I like to group things in threes, or like-with-like... but I don't always. :) But odd numbers of things do seem to look better than even numbers.

I've included a link to a photo of a bit of my garden. I consider the pink flowering whatsit in the front the 3rd item to the 2 teapots... if that makes sense. :)

Amy

Here is a link that might be useful: 1, 2, 3

Good question.
In my yard I tend to group small items in odd numbered groups otherwise I feel that they disappear. But
I avoid having a lot of groups, I feel it makes things look cluttered. I also place more unusual small single items in some of my large planters. It keeps them safe from Squirrel Dog and DH and his infamous weed whacker.
Large items I place by themselves, they're big, they can handle take it.
Odd numbers is definitely the way to go with groups. Can you make themed groupings? Can you raise any of it above ground level, mount it on a fence or? What about an archaeological themes grouping? Your version of the Forum sort of thing.
Play around and keep what looks best to you.
Post some photos if you can! I think we all love seeing each others gardens.

Thanks for the ideas. Amesly, that looks like pink spirea in your teapot grouping.
Louisianagal

Hi Louisianagal! I agree with everyone else. I like to group things in odd numbers (learned this on all the decorating shows!), and definitely stagger the height on some of the things (learned this from Craftylady on this board!). Hope you'll share some pictures of your stuff, especially your Katrina treasures!!

I basically do with nmgirl does. When my gardens were small I had a lot of stuff in it to compensate, but I think that just ended up making it feel cluttered. Now that the gardens are more mature, I think it can handle more pieces of garden art, mainly because they are partially hidden and you can come upon them while you are walking around in the garden, sort of like a surprise.

I'm in the single camp. I want the garden to be the main attraction with my garden junk/art as a delightful and surprising accent.

I love vignettes. Larger items such as a bird bath can be separate but mainly grouips. I do not like to see a bunch of statuary all lined up like soldiers.And you can change it as often as you wish. I take photos and it helps me see what it looks like and what I discover is down the road I have it moved somewhere else.
{{gwi:132454}}
This works because it isnt 50 different colors . The tree and spanish moss are the background.The dog is the highlight though!!!!

goldenpond, your dog definitely looks like he is posing! He even has a big smile on his face. lol!

I agree with adina72, I think too much stuff looks cluttered and distracts. Once a garden is mature, it can handle more bits and pieces hidden amidst the flowers and plants. I have seen some pretty wild yards on this forum but they looked cool because they were well balanced with flowers/plants and space.

I also think things are cool hung on fences or a wall either directly or on a shelf. I always wanted to hang old wooden chairs on a fence and use them like shelves for flower pots, birdhouses and garden ornaments (I live in an apartment so that idea is out for now). But it would give the garden some much needed height in its infancy.

Luna - what a great idea to hang chairs on a fence! Now I just need a fence.....LOL

Items are more interesting when grouped in 3...old decorating tip.

But, there comes a time when too much garden art is just that...too much. My MIL lived in a mobile home park and her patch of yard was a cacophany of stuff. DH used to make statuary and she had practically every kind he made. Plus she had tons of my totem stakes, and every doodad she could find at a GS. AND she had plants & flowers. Too much!

I think you need to do one or the other in the garden, plants or art. If you put one piece here or there in a garden, that is nice. But if your garden is like mine, more space than flora, you have more art. Garden art CAN be the garden, you know!

Well in Florida when a hurricane is threatening you must bring in and/or secure all outdoor items. I have two and a half acres to decorate .You find out quickly how much is too much. Some years I have had to bring it in 6 times But remember you also have to put it all back out there again!!!!!!! Here is a my fall display after a late tropical storm.{{gwi:132455}}