The garden is a quintessential part of the British home, whether it is a rooftop aluminium oasis in Mayfair or a poppy-filled field in the countryside. Gardens come in all shapes and sizes and a clever design will enhance the space you live in, adding to your everyday life and living experience.

Consider What You Want from Your Outside Space

Careful consideration should be given as to how you wish to use your outside space and its location in relation to the surrounding area. For example. if you have small children (or animals) a pond or river would prevent responsible adults from relaxing and if you should have Japanese knot weed you, as a home owner, you are legally bound to treat it.

A garden that has been carefully planted with perennials and an evergreen palette of emerald and gold euonymus, raspberry coloured azaleas or sweetly perfumed honeysuckle will be an idyll that you cannot wait to walk in. You will need to know your ‘secateurs from your forks’, or know someone who does to keep the plants looking their best.

If you’re not a passionate gardener but prefer a classic jug of Pimms with friends or clients then a raised slate seating area, complete with water cascading down rills amongst sculptural red Japanese acers might be better so you have minimal upkeep but with hopefully maximum enjoyment. With clever lighting solutions, gardens can be enjoyed both day and night.

Beware Problem Plants

There are very few problem plants, only people who inadvertently put them in the wrong spot. A new home with an ancient Bramley (apple) tree needs ‘dry-shade’ and can they be under planted with Geranium macrorrhizum, epimediums and some fabulous ferns to give you a magical woodland feel, as well as apple crumble and custard!

There are a few poisonous plants for young children and pets but most nurseries will be able to give you advice about these, if needed.

Gardens Give You Opportunities to Make Friends

Your garden can easily become a source of new friendships and allow you and your family to quickly become part of the local community. People will always admire a garden and often like to tell you so.

There are horticultural groups throughout the UK with speakers (who are often household names) and you don’t have to be a gardener to join. The National Garden Scheme started in the early 1900s, where people (aristocracy and ordinary people) open their gardens for charity. Visiting these gardens often gives you great ideas and inspiration as well as a fresh network of local people to chat to.

For more information about buying your next home, please contact Premier Property Search on 01962 793100 or email enquiries@premier-propertysearch.co.uk