A garden is so much more than an outdoor area; it’s a private place for you and your loved ones to relax, socialise and retreat from busy life. Gardens are also great ways to put your stamp on a property, and there’s so much you can do to bring them to life.
If you’re on a budget and want to create a beautiful garden, you might feel it’s out of reach – but guess what? There are some excellent cost-effective tips that will elevate your outdoor space without breaking the bank.
So, if your garden is more old and tired than lush and refreshing, stay tuned. We’re about to reveal some top tips.
Use flowers
Flowers are fantastic solutions for brightening your garden, and they’re also ideal if you’re on a budget. Sometimes, all your outdoor space needs is a bit of colour, and grabbing a few plant pots can make a huge difference.
Better still, there are plenty of flowers that thrive in British gardens. They include:
- Daisies
- Roses
- Sunflowers
- Tulips
- Lavender
You can also create some aromatic smells by planting herbs, such as mint, rosemary and thyme – which taste delicious and add some life to your outdoor space.
Create a vegetable garden
Home-grown vegetables are not only tasty but can also be a great way of decorating your garden. To plant some delicious edibles, check out the best vegetables for UK gardens. They include:
- Carrots
- Courgettes
- Tomatoes
- Peas
- French beans
- Cucumbers
- Onions
Another benefit of vegetable patches is they add colour to your outdoor space and promote healthy eating. Consuming home-grown produce isn’t just beneficial for the environment; it’s also great for children, as you can use organic techniques to reduce the need for pesticides.
Create a patio area
Patio areas are always popular in low-maintenance gardens because they’re easy to install and don’t require much upkeep. If you want to create a relaxing space where people can gather, a patio is much easier than a lawn, and there are some great designs out there.
You don’t have to stick to traditional concrete; you can also go for patio slabs or decking, which look great and last a long time.
Pavers are also a great idea because they come in various finishes, and porcelain options emulate natural stone – without the associated costs or maintenance. Don’t be afraid to lay the slabs yourself to keep costs down.
Say goodbye to weeds
Let’s face it; nobody wants to deal with weeds, and they can turn any space into a messy, unappealing garden. To keep weeds away, you can either invest in weed killers or use a natural method to prevent them from growing.
Natural methods require more work, but they are eco-friendly and protect any wildlife in your garden. All you need to do is place mulch and compost around your vegetable patches and flower beds to retain the soil’s moisture and prevent weeds from breaking through.
Pesticides are quicker to use, but choose the least dangerous brand to protect wildlife.
Repurpose old furniture
If you want to make your garden look more inviting, consider repurposing some of the furniture you already have. It saves money and brings new life into your outdoor space, enabling you to turn tired furniture into modern pieces.
A lick of paint could be the only thing you need, but you could also reupholster your garden furniture. Not only does this save money, but it’s also a sustainable option and prevents landfill waste.
Paint the fence
Sometimes, all you need is a bit of colour – paint is the best way to update your space. Turn boring brown fences into a modern statement, and you’ll be amazed at its impact on your garden.
Burnt oranges and deep blues give a Moroccan vibe, or you can change the fence type to create a tropical theme. If you want a modern aesthetic, why not paint the fence black or gun-metal?
There’s so much you can do with your fence; the right colours will elevate your entire garden and make it look more spacious.
Use a landscape designer
Hiring a landscape designer when you’re on a budget might sound counterintuitive – but the right service can save you money. Landscape designers can take any space and come up with unique ways to maximise it.
If you want to reimagine your space, working with a landscape design service will ensure you can create a beautiful garden that doesn’t break your budget and will last for years.
Encourage wildlife
Encouraging wildlife in your garden is a great way to make it look more attractive without spending any money. Planting flowers, shrubs and trees that attract bees, birds, and butterflies will give your space a vibrant feel and help the environment.
The sounds of birds chirping and butterflies fluttering can also be relaxing and an ideal way to destress after a stressful day. Also, you’re helping the environment and giving animals a habitat that will be mutually beneficial.
To protect the wildlife you invite, you’ll need to avoid pesticides and focus on organic gardening instead. Some soil chemicals might also be dangerous, so consult a gardener or ask the local garden centre for advice.
If you install a pond, you should also have guards to protect the fish from cats.
Use lighting strategically
Lastly, the key to brightening your garden is to use lighting. The right garden lights can set the mood and emphasise different features. Sustainable options include solar-powered lighting, but you can also use fairy lights for a magical look.
Creating an outdoor lounge is also really popular at the moment, but make sure you choose furniture and lighting options suitable for outdoor use.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, this post shows you that it is possible to create a stunning garden – whatever your budget might be. Once you know how to plan the space, you can maximise your budget and focus on the features you want to incorporate.
If you need some help along the way, please feel free to contact our friendly gardening service. We’re always happy to help and will go out of our way to exceed your expectations, regardless of your budget.
