I’m sure we’re all glad to see the days getting longer and the sun peeping through! It means it’s a great time to think about how to transform your garden into a bright and inviting space to enjoy this summer. Whether you’ve got green fingers or you’re a complete novice, there are plenty of ways to get the most from your garden. In this blog, we’re going to look at ten great ways to help you improve your garden and get ready for the summer months.
1. Plan and Design
Before making any physical changes, take a bit of time to plan and research ideas for your ideal garden. Consider factors such as the available space, which direction the sun shines at different times of the day, and your personal preferences in terms of how you’ll use your garden. Do a quick sketch with a rough layout of plants, seating areas, paving, decking, and whatever else you might like to include. It’s worth taking some time with this stage as it will help you make key decisions and may even bring up things you’d not thought about.
2. Clean and Declutter
A great way to start your garden transformation is by giving it a thorough clean and tidy. Remove anything that’s been ‘hanging around’ unnecessarily, clear any dead leaves and unwanted weeds, and trim any overhanging branches. Cleaning your garden not only improves its appearance but also gives it a healthier environment for your plants to grow and thrive.
3. Choose the Right Plants
Having the right plants, in the right place is key to a great-looking garden. In your planning stage, you’ve probably considered whether you’d like plants that will look great all year round or whether you just want some colour for summer. You’ll need to factor in the light and shade areas of your garden as to what plants will survive there. And, if you’re wanting it to look great all year, you’ll need to think about the weather. If it’s anything like our weather up here in Queensbury, winter is harsh! We have to be very careful when choosing plants that will stand up to the cold and wind here. Adding a colourful mix of flowers and shrubs will instantly make your garden feel more inviting.
4. Install Outdoor Lighting
Why be limited to daylight hours? Adding some garden lighting lets you carry on enjoying your garden into the evening. You’re spoilt for choice these days with many different types and styles to create a lovely atmosphere, even after the sun has gone down. Whether you choose solar lighting, battery-powered lighting or mains-powered lighting, there’s something for every garden. Light up your pathways, string some lights in the trees or hang them from a pergola. Lighting not only makes your garden look good, but it’s also great for security too.
5. Create seating areas
Add some comfy seating areas to make your garden a cosy and relaxing space. On a patio, on a deck, or in a secluded corner. Create spots where you can unwind, entertain your family and friends, or enjoy a meal alfresco. Choose outdoor furniture that’s practical for your family whilst fitting in with the overall style of your garden.
6. Add Water Features
They’re not everybody’s cup of tea but a water feature, however large or small, adds tranquillity to any garden. Consider installing a fountain, pond, or birdbath. The soothing sound of flowing water will not only improve your garden but, it will also attract birds and other wildlife.
7. Create defined pathways
Well-designed pathways will improve your garden, adding structure to the different areas. Use different materials like gravel, stones, paving and even decking to give a clear path and add colour and texture. Use stepping stones to add a sense of adventure for little ones exploring. Whether your path is to highlight a change in surface, say from paving to grass, or its access across the lawn to a shed at the bottom of the garden, there are many ways to incorporate this and improve your garden.
8. Consider vertical gardening
It’s all the rage these days! If you’ve got limited space in your garden, vertical gardening or wall gardening is a great solution. Use walls or fences to grow climbing plants such as vines or roses. Hanging baskets and living walls are also great options for adding greenery without taking up too much space. Vertical gardening will maximise the available space but also adds a great visual feature to your garden.
9. Be wildlife friendly
Make an inviting space to attract wildlife into your garden. Do some research on the types of plants that will attract bees and butterflies. Incorporate plants with berries or seeds that birds can feed on. Add a birdbath, bird feeder, bat box or butterfly house to encourage them to visit. They’re lovely to watch and will encourage children to go outdoors and learn about them.
10. Regular Maintenance is Key
Maintenance is a must when you’re trying to improve your garden. Stay on top of weeding or they’ll take over. Deadheading flowers will help them to keep blooming for longer. Trim and shape your shrubs. Look out for signs of pests or diseases and nip them in the bud. (See what I did there 😉) Sweep any pathways and cut the grass. This will all help to ensure your garden stays looking beautiful all summer long.
Let Kettlewell Groundworks help improve your garden
By implementing these ten ideas, your garden will be summer ready in no time. If you want to take your garden transformation a step further, Kettlewell Groundworks are on hand to help you achieve your dream garden in Bradford, Halifax and the surrounding areas. We’re always complimented on our amazing client care and attention to detail which is why most of our business comes from a client referral.
Not sure about what to do to improve your garden? You’ll find some great inspiration on our Instagram page.
If you’d like to have a chat about your garden, it’s easy to book an appointment online at www.kettlewellgroundworks.co.uk/contactus. Or you can email us if you have any questions before booking a visit.
