Why Plant in Odd Numbers? Because Your Garden’s Not a Math Class, It’s an Art Exhibit.

Let’s settle this right now: when it comes to planting, odd is in, even is out. Why? Because Mother Nature doesn’t work in neat little pairs. She’s a wild artist, and if you want your garden to look like a masterpiece instead of a science project, planting in odd numbers is your golden ticket.

Here’s why your garden (and your eyeballs) will thank you:

More Natural and Balanced

Odd-numbered groupings—like 3, 5, or 7—mimic what we see in nature. Have you ever seen flowers growing in symmetrical twos in the wild? Nope. Nature’s all about that casual, unbothered beauty. Odd numbers keep your garden from looking too staged, giving it that effortless, “I woke up like this” vibe. 

Creates Visual Movement

Planting in threes or fives naturally draws the eye along a gentle curve, which keeps things interesting. Your gaze moves smoothly from one plant to the next, instead of doing the visual equivalent of hitting a speed bump. This “flow” makes your garden feel alive and engaging—no matter the season.

Enhances Focal Points

Want something to really pop? Odd numbers help anchor your focal plants. Think three blooming hydrangea standards or five wispy ornamental grasses. The asymmetry adds drama without chaos. It’s like framing your favourite painting with just the right spotlight. 

Works in Any Garden Size

Small space? Big yard? No problem. Odd numbers work whether you're styling a tiny front porch planter or a sprawling backyard bed. A trio of plants in a container? Chic. A grouping of seven shrubs in a foundation planting? Designer-level garden goals. No matter the scale, odd-numbered planting feels intentional and polished. 

Tricks the Eye (In a Good Way)

Our brains love patterns—but not too much. Odd numbers create an unpredictable rhythm that’s more stimulating to look at. You don’t consciously think, “Ah yes, a lovely group of five coneflowers,” but your brain registers harmony and interest. It’s garden psychology, and it works. 

Easier to Layer

When you plant in odd numbers, it’s easier to stagger heights and textures. Put the tallest plant in the middle of a group of three, then layer lower ones to the sides. Voilà—instant depth and dimension. No weird symmetry, no awkward gaps. Just layered goodness. 

Solves the “One Plant Looks Lonely” Problem

You know that one random plant you stuck in the corner that’s just… there? Give it some friends. Adding two more (hello, rule of three) makes it feel like part of a team instead of a misplaced extra.

Top Plant Trios for Zone 5

Need some inspiration? Here are some superstar trios that thrive in Georgina’s growing zone 5—and look drop-dead gorgeous when grouped in threes:

Perennial Powerhouses

• 3 Coneflowers (Echinacea) – Long bloomers, pollinator magnets, and come in every colour from soft white to hot pink.
• 3 Russian Sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia) – Airy texture, drought-tolerant, and smells amazing.
• 3 Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia) – Bold and cheerful—perfect for summer-to-fall colour.

Fabulous Foliage

• 3 Coral Bells (Heuchera) – Pick three different leaf colours for a rainbow effect in part shade.
• 3 Hostas – A classic trio for shady spots, with endless size and colour options.
• 3 Japanese Forest Grasses (Hakonechloa) – Graceful and glowy in a part-shade garden.

Shrub Squad

• 3 Panicle Hydrangeas (like ‘Limelight’ or ‘Bobo’) – Summer bloomers that transition into autumn stars.
• 3 Ninebark (Physocarpus) – Great texture, unique leaf colours, and tons of personality.
• 3 Boxwoods – Neat, tidy, and evergreen—just the thing to anchor beds year-round.

Sun-Loving Annuals

• 3 Geraniums – Mounding, trailing, and fabulous in containers or beds. 
• 3 Marigolds – Low-maintenance and full of warm, sunny colour.
• 3 Verbena – Compact but mighty, with blooms that go all summer long.

So there you have it, the next time you're planning your garden—whether you're tackling a new landscape bed, styling a container, or jazzing up your entryway—ditch the pairings. Go for odd numbers. Three echinacea. Five hostas. Seven ornamental onions. Not only will it look more natural and balanced, but you’ll also feel like a garden design genius. (Which, obviously, you are.)
Need help picking a perfect odd-numbered combo for your zone 5 garden? Swing by Georgina Garden Centre. We’ve got plants, tips, and an enthusiastic crew who won't let you walk out with just two of anything.

Happy gardening!