James Scott’s tips for creating a naturalistic garden

James Scott’s tips for creating a naturalistic garden: Driven by a growing focus on sustainability, biodiversity, and creating spaces that offer environmental benefits, naturalistic gardens are becoming increasingly popular.

James Scott, founder of The Garden Company – winner of Garden Design Company Over £250,000 Turnover at this year’s Pro Landscaper Business Awards – shares his top design principles for creating a naturalistic garden.

1. Start with a restrained plant palette

Less is more. Begin with a carefully curated selection of plant types that work in harmony.

Limiting your plant palette allows for stronger visual rhythm and cohesion. Repeating key plants throughout the garden creates flow and a more immersive experience.

2. Use contrasting shapes and forms

Think beyond colour – consider how plant shapes work together. Use contrasting forms to add interest and structure.

This contrast adds depth and energy to the planting, even when colour is subdued.

3. Layer for long-term interest

Plant in layers to maximise space and seasonal appeal. Each layer can take the spotlight at different times of year.

For example, underplant herbaceous perennials with woodland bulbs like snowdrops or cyclamen. These will emerge early in the year, before taller plants wake up.

Find out more about creating a naturalistic garden with James Scott in The Garden Company’s latest blog.

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