This has been a tough year for gardeners, with a cold spring followed by a drought. Many plants, vegetables, and fruit trees have failed to thrive, suffered reduced production, or required considerably more effort to maintain than usual. Thinking ahead to next year, here are some suggestions to simplify your life and achieve a chic garden.
1. Get rid of the grass
If your lawn is a sad patch of brown dust at the moment, replacing it shouldn’t be an emotional pull. Decking is a versatile alternative, or you could opt for decorative paving or artificial grass.
2. Choose the right plants for your garden
It is impossible to predict next year’s weather patterns, so opt for hardy plants that are most likely to survive. Use an online plant selector to decide which plants are most likely to thrive and bring you pleasure.
3. Choose potted plants
Pots can add a delightful pop of colour to your garden, even in the bleakest of weather conditions. By potting rather than planting your shrubs and flowers, you gain greater control over their moisture and sunlight exposure. If they die, they are easier to replace.
4. Install decorative features
Decorative metalwork is an ideal alternative to live vegetation, guaranteeing colour and style year-round. Sculptures, silhouettes, and wrought iron railings from a traditional blacksmith, such as https://donkeywellforge.co.uk/what-we-make/wrought-iron-railings/, are all well suited to this purpose.
5. Choose low-maintenance plants
Bedding plants are short-lived and require regular re-planting to maintain a stunning display. Instead, consider planting perennials or evergreens to provide colour year-round.