With many of us spending more time at home than ever before for work and leisure, our gardens have become an important space. Property professionals have reported soaring demand for homes with a garden since the end of the first COVID-induced lockdown in May 2020.
Whether you’re keen to improve your garden for your own use or you’re eager to take advantage of your smaller garden by having a go at some vertical gardening, then read on because we have some excellent top tips on making the most of a small garden that will help you get the most out of the space you have.
1. De-Clutter
Just as de-cluttering your home can be cathartic and help maximise the space available, spring cleaning a garden can make it appear more spacious and attractive. Removing any unnecessary clutter, such as garden ornaments, furniture, or play equipment that is no longer needed, can also open up more options. Perhaps you’ve always dreamed of growing herbs? Or you’d like the space to paint outdoors?
Get rid of unused plant pots and organize gardening tools into one area. It’s a good idea to use lidded containers to store tools and children’s toys. Don’t hold on to broken or unwanted items. As well as this, doing regular garden maintenance, such as deadheading flowers, pruning bushes, and removing any overgrown trees with the help of somewhere like this Roanoke tree service, will prevent your garden from becoming overrun with out-of-control greenery and weeds.
If you have a small garden, de-cluttering is one of the quickest, easiest and most cost-effective ways to maximise the space you have.
2. Use Planters
If you’re short on space and time but love the idea of a plant and flower-filled garden, using planters is a great way to add greenery and colour while maintaining a garden area that can be used flexibly. Potted plants can easily be moved around to suit the occasion or your mood! They also make it easier to care for your precious blooms – move them into shade or sun as needed!
For beginner gardeners, planters also allow a little trial and error. If a new plant or herb fails to thrive, empty the container and try again.
3. Encourage Wildlife
What your garden lacks in space, it can make up for in wildlife! To encourage birds, bees and other small creatures, grow hedges instead of putting up fencing, hang feeders and water baths from walls or trees and add climbing plants or shrubs to provide food and shelter.
“Hotels” and “houses” for bees, butterflies, hedgehogs and more are becoming increasingly available. If you have kids, get them involved in setting up and monitoring your garden’s new habitat.
4. Add Storage
If possible, adding a small shed or storage chest is a great way to add value to your property and increase the chances of selling your house quickly. When surveyed about the features that add the most value to a garden, 82% of property professionals and estate agents put the humble garden shed at the top of their list.
While adding storage will take up space, it can also maximise a small garden by keeping everything organised and compartmentalised. It helps your garden look beautiful because you have somewhere to tidy away the clutter and mess. For reliable and durable storage options, consider duramax sheds, which are designed to keep your outdoor space neat while complementing your garden’s aesthetic.
5. Keep It Low Maintenance
If you’ve opted for a home with a small garden, the chances are that you lack the time or inclination to spend hours tending to plants and flowers. Choose low maintenance designs, plants and features to ensure that you can easily keep the garden looking at its best.
If you’re planning to sell your property, a garden that requires minimal upkeep will appeal to a broad range of buyers, from busy young professionals to families and retirees.
Stick to two or three varieties of plants or flowers – the fewer different needs you have to cater for, the easier it will be to keep everything alive and thriving. Use automated garden technology such as sprinklers to reduce your workload. And add gravel or paved areas to reduce the need for mowing grass.
If you only have a small garden, there is plenty you can do to make the most of the space available. With a little thought and consideration for de-cluttering and low-maintenance options, you can create a practical and attractive garden that adds value and appeals to potential house buyers.