In a shade garden like this one, collecting hostas can turn into an addictive habit! But it’s easy to make a group of similar plants look more interesting using a few accent tricks.

The urn in the garden draws the eye because of its unique color. But on its own, it could stick out too much. Repeating terra-cotta again on the steps helps create a sense of cohesiveness.

After years of gardening, you’re bound to end up with lots and lots of containers. Group similar colors together and no matter their shape or size — or even what’s growing inside — they’ll look great, just like the ones on the deck here.

A single specimen can be the star of your garden! Just be sure its color and texture contrast with the plants around it. The bold blue hosta leaves to the left wouldn’t stand out as much if they were green and surrounded by other big-leafed plants.