Create a garden you'll love

Make the most of your outdoor space by personalising your garden to your needs with these five simple steps. By taking a moment to consider what will make time spent outdoors more enjoyable for you and your family, you can build a garden you’ll love all year long.

1. PLAN AND PREP
The first step is to think carefully about what you need your garden to be. Perhaps you’d like to repurpose your space to create another room. Maybe you’re thinking of creating different sections for different needs: a quiet corner for solitude, a larger space for entertaining friends and family, an area to encourage wildflowers and wildlife. Or maybe you simply want to prioritise a space which is easy to maintain and eco-friendly. Being clear on what you’d like to achieve will provide a good steer on the furniture, plants and accessories you’ll need to create it.

2. TRIM AND TIDY
Admittedly, not the most fun part, but it’s worth making time in advance to give yourself a blank canvas to work with. By undertaking basic chores now, you’ll have your garden looking at its best. And it will be much easier to keep on top of later, when you’d rather be relaxing and enjoying it.

Sweep up fallen leaves and power wash pathways and decking to remove moss and dirt which may have become slippery over winter. Remove weeds, plants lost to frost and trim back overgrown branches and plants, paying particular attention to those that will be at eye level around your seating areas.

Create designated space for garden tools so they aren’t unsightly and, more importantly, won’t become a tripping hazard. Clean outdoor light bulbs and decorations and make sure all furniture has been wiped down with proper cleaning materials.

Once your garden is clear, you’ll also be able to take a fresh look at what you have to work with. Are there new areas you can carve out. Is there a place that could become a real feature or focus point. What needs a new lease of life, and what has done really over the colder months.

3. SEATING SELECTIONS
Garden furniture is a key feature of our gardens, large or small. Whatever space we are afforded, it’s nice to take the time to sit and enjoy time the sounds, sights and smells of our gardens.

When you’re clear on what you’re aiming to achieve, and where you want to do it, next step is to decide whether your furniture will be the finishing touch, or the focal point.

Each type has its own purpose. A small bistro is perfect for brunch or afternoon tea on a patio or small terrace. Larger sofa and dining sets create space for entertaining friends and family. Fire pits make the most of cooler evenings and changing seasons. And cocoons and benches take up less space in quieter corners for reading and restoring a sense of peace.

Additionally, different materials, make different impacts. Rattan looks softer, more traditional and is ideal for a cottage-style garden. Aluminium is more contemporary, sleeker, and easily accessorised to allow for your individual style. Whilst Teak is a garden favourite, and makes for beautiful dining tables that can be tablescaped or styled with fresh flowers.

4. PLANTING POWER
Connecting with nature through sights, sounds and touch helps improve mental health and general well-being, and we’re learning more about the benefits of sensory and restorative gardens all the time. If you want to stimulate your senses, a good place to start is with planting. Mixing scented plants and herbs will provide a heady mix of fragrance. Textured grasses will rustle in the breeze to create soothing sound. And wildflowers which attract beautiful butterflies and bees to watch. All these take a garden from a simple space to a place which will be a haven throughout the warmer months.

5. PERSONAL PERFECTION
No two gardens are the same, and there are many ways to make yours all your own. Scatter cushions, outdoor rugs and throws add colour and soften the linear edges of furniture sets. Flowers and foliage straight from the garden bring a decorative touch to tabletops and coffee tables. And candles are the ideal addition to add atmosphere and ambience for the evenings. Add your own finishing touches and create a garden you’ll love to spend time enjoying with friends and family or in peace with a good book, all season long.

For more inspiration and ideas on creating a garden you’ll love, take a peek at our Instagram and Pinterest feeds.