Gardenbite: Color Theory in the Garden | #GoodGrowing

Take your landscape from random to remarkable. In this Gardenbite episode, Illinois Extension horticulture educator Emily Swihart explores how color theory can help you create a more cohesive, attractive, and intentional garden. Learn the difference between analogous color schemes that create calm, harmonious plantings and complementary color combinations that deliver bold contrast and visual impact. From choosing a favorite plant as your design anchor to selecting flowers and foliage that work together, Emily shares practical tips for using color with confidence. Whether you're planning a new garden bed or refreshing an existing landscape, this episode will help you stop guessing and start designing with purpose.

Topics covered:

What analogous and complementary color schemes are

How to use the color wheel to guide plant selections

Ways to create a cohesive garden design

Tips for balancing bold color combinations

How foliage color and plant texture enhance your landscape

A simple step-by-step approach to designing with color

Contact us!

Chris Enroth: cenroth@illinois.edu

Ken Johnson: kjohnso@illinois.edu

Emily Swihart: eswihart@illinois.edu