Whether you live in an apartment with a tiny patio or a house with a postage stamp-sized yard, there are many ways to make the most of your outdoor space.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of designing and planting a big garden when you have just a small space to work with. But even if you have only one or two potted plants or a handful of pots on your balcony or patio, there are plenty of ways to make those plants look great — and keep them healthy. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of a small outdoor space:
Go vertical
One way to maximize the use of your outdoor space is by going vertical. A trellis can be used as a focal point, or create a privacy screen with vines and flowering plants like Morning Glory or Clematis. If there’s room in your yard, consider adding a pergola or arbor covered with climbing roses or honeysuckle. You can also create a vertical garden by using wooden pallets and planting herbs, vegetables or flowers on them. A vertical garden is a great way of showing off a smaller space with beautiful plants and flowers…who said bigger is better?!
Make the most of a patio
A patio isn’t just for entertaining! If you have an empty corner on your patio that doesn’t get much sun, consider installing a fire pit for roasting marshmallows or enjoying an evening al fresco drink with friends and family this summer. There are many different types of fire pits and chimineas available that will complement any garden design style — from modern to rustic — so you’re sure to find one that fits your home’s personality perfectly.
Variety is the spice of life
Don’t be afraid to use a variety of plants. Plants add color and texture to any garden, but there’s no need to stick with just one type. You can mix it up by using different varieties of flowers or foliage, in pots or hanging baskets. Just make sure that you don’t put too many plants together or they’ll compete for nutrients and water from the soil. If you’re not sure which flowers and plants look good together, do some research to get some inspiration – What Flowers Grow Well Together? Try These 28 Pretty Combinations (bhg.com)
Let there be light
Outdoor lighting can make a huge impact on any space, and is a great, easy way to add some ambiance with minimal effort and cost. Fairy lights can instantly add a magical atmosphere and can be hung across a back wall, draped over railings or even wrapped around trees. Lanterns are another eye-catching way to add some sparkle without being too overwhelming — they come in all shapes and sizes and can be placed anywhere around your garden or yard, as long as they are LED or positioned by an electricity outlet.
Space-saving furniture
If you’re limited on space but still want a few pieces of furniture to lounge around on sunny days, then pick your pieces carefully. Opt for items that double as storage options, or ones which can easily be moved out of the way when not in use. There are many compact outdoor furniture options to create an ideal arrangement, which can still look the part when needed.
Why not consider a folding table and chairs which can be brought outside for an intimate dinner party with friends, or a lovely wooden bench to offer extra seating and storage for cushions or throws.
No matter how big your outdoor space is, we hope this blog post has given you some inspiration to get your garden or yard looking tip top for the summer months ahead.