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If you’re fortunate enough to have a garden attached to your property, then you might want to treat the space to the care and attention it deserves. But exactly what does effective garden renovation look like?
Why renovate the garden?
A good garden isn’t just a beautiful space, but a functional one, too. It’s a place where you can go to relax. You can grow decorative plants here, as well as edible ones. At its best, it can form an extension of your living space, providing room for you to read a book or two – or to socialise with your friends, family and other house guests.
And a garden makeover doesn’t have to be expensive, you can transform your outdoor space with these simple tips.
Decking
One popular way to create space in the garden is via decking. This is a hard-wearing surface that makes a great match for outdoor furniture. You can drag furniture across it without worry, and you can stand on it without your boots getting muddy.
Of course, the materials we build our decking with should matter. The timber will be expected to soak up a lot of footfall, and it’ll be exposed to the elements throughout the year. Treated timber will give you a natural, sustainable look – and it’ll also resist rot, staining and decay.
Planters
A planter can be thought of as a very large plant pot. They’re usually (though not always) rectangular. Fill them with plants that you’d like to keep in view. You’ll be able to tend to them without kneeling down.
You can build planters easily using railway sleepers. They’re a great source of style for your outdoor space, and they’re wonderfully practical, too. Fill them with the flowers you’d like to look at. The right flowers will not only make your garden beautiful, they’ll also attract the predators that you’ll need to keep pests under control.
Outdoor furniture
Your choice of garden furniture will make a big difference, especially if you want to use your garden as a social space. Metal, timber and glass compete here. If you have an awkward space, then it might make sense to shop for something that’s purpose-built with the space in mind.
Think also about the cushions you’re going to be using on your outdoor seating , and how well they’ll resist rainwater. If you have to constantly ferry the cushions back indoors, then you might begin to resent them!
Also, have a think about hanging options like the egg chair for a relaxing reading or relaxing area.
Lawn care
Getting the best from your lawn means periodically mowing it, and feeding it with the right nutrients. You might think about getting new turf fitted directly into the space, especially if the existing turf is beset with weeds. This matters especially during autumn, when your lawn faces a new set of challenges. Regular raking and seed-scattering might also make a difference.
Patio
You can rejuvenate your old patio by removing any debris, leaves, or loose dirt from the surface. Use a broom or leaf blower to sweep away the larger particles, and then use a pressure washer or a hose with a high-pressure nozzle to wash away any stubborn dirt or stains.
Inspect the patio for any cracks, chips, or other damage. If you find any, use a concrete patching compound to fill in the cracks and repair the damaged areas. If the bricks are cracked or crumbling, you might might want to invest in a new patio.
Outdoor lighting
Consider installing outdoor lighting to enhance the garden’s ambiance and extend its usability into the evening hours. Options include string lights, fairy lights, lanterns, spotlights, or solar-powered fixtures. Heat lamps or a fire pit are also an option to ensure maximum use in the cooler evenings.
