Jan 2011 - Winter Gardening

As much as as it was nice to take time out over Christmas and New Year, I am so glad to be back outside.  Yes it's cold, yes it's wet, but it's also where the freshest air and the best of the light is.

So if you're suffering a bit from the festive break why not get outside and get ahead in the garden.  There are plenty of jobs to do this time of year and having a good clear up can be really rewarding.  On dry days your kids may want to be out playing, but even when the garden is not being used you want it to look good from inside to make the most of your views.

Here are some maintenance jobs you can do:

• Patios and decking can be swept using a firm brush to help remove any algae buildup.
• Plants that have not survived the icy December can be dug out and removed
• Vegetable plots can be 'top dressed' with compost, manure or other soil improvers
• Repair any fencing that have been damaged by wind
• The compost heap can be turned

This time of year is also good to start thinking about any changes for the garden. Whether you are looking for complete design and build, or only want to re-fresh an element, start your planning now. Any work completed in the next few months means you have clear use from Spring onwards.

When designing a garden you need to consider who is using the garden and what they want from it, not just now, but over the next few years too.  It is best to start with a wish list rating each item as either essential, important or desired.  This will then help prioritise your space. 

Maintenance should also be considered at the design stage.  If you are happy to spend the time maintaining a garden or you have the resources to pay someone to do this for you, then your design choices are extensive. 

In terms of planting you need to know what areas have sun and shade, what soil type you have, and also how exposed the area is to wind and frost.  Once you have this information the planning can continue in earnest.

Most gardens have greater floor space than the homes to which they belong, which is why I believe we should set our expectation for the garden highly, to get as much use as possible.

You also need to consider the role of wildlife in the garden. If you want to attract birds, and beneficial insects you need to incorporate their needs too.

If you are on a limited budget but you still want to improve the impact of your outdoor space, then often the little touches will make all the difference.  It is these considerations that can transform a garden.  A spring tidy and mulching unkempt borders can give great impact with relative ease.  Adding a few inexpensive solar lights can create some ambience on a budget.  Even bamboo screening can be cheaply erected to hide more unsightly areas.

Some freshly planted pots can add colour and scents to your decking or patio, and storage of some kind can hide away unused tools or toys.

When planting always group in odd number as this looks more pleasing on the eye.  Also consider buying younger, cheaper plants and allowing them to mature over time.

Good Luck!!!

For more tips and advice please take a look at our website http://www.land-shapes.co.uk/index.html