Photograph by Jim Powell for Gardenista

Think of red as lipstick for your garden. Even if you're one of those gardeners who thinks a little red goes a long way, you still need a little. We've made a study of scarlet and come up with our favorite ways to add red to a garden.

Photo by Sylvia Linsteadt

1. A Pop of Poppies

Photo by Kendra Wilson

Plant a clump of red poppies at the edge of a path.

2. Less is More

Photo by Mimi Giboin

A single pop of color can make an outsized impact.

3. Pair Red With Black

Photo by Jim Powell

Plant red flowers against a backdrop of black to intensify the color.

4. Paint a Panel

Photo by Debi Treloar

A subtle application of color can brighten an entire garden.

5. Accent an Archway

Photo by Eleni Psyllaki

A fast-growing bougainvillea flowering vine frames this walkway.

6. Relax a Formal Garden

Photo by Jeanne Rostaing

A riot of red makes even the most formal garden look playful.

7. Add Annuals

Photo by Katharine Huber

For a vibrant application of red, try planting dahlias.

8. Be a Shutter Bug

Photo by Vixen Hill Cedar Products

Use red as an accent color to draw attention to shutters or a front door.

9. Pick a Perfect Paint

Choose your favorite red paint for a personal touch.

10. Complementary Colors

Photo by Justine Hand

Reds work well together, as seen with this camelia growing against a brick wall.