MATRIX PLANTINGS
The functional layer in a planting design.
The matrix is like a canvas that holds an entire planting together, while also being a functional workhorse. Imagine the matrix sweeping across the entire lower layer of a planting bed, while primary plants emerge from it. The primary plants are able to put on a lovely show, while the matrix layer works hard to keep the weeds at bay.
In the book, New Naturalism, Kelly Norris explains how the matrix layer often requires way more plants than you might think. For instance, in native grasslands these plants can be up to 70% of the overall vegetation. Wow!
Step back and learn how matrix plantings fit into the overall structure of PLANTING MODELS.
PRIMARY PLANTS: Known for their seasonal + showy blooms. These plants are the dynamic energy in the garden.
Above design by Piet Oudolf via the book, Piet Oudolf at Work.
GOODNESS FOR YOU THIS MONTH
Below you will find several items to help you learn more about MATRIX PLANTINGS. From written words to video to applied activities to group discussions. Explore our topic from different angles and gain a new perspective. Click on the first two images below to download PDFs. Further down you will find a plant list-in-progress, a video, links to our community, plus Q+A's too!
Plant Ideas for a Matrix Layer
Click on the button below to add to our matrix plant list, plus check out what others have included.
Add to our list!VIDEO ON MATRIX PLANTINGS
OUR COMMUNITY
Don't forget to hang out with everyone to share your work and chat about MATRIX PLANTINGS! Check in to share your activity via the CHALLENGES area. Specific links are located in each activity below.
Activity .01
MATRIX INSPIRATION
Share either one of your designs or find a photo of a garden that showcases a matrix planting.
Activity .02
MATRIX PLANT COMBINATION
Choose three plants for a proposed matrix layer planting.
Share your images via a mood board (or whatever format you'd like) and explain why you chose them.
Share a win!
What have you accomplished in the last month that makes you super happy? Let us celebrate with you!
LIVE SESSIONS
We have two this month: our normal Q+A, plus a special guest presentation. These will both be recorded in case you can't make it (then posted right back here). Visit the Q+A SCHEDULE for times and links or click below.
I can't wait to see you!
Matrix Plantings with Kelly Norris
Thursday, May 11
2 PM PT | 4 PM CT | 5 PM ET
London: 10 PM
Sydney: May 12 at 7 AM
This session will be a matrix Q+A with Kelly. If you have a question you'd like to ask please add it to our SPREADSHEET here.
Learn more about Kelly here.
Visual Estimates sheet that Kelly mentions in our Q+A
Grab the Chat Notes
Monthly Q+A
Thursday, May 25
North America:
Noon PDT | 2 PM CDT | 3 PM EDT
London: 8 PM BST
Sydney: May 26 at 5 AM AEST
Grab the Chat Notes
I'd love your feedback once you've devoured all this goodness.
Drop me a note at the email below and let me know what you loved and what could be improved. Thank you!
Please contact me at [email protected]
