Making More of Outdoor Space

Gardens appeal to the senses through pleasing structural layout, formal or natural, and the effective use of colour, scent and features. But by also being practical and comfortable, pleasing and refined, helps to create calming surroundings that one loves to enjoy.

By the time winter ends, gardens can take on that all too common but disappointingly jaded look, some can be distinctly uninspiring whilst others show signs of neglect. But as spring time approaches, and daylight hours slowly extend, now is the ideal time to take a hard look at the garden and identify how to rejuvenate the outdoor living space.  

Where to start

At a basic level, garden areas should be clean and clear of clutter. Beyond this a range of annual remedial works might be required, for example, is the fencing and paved areas in good condition? Are trees and shrubs neat and tidy? Are lawn areas green, groomed and refreshing or simply jaded weeded patches?

Apart from the remedial works, the rejuvenation of the garden area will ultimately be scoped by the attention to details such lawn and patio areas, tree and shrub planting, as well as water features and lighting etc which will collectively determine the value of the overall experience and how we enjoy the ‘outdoor room’.

Lawns – should be in good condition, evenly cut with crisp well defined neat edges, weeded and clear of all fallen leaf and grass cuttings. Pale looking lawns can be restored to vivid green with the application of fertiliser. If problems are more serious and lawn is infested with weeds, consider removing old lawn and re-sodding area with new roll turf. Whatever the area size, a well maintained level and groomed lawn makes very striking impression whilst coordinating all the other aspects of the garden area.

A natural stone cobble edging (set in sand and cement and approx 25mm below ground level) not only provides a practical mowing strip but clearly defines lawn profile.

Patios – sometimes particularly in north facing sites which tend during winter periods to be shaded and damp, results in ‘greening’ of paved areas. This greening along with any residual grime, moss, and weed etc can be removed by power washing to restore the stone like new. Also available now are very environmentally friendly stone treatments that can be applied annually to prevent the greening effect. For some added visual interest to Patio areas, a few strategically placed colourful planters can have a dramatic effect. For optimum colour, probably best to use locally available seasonal planting. Other areas that would benefit from some colour include recessed areas which can be overlooked, driveways and entrance/exit points.   

Fencing – repair or replace broken boards or panels. A fresh coat of paint will work wonders for overall appearance. Colour here can be used creatively, light colours for natural or discreet backgrounds or ebony black can be used as a very effective foil to emphasise plant forms and colour and provide a more contemporary/urban look. 

Shrubs, Trees and Herbaceous Flowers – dead head i.e. remove faded blooms old flower heads, trim and prune trees and shrubs, especially low hanging or overgrown branches around windows or over footpaths etc. If there are obvious or unsightly gaps amongst the existing plants, consider carefully the importance of colour when selecting possible replacements. To bring out the bets in colour and impact, consider planting in groups (block planting). Do not overlook the importance also of scent within the garden, some areas for simple but effective ways of experiencing scent throughout the garden include at patio areas, near windows and along footpaths. Popular scented plant varieties include Lavender, Rosemary, Santolina, Helichrysum, and Daphne.

Water Features – water adds a new dimension to any garden, and there are now a wide range of styles and sizes from which to choose. Although ponds require much more regular maintenance and upkeep, all water features should be in good working order and clear of any debris. Water features are always eye catching and because of the mesmerizing appeal of and soothing qualities of running water, water features can be an invaluable addition to any garden. Best position for locating water features tend to be where people sit and congregate i.e. Patio where all the beautiful sight and sounds can be enjoyed. Also with the addition of some architectural planting and subtle lighting, water features can take on a different role at night and using garden light to illuminate water gently cascading over stones can make for a stunning focal point during darkness.

Garden Lighting – it is possible to eco–friendly and to illuminate the garden areas. Despite there low lighting capability there is a relatively small role for Solar lights, but for more impact albeit at low energy usage the popular choice for accent lighting at trees or shrubs are the energy efficient CFL bulbs and/or equivalent GU10CFL. Incandescent lamps should all be replaced with CFLs. For more general lighting LEDs are increasingly becoming an alternative to more conventional choices. Colour lamps can be used creatively to highlight particular plant forms or colourways, For gardens with large mature trees, cool touch metal halide lights which are recessed at ground/soil level can be used to uplight tree with dramatic effects.

Garden Design – most people enjoy gardens, for very a small minority gardens are places almost like museums, where plants can be enjoyed, fortunately for the vast majority of people, gardens are outdoor rooms or living spaces where plants, trees and shrubs are structural elements of a greater dynamic of environments for relaxing and living with families, entertaining with friends and playing with the children or pets. It is very important that before undertaking any rejuvenation of the garden area, that the design clearly defines the area in terms of structure, form and character throughout the year. Otherwise any improvements might just be piecemeal and incremental and an opportunity for greater enjoyment and lasting satisfaction lost.

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