With the days getting longer, you’ll no doubt be starting to think about spending evenings out in the garden and entertaining friends and family. Rather than waiting for that time to come around, you can get ahead of things with a few additions to your outdoor space. With the right set-up, you’ll be primed to maximise your outside space in 2025.
Multifunctional outdoor furniture
With the average UK garden measuring only 16m², it’s important to ensure you’re making as much as possible of the space you have available.
Garden furniture is always going to take up a large amount of room, so try to look for pieces that you can utilise in as many ways as possible.
For example, you could get a table that includes a fire pit to avoid the need for a separate barbecue or chiminea. Modular seating can stop you from wasting room unnecessarily too.
Rain harvesting systems
The global climate continues to get warmer, and one of the side effects – albeit a minor one in the grand scheme of things – in the UK is an increased frequency of hosepipe bans and water shortages. This can be disastrous if you grow vegetables or have a beautifully landscaped garden.
To avoid all your hard work going to waste, ensure you have a backup source of water. You can use guttering to siphon rainwater – of which there’s typically a lot in the winter and spring – into a large butt instead of simply letting it flow down the drain. If there does end up being a ban in the summer, then you’ve got a tank of water in reserve that you can count on.
Smart gardening technology
Wi-fi enabled devices are becoming increasingly prevalent in homes across the country, so you won’t be surprised to discover that the garden hasn’t been forgotten about.
From automated watering systems to robotic lawnmowers and photosensitive solar light systems, there are many ways you can use technology to manage your garden more efficiently. Not only does it take away some of the strain that can come with gardening, but it can also boost the health and appearance of your outdoor space.
Vertical gardening solutions
It can be tough to balance presentation and practicality in a smaller garden. You’ll find it easier to find that point if you incorporate trellises, wall planters and hanging baskets. They don’t put any of the floor space off limits but still enable you to add some visual interest.
While it may not be traditional, you can still grow produce in smaller containers hung on a wall or fence. Aubergines, cucumbers and an array of herbs and salad leaves can work well.
Composting systems
Many councils collect food waste now, but you could always set up a compost bin and use it to your own benefit. It’ll help you create nutrient-rich soil for growing, taking your growing experiences to new heights! This is probably better in a larger garden, so you don’t get overwhelmed by the smell.
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