JEKYLL 11 | Colour Graded Borders

Gertrude Jekyll’s approach to colour in her herbaceous borders was strongly influenced by colour theory, especially the use of adjacent colours. These are colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel, such as blue, blue-purple, and purple. Planting schemes with adjacent colours often appear natural, as they reflect patterns commonly seen in nature.

Jekyll often used harmonious colour schemes, blending neighbouring colours like yellows, oranges, and reds to create smooth, natural transitions. By placing these colours next to each other, she achieved a gentle gradation of tones that brought continuity and balance to her designs. This approach added depth and movement, with each plant’s colour complementing its neighbours, resulting in a cohesive yet lively display without harsh contrasts.

JEKYLL 11 | Colour Graded Borders

Gertrude Jekyll’s approach to colour in her herbaceous borders was strongly influenced by colour theory, especially the use of adjacent colours. These are colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel, such as blue, blue-purple, and purple. Planting schemes with adjacent colours often appear natural, as they reflect patterns commonly seen in nature.

Jekyll often used harmonious colour schemes, blending neighbouring colours like yellows, oranges, and reds to create smooth, natural transitions. By placing these colours next to each other, she achieved a gentle gradation of tones that brought continuity and balance to her designs. This approach added depth and movement, with each plant’s colour complementing its neighbours, resulting in a cohesive yet lively display without harsh contrasts.

Colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel are called adjacent colours or colour gradations.

Here are some examples of adjacent colour schemes in gardens. Can you find the colours on the colour wheel above?

Using the colour wheel as a guide, arrange the plants in an adjacent colour scheme to complete this Jekyll border design. Start with magenta on the left.

Colours that are next to each other on the colour wheel are called adjacent colours or colour gradations.

Here are some examples of adjacent colour schemes in gardens. Can you find the colours on the colour wheel above?

Using the colour wheel as a guide, arrange the plants in an adjacent colour scheme to complete this Jekyll border design. Start with magenta on the left.