From small backyard to large courtyards, no gardener should ever underestimate the importance of garden planning. Here's why:
There's nothing better than getting out in the garden and improving your property's outdoor space, whether you are maintaining your outdoor space or completely renovating your outside area, it is important to put a plan together in order to make the most out of your garden.
From the design and layout, to the style and types of plants you should plant in your garden, there are many aspects of your garden design that need a thought through plan.
And we're not always talking CAD designs and in-depth drawings here, in fact, your garden plan may simply be a list of the plants you'll lay in the sunny areas and those you'll place in the shade, as well as at what point of the year is best to start growing them.
From small backyard to large courtyards, no gardener should ever underestimate the importance of garden planning. Here's why:
1. A garden plan ensures you make the most of your plants
It sounds basic but plant seeds that need sunlight in a shaded area, and you'll grow nothing but an ill-looking flower that needs some extra TLC. Likewise, plant a seed that needs shade in sunlight and you'll dry it out completely. Either way, you're highly unlikely to get a garden flourishing without planning and research on what your plants need.
Not only does a garden plan come in handy when deciding where to plant your seeds, it also points you in the right direction of when they'll need most maintenance in order to keep them as healthy as possible.
2. A garden plan helps make sure your garden is fit for purpose
A garden plan is important to help you piece together exactly what you are using your garden for. When property owners plan their garden based on what they mainly want to use it for, there is a clear purpose to the garden and the space seems to work harmoniously as an extra 'room' of your property (albeit an outdoor one!).
For example, you may wish to save space for a trampoline or outdoor play equipment if you have children, or you may prioritise the space for a vegetable garden, nearer to the kitchen or back door etc.
3. A garden plan can make small gardens look bigger
While many people believe that small gardens are less sought after than large gardens, making sure you plan your small garden thoroughly can help you make the most of your space and make the garden look bigger.
You may consider a vertical garden, for example, or perhaps a minimalist patio design or larger lawn space.
4. Save money
A garden plan can, undoubtedly, help you save money. Whether it is because you make less errors when overhauling your garden or save money on growing plants unsuitably, making sure your garden is well planned can help keep more savings in your pocket.
5. Make an eco-friendly garden
Planning your garden makes it much simpler to make it as environmentally friendly as possible.
Just like planning your waste, food waste and recycling, planning your garden allows you to make space for composting, and thinking about where you could place eco-friendly pest deterrents. You may also want to think about installing a water butt.
You may want to maximise the greenery in your garden or use recycled water for a water feature.
Thinking about making a change in your garden?
Whether it is a complete overhaul or a minor change, putting a garden plan in place undoubtedly has its benefits. Whether you choose to create the plan yourself or hire a garden designer, having a garden plan is a great way to make your space more practical and suitable for your individual position.
