11 small features that can transform your garden
The glorious Spring is fast approaching where we can spend time outdoors in our gardens. Whether you have a small garden or a large one, there is plenty of extra features you can add alongside your flowers and plants. Garden features can be a great way to add an extra touch to displays and transform your garden. But for those of us with smaller gardens, we may not have the space to add large features. So, here’s 11 small features that can help transform your garden.
See how you can start preparing your garden now ready for spring.
1. Wall galleries
If you have very little space for garden beds or planters, you could consider creating a gallery on an outdoor wall. Putting up hanging baskets and wall baskets can be a great way for you to include more flowers in your garden while maximising your space. In just the same way you would hang pictures inside, the idea works the same with baskets. You don’t need to buy the baskets either. You can get creative making your own. Just remember to include a drainage hole to prevent the baskets becoming waterlogged. The same idea could also be used on your garden fences.
2. Mirror, mirror…
You may think this sounds like a crazy idea, but hanging a mirror up outside can be a great way to transform your garden. If you are limited with space, hanging a mirror can give the illusion that your garden is much bigger than it actually is. You could then eat alfresco style by putting a table and chairs in front. If you do decide to hang a mirror up outdoors, be mindful that birds could fly into it. Ouch! To try and prevent this from happening, use a grid style that breaks the mirror up into sections.
3. Hanging furniture
I’m sure we’ve all seen a tyre hanging from a tree, acting as a makeshift swing. The same principle can be applied to your garden furniture. If you have very little floor space, adding hanging furniture can be a great way to transform your garden. It also helps to give the illusion of more space. Chairs, such as bamboo, wicker, and rattan, can be a great furniture item to consider hanging in a nice cosy little corner.
4. Mini greenhouse
Another feature that can help transform your garden is adding a mini greenhouse. Similar to a propagator, a mini greenhouse replicates the glass features of an ordinary greenhouse but condenses the space into a cabinet style design. Then you can get all the benefits of a greenhouse for growing your plants in a smaller garden space. Perfect!
5. Window planters
Using sleepers (or planters) can be a great way to add a touch of versatility. If you are limited with space, adding sleepers underneath your window ledges can help give you that little extra room for planting. If you like growing herbs, window planters are ideal. You can just open the kitchen window and take what you need. There are also the added benefits of painting and decorating them to your taste!
6. Decorative planters
If you want to transform your garden, consider decorative planters. Decorative planters are a step up from your normal planters, as they serve as both an attractive feature and a place to grow plants. Decorative planters can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including porcelain planters, animal shaped designs, or even wishing wells. Try one and see how it can add a little extra something to your garden.
7. Water features
No park is complete without a water feature, and your garden can be transformed with a water feature too. We’re not suggesting you get a massive water fountain for your garden, as it probably won’t fit, and the water cost would be astronomical! Instead, consider a small water feature. Most water features are small and can easily fit within a small garden or space. Adding one can give your garden a focal point and help create a relaxing atmosphere.
8. Hammock
Ever fancy just lying in a sun on a hot summer’s day? A hammock can be a great addition to any garden. Putting up a hammock can provide you with a cosy and comfortable place to lie back and enjoy the sun, or a read good book. The great thing about hammock’s is that they can easily fit in small spaces and can be taken down if necessary.
9. Raised beds
Anyone who cannot find the space in their gardens for storing tools and planting flowers will love this feature. Raised beds gives you the opportunity to house 2 things at once. The top of the raised bed acts as your planter for plants and flowers. Then, underneath is space to store garden tools and accessories. Handy if you do not have room for a shed. You can also hang some of your garden tools off the planter as well if you’re really pushed for space.
10. Plant anywhere
Some plants, such as drought resistant plants, can usually be planted anywhere as they require very little watering. If you have anything lying around the garden that can hold a plant in, consider using it. This can range from an old bucket to an old toolbox. Just remember to make sure you leave a drainage hole at the bottom to prevent waterlog.
11. Mini shed
Our last small feature that can transform your garden is a mini shed. If you are stuck for space but have some gardening tools and equipment that need to be safely stored away from the elements, a mini shed is ideal. Mini sheds are the same as normal garden sheds except for the size. Typically, mini sheds are just big enough for one person to stand inside. You can also get mini sheds that come in even smaller sizes, if you are really stuck for space.
There are so many small features that you can use in your garden to help transform the space. No matter how small your garden may be, there are garden features and ornaments that anyone can use to make the most out of the space. Why not try a couple out this year to add some style and sophistication to your gardens during the summer months!