beautiful. A row of basil next to blooming marigolds is both useful and charming.
Use Signature Plant Choices
Certain plants are staples in Martha’s gardens. Boxwood hedges, climbing roses, hydrangeas, and espaliered fruit trees often appear in her designs. These plants are timeless, versatile, and elegant. Incorporating a few of these signature choices can instantly give your garden a Martha-inspired look.
Focus on Outdoor Rooms
Martha often designs gardens as if they are outdoor “rooms.” A dining corner shaded by a pergola, a reading nook surrounded by flowers, or a vegetable bed framed with neat borders each serve as defined areas. Dividing your space into functional zones makes it feel more cohesive and purposeful.
Pay Attention to Details
Details are where Martha’s style truly shines. Terracotta pots filled with herbs, lanterns along pathways, or neatly labeled garden beds all add subtle polish. Small touches, such as monogrammed napkins for outdoor dining or carefully chosen tableware, make the space feel personal and curated.
Add Seasonal Interest
Martha’s gardens evolve with the seasons. Tulips and daffodils in spring, roses in summer, chrysanthemums in fall, and evergreens in winter keep the landscape lively year-round. Rotating plants seasonally ensures your garden never looks static or dull.
Incorporate Water and Lighting
Fountains, birdbaths, and small ponds often feature in Martha’s gardens, adding movement and tranquility. Lighting also plays a major role. String lights, lanterns, or soft ground lighting highlight the garden’s beauty after sunset. Together, these elements create ambiance and make the garden enjoyable at any hour.
Keep It Organized
Order and tidiness are essential in Martha’s outdoor spaces. Well-pruned hedges, weed-free paths, and organized tools all contribute to the overall impression. A tidy garden not only looks better but is also easier to care for. Martha’s style proves that elegance comes from consistency and attention to upkeep.
FAQs About Martha-Style Gardens
What makes a garden look Martha-inspired?
Defined structure, layered planting, a balance of ornamental and edible plants, and thoughtful details are all key.
Do I need a large space to style a garden like Martha?
No. Even small patios or yards can reflect her style with symmetrical layouts, container gardens, and seasonal accents.
What plants should I start with for a Martha look?
Boxwood, roses, hydrangeas, lavender, and espaliered fruit trees are classics in her designs.
How important are outdoor furnishings?
Very. Martha’s gardens often include seating areas, dining setups, and décor that make the space feel like an extension of the home.
How do I maintain a Martha-style garden long term?
Regular pruning, seasonal planting, and attention to detail keep the garden polished and inviting year-round.