Garden designing isn’t an exact science and the principles applied possibly called by various names. The three categories below contain the basic elements that, while combined together, constitute the normally accepted version of good garden designing. Keep in mind that garden designing is personal and rules are meant to be broken.

Order/Balance/Proportion
The basic structure of the garden. Order could be obtained through symmetry, as in a formal garden, through repetition of plants or colors or through balancing bold or bright features with a comparable weight of fine or muted features (generally in a 1/3 to 2/3 ratio).

Harmony or Unity
Once the parts of the garden work together as a whole. This can be accomplished by using a limited color pallette, repetition of plants, colors or structures and a clear focal point. Themes gardens have built in unity, like: all white gardens, butterfly gardens and cottage gardens.

Flow, Transition or Rhythm
Keeping the eye moving and directing it where you want it to look Gradual changes in height and color prevent the eye from making a sudden stop. Transition can also be used to create the illusion of a larger space by creating depth as smaller plants flow back into taller plants.