There’s a very exciting buzz in England at the moment. The sun is making more of an appearance each day, and barbeque season is upon us. This calls for one thing: spending less time inside and more time in our outdoor spaces.
However, for those of us with gardens on the smaller side, it can be a worrying thought. Fretting over where everyone will sit, or whether your space will look as nice as your neighbours', is not how you should be spending your time. We’re here to share our favourite ideas for smaller garden spaces, so you can have the garden you want.
However, before we begin, find out about 9 gardening trends you need to know about right now.
1. Vertical growing
Inside our homes, we make full use of the walls to hang pictures, mirrors and shelves - so why can’t we do the same with our gardens? Vertical growing is a wonderful way to fill your garden with gorgeous plants whilst not compromising on space.
Many different types of plants, flowers and even vegetables work well in a vertical space, so you're not limited on what you can use. Plant them close to a wall or fence and watch them grow, or use a trellis if you need more structure.
2. Be smart with your furniture
Garden furniture is a great way to help you get the most out of your outdoor space. It not only serves as a space to spend time with family and friends, but allows you to create your own relaxation spot available to you at any time. Whilst furniture options can be slightly limited when you have a smaller garden, there are some great options you can go for that save on space whilst looking great at the same time.
For example, folding garden furniture is super lightweight and can be easily tucked away into small areas of your garden (or even inside) when not in use. Another option is garden furniture with storage, such as a bench. Storage benches provide additional seating whilst also storing your tools, lights and extra cushions. Pretty smart!
Sign up to the T3 newsletter for smarter living straight to your inbox
Get all the latest news, reviews, deals and buying guides on gorgeous tech, home and active products from the T3 experts
3. Use mirrors and light reflecting materials
Mirrors are a great addition to any small garden as they create an illusion of extended space. Not only do they emphasise the beauty of your plants and flowers, but they can make it seem like you have double the amount. If you place a few mirrors on your walls in the shape of a doorway or window, it will seem as if the garden continues into another area!
They’re also useful for redirecting light to areas of your garden that need it most. If you have a space that is rather shady in some places, position your mirror accordingly so it redirects the light.
4. Make use of pots!
Even if your garden isn’t big enough for flower beds, you can still bring beautiful plants and flowers to your space by using pots.
This will enable you to plant them specifically to their needs, and mean you can move them around as you wish. You can also switch the plants you have in your pots as the seasons change, meaning you can have colour all year round. However, be careful with your watering technique!
5. Create a cosy atmosphere
Using small lights on the floor or above a path can create depth, making it especially cosy in the evenings. Solar lights are also a great way to emulate this whilst saving on cost, however remember to place them in a suntrap during the day so they have enough energy to work at night.
You can also add height to your garden in the evenings by entwining any tree trunks or trellises with solar powered string lights. This will continue to accentuate your garden’s space instead of it disappearing into the night!
Interested in how else you can make the most of your garden? Read our guide on maintaining and entertaining in your outdoor space this summer.
Lizzie is T3's Home Staff Writer, also covering style, living and wellness. She works closely with Bethan Girdler-Maslen, T3's Home Editor, ensuring all the latest news, trends and recommendations are covered. Outside of T3, Lizzie can be found mooching around Bath, attempting (or at least trying to) a new DIY project or spending time with family and friends.
-
This full-body workout for beginners builds functional strength and boosts longevity
And all you need is a single dumbbell
By Bryony Firth-Bernard Published
-
Apple Vision Pro could learn a thing or two from PSVR2 when it comes to gaming
Craving proper gaming on the Apple Vision Pro? That could happen
By Chris Hall Published
-
Gardening jobs for December: 10 tasks to wrap up the year
There are still tasks to be doing!
By Lizzie Wilmot Published
-
Stihl's first battery-powered pressure washer is here, and there are two versions to choose from
Say goodbye to the hassle of tangled cables
By Lizzie Wilmot Published
-
Gardening jobs for October: 10 tasks to complete before the clocks change
Get out in the garden before the frost arrives
By Lizzie Wilmot Published
-
Gardening jobs for September: 10 tasks to prepare your garden for autumn
Embrace the start of autumn with these useful gardening tips
By Lizzie Wilmot Published
-
Gardening expert gives 5 tips on how to look after your plants while on holiday
5 tips on ensuring your plants get watered while you’re travelling, according to gardening experts
By Bethan Girdler-Maslen Published
-
Mammotion YUKA 1500 3D Vision Robot Lawn Sweeping Mower review: a top-performing robot replete with autonomous grass catcher
The future of robotic lawn maintenance starts right here
By Derek Adams Published
-
Gardening jobs for August: 10 tasks to protect your garden from harsh rays
Beat the heat with these August gardening tips
By Lizzie Wilmot Published
-
3 signs you need to replace your garden tools, according to an expert
Have you checked your garden tools recently?
By Lizzie Wilmot Published