Walkways, beds and borders are randomly spaced, follow the lay of the land, and are often edged with found rocks, logs or landscape timbers. Hedges or tapestries of mixed shrubs, lightly pruned, act as living walls, providing privacy and a sense of enclosure. Turf is used sparingly, or not at all. In asymmetrical compositions, plantings occur in drifts and are multi-layered. Trees and shrubs add vertical interest.
Vines connect the ground and sky.
Perennials, annuals and bulbs provide color. Focal points in informal gardens frequently involve items of a personal or humorous nature. Twig or wicker seating areas tucked into leafy bowers, or an arbor smothered with old-fashioned roses, are perfect focal points for the hopelessly romantic. Other possible elements to emphasize include terra cotta pots, gazing globes, sundials and birdbaths and houses. To be effective, focal points in informal gardens should reflect the personality and spirit of their creator.