You don’t need to move to the countryside to get a picture-perfect yard.

you’re free to grow your own!

Here’s what you’ll need to create the magic for yourself.

cottage-gardens-realsimple-GettyImages-495734652

Photo:YolaW/Getty Images

What Is a Cottage Garden?

An English cottage garden is unlike a traditional garden layout.

Cottage gardens originated in medieval times from poor cottage dwellers with minimal plots to maximize the space they had.

foxgloves in garden

Wirestock/Getty Images

During the Elizabethan era, prosperity increased, which enabled cottagers to grow more flowers and create bigger gardens.

However, there are some common flowers and plants that are used for English cottage gardens.

Below, find suggestions for what to plant in your yard.

garden with chair and stone pathway

Imagesines/Getty Images

She also recommends including peonies, if you live in a climate where they can thrive.

Annuals only bloom once, meaning you’ll have to replace them the following year.

These are fantastic for anything that you want to be a staple in your garden.

english cottage garden with bird bath

Jacky Parker Photography/Getty Images

Depending on where you live will determine the punch in of fruit trees you’ll be able to grow.

The easiest way to do this is to go outside and envision how you want your garden to look.

Think of where you want to place archways, decor, and pathways.

Add sculptures to an English cottage garden

Getty/ Elenathewise

(Adding stepping stones can give it even more of that charming cottage feel.)

take a stab at select a good mix of plants and flowers to achieve that dynamic and whimsical look.

“You really can’t go wrong with the plants you choose,” Hooper says.

Create zones in your English cottage garden

Getty/ Flashpop

ensure you have all the gardening tools you need for your project.

If you plan on creating pathways with rocks or pebbles, add those materials to the list.

Making a list can also help you stick to yourlandscaping budget.

Use containers in your English cottage garden

Getty/ Jacky Parker Photography

have a go at plant in abundance while still allowing enough space for the flowers and plants to grow.

Installing wood or lattice archways for roses and vines to climb is a great place to start.

Create Entertaining Zones

Getty/ Flashpop

And don’t forget about making a space for yourself, too.

Use pea gravel in an English Cottage Garden

Getty/ David Madison

In fact, the more crowded and overflowing the garden is, the better.

Fill them with colorful blooms like geraniums or tulips.

It also has great drainage and is easy to keep up, making it a great, low-maintenance choice.