No, I use some herbs as grown cover.. Sage, Lemon Balm, Thyme, Mints.. not only do they give more interest then just mulch, I can use them for other stuff.

I see nothing odd of maximizing your space , especially if you are going for a cottage garden look, vs a more formal setting. If you want stuff lined up straight , then this isnt going to work for you.

Things bloom at different times alot as well, so as one thing goes another comes, there are items you can trim back some especially if they are tall perrenials.

Best of all, its your space. do with it what you like!

Silverkelt

I say...go for it!

Vera

I think it would add interest to the garden. How big is your plot, and what shape? Can you arrange your annuals so the tall go in the back and the shorter ones near the front?

I'm putting a lot of annuals in my so-called perennial garden because I turned most of it over last summer and didn't have enough perennials to fill it. I made an effort to sow more perennials this year, but they're still tiny so to get any kind of flowers this year I'm putting my annuals there with the intention of planting the perennials in the fall (right now they're in their ws containers set around the garden in their permanent spots just so I can visualize). One of my annuals is strawflower, too. I put that near the back because the packet said it grew to 3 feet or so. This is my first time with strawflowers.

Caryl

My philosopy is "fill it up... less room for weeds!!!!!" I jam pack my beds. While I have learned to leave a walkway (really had to work on this my first few years...) in order to get to the occastional weed and pull it, I find that my plants like to be friendly with their neighbors. I don't mulch (too many beds and too expensive) and by summer there is hardly any "dirt" showing at all in the beds.

One suggestion though... try to avoid putting just "one" plant in a space. I always aim for at least three or five together in a grouping.

You're so right, nan. Three or five of one type together. Learned that from a landscaper friend.

thank you for your ideas.
Caryltoo, I've had strawflowers for several years. (initially got them from a WS trade)
Love 'em! They do indeed get tall, mine get about 2 feet high. As dried flowers they literally last for years.

i also like to see no dirt, love a filled garden, so much less work - weeding, watering.

this year I am going to mix plants.
actually decided yesterday to leave my 2 beds - herbs and pereniels as they are - I like to focus on them.

I have one more big bed that I have to clear will squeeze in as many seedlings there as possible. will send pictures as this is the year I hope when I buy a digital camera.

thanks! Love to hear your'all ideas. :)

Looking forward to your pics, Ellen. And can't wait for the strawflowers -- my mom had dried flower arrangements with them years ago.