A good garden renovation can turn your small garden into a luxurious retreat, a social spot or a family zone. Whether you’re doing a small garden makeover or a big project, planning is key to success. Here we’ll run through the key parts of any garden renovation from overgrown shrubs to a new patio. This article will also give you some tips on how to save along the way.
Where to Start with Your Garden Renovation
Starting a garden renovation can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into manageable steps will help you stay on track.
1. Planning Your Garden Makeover
The first step of any garden makeover is careful planning. Planning is key for a successful garden makeover, whether you have a small garden or a bigger space. Spend some time thinking about how you want to use your outdoor space:
- Seating Area: Do you want a peaceful seating area to sit and soak up the sun? Adding some comfy furniture to a patio or balcony can create a lovely spot to sit.
- Paths and Patios: Well designed paths and patios can improve the flow and accessibility of your garden. Paving or decking materials like stone or wood can be chosen to match the style of your landscape design.
Think about both form and function. A good landscape design can add value to your home and make your garden a selling feature of your property.
2. Clearing and Preparing Your Garden
Before you start planting and landscaping you need to clear out the overgrown shrubs, weeds and old plants. Overgrown areas can look messy and neglected but with some elbow grease they can be turned into beautiful spaces. Here’s how to do garden clearance:
- Skips for Easy Waste Removal: A skip can save you time and effort during a garden renovation. Whether you’re removing debris, shrubs or old turf a skip is a convenient way to manage garden waste so your next project runs smoothly. Clearing any waste can be a major challenge for many people trying to renovate their gardens, The Skip Company provide skips of all shapes and sizes, perfect for any job including major garden clear out.
- Soil Preparation: Once the garden is cleared it’s time to think about soil. Healthy soil is the base of any planting project. Enrich it with compost and fertilisers to boost its nutrient levels.
3. Plants, Shrubs and Trees
The right plants, shrubs and trees will add beauty, texture and interest to your garden all year round. When choosing plants for your small garden makeover or bigger landscape remember:
- Low Maintenance Plants: If you want to save time and money choose low maintenance plants that don’t need constant attention. Flower beds filled with perennials and hardy shrubs can look lovely without the need for excessive watering or pruning.
- Trees for Shade and Structure: Trees are great for shade and structure in your garden. They can also give you more privacy in your outdoor space.
4. Patio or Decking
A patio or decking can be the centrepiece of your outdoor space, a place to entertain, dine or just chill. When thinking about this addition to your garden consider:
- Small Patios for Small Spaces: Even a small garden can benefit from a well placed patio. A small patio or paved area near the house can be an extension of your indoor living space and create a natural flow from indoors to outdoors.
- Materials and Budget: Choose patio materials that fit your budget and style. Stone, concrete and wood are popular options. Remember the cost of materials can vary greatly so compare options to find the best for your project.
5. Lawn and Turf
A green lawn can be the jewel of any garden but it requires maintenance and planning. Whether you’re laying new turf or refreshing your existing lawn here are some tips:
- Turf vs Seed: If you’re on a budget seeding your lawn might be the cheapest option. But turf gives you instant results and a more polished look.
- Lawn Maintenance: Regular mowing, feeding and watering are essential to keep your grass looking fresh and healthy. Consider adding a water feature nearby to enhance the natural beauty of your lawn.
6. Fencing and Privacy Features
Fencing provides privacy and adds a beautiful border to your garden. A well placed fence can define your space, keep out unwanted animals and give you a sense of security.
- Fencing Options: Choose fencing materials that match your garden’s style. Wooden fences are a popular choice for natural, rustic gardens while metal or vinyl options are more modern.
7. Cheap Garden Makeover Ideas
Garden renovation doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. With a few clever choices you can transform your space without breaking the bank. Here are some budget ideas:
- Upcycle Materials: Use old materials like bricks, wood or containers to create new garden features like paths or planters.
- DIY Projects: Save money by doing some of the smaller landscaping jobs yourself like planting or building simple garden beds.
8. Professional Contractors
For bigger garden renovations you may need to hire professional contractors especially for the more complex jobs like patios, decking or fencing. A professional garden designer can help you make the most of your space and ensure your project runs smoothly.
- Choosing the Right Contractor: Research contractors with garden makeover experience to get the best price and quality for your project. Make sure they understand your vision, budget and time frame.
9. Finishing Touches for a Chilled Outdoor Space
Once the big renovation jobs are done focus on the finishing touches. These small details can enhance the beauty and functionality of your garden:
- Lighting: Add solar powered or LED lights along paths or flower beds to create a relaxing atmosphere.
- Outdoor Furniture: Choose weather resistant and attractive furniture to create a seating area.
- Water Features: A small fountain or birdbath can add a bit of serenity to your garden.
Your Next Project
With planning, the right materials and a bit of imagination your garden renovation can be a breeze. From new patios to flowering beds there are many ways to transform your outdoor space into a beautiful and functional area. Whether you’re doing a small makeover or a big landscape job take time to focus on the details, choose the right contractors and manage your budget well. You’ll end up with a garden that adds value to your home, is a retreat and looks great on your property.
For your garden makeover don’t forget to hire a skip from The Skip Company to make the process easy and green. From soil to plant waste a skip can save you time and money and get your project done.