By April Case, Ridgecrest Garden Center

I hope you are enjoying the beautiful transition into the summer season.

With the arrival of summer in the South, many of us are spending more time outdoors. There is nothing quite like the tranquility of a summer evening—watching lightning bugs dance across the yard and enjoying a cool breeze after a warm day. To make these moments even more special, consider creating a “moon garden” that is just as captivating at night as it is during the day.

Here are a few simple ways to design a peaceful and inviting evening landscape:

Incorporate White Blooms
Adding pale-colored perennials, trees, and shrubs—such as gardenias, white hydrangeas, primroses, white irises, and yarrow—creates a soft glow in the evening light while attracting beneficial nighttime pollinators.

Choose Reflective Foliage
Plants like dusty miller, fountain grass, lamb’s ear, artemisia, and licorice plant offer silvery tones and unique textures that beautifully catch and reflect moonlight.

Add Subtle Lighting
Low-voltage landscape lighting along pathways and gathering spaces can provide a gentle glow, enhance safety, and create a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Finally, don’t forget a comfortable chair or cozy seating area where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of your nighttime garden. Whether you’re entertaining friends or simply unwinding after a long day, a thoughtfully designed moon garden can become one of the most peaceful spaces in your landscape.

If you would like assistance planning or designing your own garden retreat, stop by Ridgecrest Garden Center. I would be happy to help you select the perfect plants and create a landscape you’ll enjoy both day and night.

Happy Gardening!