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1A novel design approach to gardening has been gaining in popularity worldwide. Referred to as matrix planting, this approach aims for nature to do a lot more of the heavy lifting in the garden, and even some of the designing. Eschewing fertilizers and power tools, it's based on an elegantly simple principle: to garden more like nature does.

2The concept was born when German city planners sought to plant large areas of parkland after World War II in a reproducible way that would need minimal maintenance. Planners created planting mixes that could be used modularly. In a matrix garden, plants with similar cultural needs are grouped so that they will grow together above and below ground, forming a cooperative ecosystem that conserves water and discourages weeds.

3Dutch plantsman and designer Piet Oudolf's gardens popularized this style, adding artistic flavors to the planting mixes while playing with color and form, including four-season interest and serving the needs of wildlife. Beautiful year-round, they invite you to enjoy the smallest detail, from the sound of grasses in the gentle wind to the sculpture of odd-looking seed heads.

4It takes a lot of thought to look this natural. While matrix gardens appear wild, they are carefully planned, with cultural needs the first consideration. Led by the concept of "right plant, right place," they match plants that enjoy the same soil, sun and weather conditions, and arrange them according to their patterns of growth.

5The benefits are substantial for both gardener and planet. With human inputs dramatically reduced, the garden's ecology can develop well. Established matrix gardens should not need the life support we give most gardens: fertilizer, dividing, regular watering. Compared to traditional garden plots, they increase carbon absorption, reduce stormwater runoff and boost habitat and biodiversity significantly.