Add Whimsy To Your Backyard With The Trees That Are Already There

What if your backyard trees could host a tiny, magical world? Fairy gardens bring a dash of whimsy to your yard and can be created using items you already have around the house. These miniature gardens gained popularity after World War I, thanks to British gardener Anne Ashbury, who even crafted one for a young Queen Elizabeth II. Over time, they became connected with folklore about fairies, possibly because the gardens looked ready for miniature feet to enjoy them. According to legend, fairies love to make their homes in the crooks of trees, inspiring those who want to create mini gardens for them — or simply embrace their inner child. Fairy gardens are even Joanna Gaines-approved — using them to get her kids involved in gardening. Like Peter Pan, you can declare, "I too believe in fairies!" as you design your own charming fairy garden.

What makes fairy gardens so unique is the combination of the natural world and the imagination. Fairy gardens often incorporate natural elements, such as moss, twigs, and stones, and can be designed to blend into the natural elements already in place. Many also construct fairy cottages or doors, such as this whimsical DIY garden fairy door. But most of all, fairy gardens have miniature elements such as furniture or picket fences that look like a fairy could arrive home any moment. Let your imagination run wild and create a fairy garden that's unique to you!

First, choose a theme, whether that's a color, a place (think beachside retreat), or a natural element, such as mushrooms or moss. Your theme will help your fairy garden feel cohesive and planned. Then, decide what miniature elements you want to incorporate. You may be able to use items you already have, such as dollhouse furniture, or kits such as HYG Miniature Fairy Garden Accessories are available to help you get started. Next, choose the perfect spot for your fairy garden. While they're often nestled among tree roots or at the base of a tree, that's not the only option. If your yard lacks a suitable tree, a planter or even an antique wheelbarrow can work beautifully, too. Then, you're ready to start designing!

Start by placing your larger elements, like the MUAMAX Fairy Garden Door or a charming fairy cottage, to establish the centerpieces for your fairy garden. Next, add smaller elements in multiples to create a cohesive theme—think moss, tree slices, or colorful accents like the FANTIAN Flat Glass Pebbles, repeated throughout your design. Consider whether you want to include miniature plants, such as Irish moss (Sagina sublata), asparagus fern (Asparagus aethiopicus), or miniature daisies (Bellium minutum). For additional ideas, take a look at 20 fairy garden ideas that are downright magical. Whatever you choose, it's sure to add a touch of whimsy to your yard!