Flower Bed

Flower Bed 

an element of landscaping, a symmetrical garden planned in a circle, rectangle, or oval and raised above the adjoining paths and lawns. Flower beds first appeared in the 19th century. They consist of annual and perennial flowering plants, parterre plants, and, sometimes, potted evergreen plants. A decorative statue or sculptural group, an urn, or a small fountain is often placed in the center. Because large-scale free landscape gardening is currently popular, flower beds of the traditional type are used only for small gardens.

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Flower Bed 

a plot of land planted with ornamental flowering plants to decorate gardens, parks, and the front of buildings.

Flower beds include ornamental annual, biennial, and perennial flowering plants, as well as low variously colored foliage plants. A parterre design makes use of lawn areas as a background for the flowering plants. The plants in a flower bed are chosen for the biological traits and ornamental properties of the individual species. For ornamental purposes each flower bed should consist of a small number of species selected for harmonious blend of flower coloration and shape, leaf shape and size, and time and duration of bloom. Flowers that have ceased blooming are often replaced with new plants.

Flower beds may be strictly geometric (square, round, rectangular) or free in form. The size and shape of a flower bed and the selection of plants included should correspond to the purpose for which the flower bed is designed, the natural conditions, and the topography. Flower beds are often decorated with sculpture, fountains, and other small architectural elements. It is possible to make a flower clock by planting flowers that open and close at specific times of day.