A garden that’s the envy of the neighbours is something we’d all like to aspire to, but sadly, not all of us are naturals at designing and landscaping our outdoor spaces. Having artificial grass installed is one way to ensure the lawn stays lush all year round, but how can you inject some colour without having to spend hours tending to plants?
We’ve put our heads together to come up with some great, low maintenance ways to brighten things up.
Add a lick of paint
Something as simple as painting a wall, fence or shed with a vibrant colour (not the usual greens or browns) is an easy yet effective way to add a splash of colour. Be sure to buy paint that’s designed to be used outdoors, and allow yourself to get creative. Blue is gorgeous in combination with terracotta and gives a Mediterranean feel to your garden. Or try a sunny yellow to bring warmth even on those dark winter days.
Pave the way
Paving and gravel can instantly lighten up your garden and introduce colour that is easy to maintain. There’s a wide range of products on the market now, so you needn’t stick to creams or greys – paving slabs and slate chippings can be bought in blues, purples, reds…you name it. Make a feature out of your paved or gravelled area by adding a water feature or outdoor seating. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could create a more intricate design using several colours.
Pot up
If you’re more green-fingered but too busy to tend to your garden regularly, simply accessorise with brightly coloured pots. Available in a variety of sizes and colours from pink and orange to lime green, pots are a fabulous way to achieve that instant dash of colour. Planting them up with hardy perennials such as hostas, primroses and geraniums means you get a great display of flowers without having to tend them too carefully.
Furnish and finish
Outdoor furnishings are the perfect opportunity to revitalise your garden. Whether you have wood or metal furniture, it can be painted in any way you choose to give the space a lift. Nautical and seaside themes come into fashion time and again, so whites and blues will add lasting style, especially when paired with decking or a pond. If you’re not ready to paint the furniture itself, simply buy some colourful cushions and a parasol to match – you’ll be amazed at what a difference these small touches can make.
Accessorise
Accessories are an easy way to create interest through shape and colour. There are lots of garden ornaments and pretty screens available to suit all tastes. If you have room, quirky sculptures can make your outdoor space lively all year round. There are some truly stunning designs out there that could provide an attractive focal point for larger or longer gardens, and make the whole area feel like the work of a Chelsea designer.