Monday, February 6, 2012

6 Design Tips For a Small Garden

Tip One:
A successful design for a small garden in a town or city is centred on a hard structure such as a paved or hard surface area. The planting beds should also play a pivotal role by providing a distinct focal point that sets the tone of the garden especially, if it can be viewed clearly from inside the house.
Tip Two:
Begin your planting with a small set of structural plants as this will set the gardens theme. Use other matching plants to build up the planting beds. As with any small urban garden keep the structure simple as over complicating things will make it look overcrowded.
Tip Three:
If you want a low maintenance garden then minimise the use of grass lawns and replace this with either paving or decking. You can also have a low maintenance garden by the plants you use and where you plant them. For example, choose plants that are evergreen such as shrubs and long grasses in different shades to add more variation and colour. Construct raised beds as designated planting areas as this will stop the plants spreading out and keeps them in confined areas where they are easily controlled.
Tip Four:
If you live in a dry climate then, you need to ensure the soil and your plants do not starve of water and dry out. You can prevent this by using mulch on a regular basis to prevent the loss of moisture from the soil. Plant low growing plants that spread out and make sure you irrigate them early in the morning and late in the evening. Consider using Mediterranean or desert plants such as cacti or shrubs like lavender as they enjoy growing in dry conditions.
Tip Five:
The design of the garden is also very important. For example, in small urban gardens with limited space the design you choose can enhance the sense of space and area. For a small urban garden use a design that incorporates long straight lines. For larger gardens you can incorporate more curves and circle shapes to provide a softer look and theme.
Tip Six:
Due to the limited area in small urban gardens the use of accessories can help to create more of an impact to your design. You can incorporate lighting to accentuate warmth. You can use outdoor mirrors that can be attached to walls to increase the perception of space. You can also use garden furniture to create a focal point and sitting area.

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