26 Aug 2019

Your garden should be your own little spot of nature, peace, to catch some fresh air and of course some sun. Whether the size of a small balcony, generous courtyard, or acre of land, whatever the shape and size of your garden, it can always be upgraded into something spectacular to suit you.

Your garden should be your own little spot of nature, peace, to catch some fresh air and of course some sun.

Here are 12 smart ideas to play with in your backyard, even in tiny spaces:

1. Mirrors

It’s time to drop the idea that mirrors are only an indoor accessory, because they can fit just as well in your back garden. Whether to enhance the garden space, reflect the beauty of your ivy cascading down the wall of your house, traditional and contemporary outdoor mirrors are available to suit all gardens.

2. Trellis climbers

With smaller gardens, it’s important to add visual interest at higher points, to draw the attention up and away from the small floor space. As an investment, plant some climbers and hang a trellis, and take advantage of Mother Nature’s ability to add some bursts of colour to a bland fence or wall.

3. Potted plants

Although it may be recommended to plant your flowers and trees in the ground, it’s not entirely necessary. The great thing with potted plants is the ability to rearrange your landscape whenever the need for change strikes you. Perch pots on walls, tables and near seating and experiment with different colours to see what works well in your garden.

4. Fence cover

If your fence looks a bit worse for wear, but the prospect of waiting for your climbing plants to cover the dull wood is taking too long, invest in a faux ivy/hedge wall. This option is both cost effective, convenient and will fit in with most garden schemes.

5. Hammock

You may have seen this idea in the movies, but never considered it being a reality. The relaxation you will experience from hanging out in your hammock or hammock chair is unreal, and it is something that will fit in most garden areas with ease. Try it – it is quirky and fun, and you just might love it.

6. Strategic lighting

Lighting is your friend when it comes to brightening up a dull garden space. Smart techniques that do not require using too much electricity are solar lights (fantastic for creating a welcoming display in your garden). From solar stakes you can plug in the ground or your plant pots to lights that can be perched on top of your fence panels, there are plenty of garden lighting options to fit the appearance you want to create in your garden.

7. Paint

A smart and cheap way to make a statement in your garden and to brighten up tiny spaces is to paint. Whether it’s the fence panels, walls, shed, plant pots, or garden furniture, paint knows no bounds. Experiment with samples to see what colour creates the vibe you’re looking for. Is the idea of a Mediterranean-style garden with a white wall backdrop your idea of heaven? Or do vibrant hues of pink and orange on the garden furniture tickle your fancy?

8. Shelving

A method that is particularly great for utilising small crevices is shelving. Whether to store garden tools in weatherproof boxes or show off your potted plants, seashells, or solar tea lights. Shelving will add functional space and interest to tiny areas instantly.

9. Window planters

If floor space is tight, and your dream of beautiful flowers welcoming you in your garden seems like a far cry, fear not. To jazz up the outdoors and add visual pleasantness as you step outside to hang the washing or sip your morning tea, window planters could be the perfect alternative for your garden.

10. Soft furnishings

It’s not always necessary to buy new furniture or even paint your existing furniture. Sometimes a few new handpicked or even handmade textiles could add style and comfort to your garden.

11. Custom-made bar

The braai area is a given, but what about your own custom-made bar for those summer nights of cocktails and laughter? Save yourself from traipsing to and from the kitchen to make beverages and set up your own smart outdoor bar. No one will have to walk more than a meter or two to grab a drink – bliss.

12. Ornaments

For a smart, instant impact on your garden space, think about decorations. If you’re going for a modern, clean-cut feel, look at chrome-effect ornaments such as steel balls. Alternatively, gnomes are great for endearing and entertaining little ones, or wildlife such as squirrels and hedgehogs add a nice touch to a garden steeped in greenery.

Article courtesy of www.home-dzine.co.za