As the summer months creep up on us, those with properties in Bristol with small outside spaces are bound to be eager to make the most of them!
So, here are seven tips on how to maximise even the smallest of gardens.
Create a Herb Garden
Herb gardens are a great place to start for beginner gardeners with only a small amount of space.
Herbs require very little room to flourish, so they can happily be planted on balconies or even window boxes. Essentially, any area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day permits you the space to grow a beautiful herb garden.
Herbs taste and appearance are altered by fertiliser, so this should be omitted from the soil. These are straightforward to grow though; a daily watering is enough for the plants to thrive. Additionally, herbs are incredibly tolerant to changing and cooler weather conditions, making them perfect for our unpredictable British seasons.
Sage, Parsley and Mint are three of the easiest to grow herbs. Conversely, Basil does not cope well in windy conditions, and therefore should only be planted where it can be afforded a great deal of shelter.
Use Mirrors in Your Garden
Mirrors can be used in the garden to create the same illusions we use them for inside our homes. They are also a fun way to add a distinctive design and personal flair to your outside area.
Attaching a mirror to one side of the fence can completely transform your garden. It gives the impression of a much larger space but also bounces the light around magically.
Divide Your Garden into Sections
If you are lucky enough to have a garden but lack the size you desire, creating designated areas can give the sense of a bigger space.
Ensure there is somewhere for relaxing, adding quality and well-fitting garden furniture. Overcrowding with chairs that are too large will make the garden feel more cramped and render the space useless.
Create a purposeful planting section. If you want to grow fruits and vegetables, use raised beds that all sit at different heights. This allows you to make the most of your space and looks incredibly stylish.
Add Hanging Baskets
For those who lack a massive amount of space, hanging baskets are a great way to add a splash of colour.
Petunias look particularly beautiful and can be used to frame doors and windows. Providing the basket is sturdy and has sufficient drainage, your Petunias will look fantastic with very little upkeep.
Hanging baskets can also be used to grow fruit and vegetables as a fun alternative for those who lack a traditional garden. Obviously, they are only appropriate for specific food items, but strawberries, tomatoes and small peppers can be grown happily in a hanging basket that receives plenty of sunlight.
Grow Plants Vertically
Growing vertically is the best way to garden in a very tight space. Attaching trellis or pots along the balcony or garden perimeter will maximise the number of plants and flowers your small area will permit.
Climbing plants such as Wisteria and Honeysuckle look stunning but can also offer a great deal of privacy for your outside space.
Attract Wildlife to Your Garden
Just because you don’t have an enormous garden doesn’t mean you can’t build one that attracts the local wildlife.
While there may not be enough space for an elaborate birdbath, there is more than likely enough room to hang a bird feeder, which will attract plenty to your outdoor area. Most of these feeders have a rim around the bottom for the birds to perch, meaning you do not have to build any other resting area.
Alternatively, consider hanging a bee hotel. These provide a sustainable nesting option for bees, a crucial part of the ecosystem in the UK.
For small gardens, allow wildflowers to grow around the perimeter. These look stunning and are a hassle-free way to inject colour into a small space. However, they are also great for insects, creating an ideal habitat.
Make Use of Communal Spaces
City centre living is becoming ever more popular, which usually comes at the sacrifice of outside space.
However, many blocks of flats are home to some form of communal outdoor area. This might be a shared garden or even a rooftop terrace.
Speak with your neighbours and consider how you can best use the space. It is unlikely you will be able to make any permanent changes; however, potted plants and vegetable beds can make a huge difference.
This will dramatically change the appearance of this communal area and be sure to bring the neighbourhood closer together.
Do you dream of a larger garden? Northwood Bristol are your local property experts for the Bristol area and we can help you find your dream home. Call us on 0117 9635777 or email bristol@northwooduk.com to chat with a member of our friendly and experienced team.
