Doing Your Garden Up Ahead Of Summer
As the days grow longer and the promise of warmer weather beckons, now is the perfect time to prepare your garden for summer. A well-kept outdoor space offers more than just visual appeal—it becomes an extension of your home, a place to relax, socialise, and reconnect with nature.
Whether you’re working with a compact patio or a sprawling lawn, a few thoughtful updates can breathe new life into your garden and create an environment to enjoy all season long.
Clean & Clear the Canvas
Every great garden project starts with a clean slate. Begin by removing weeds and pruning overgrown plants to encourage healthy growth. Clear away fallen leaves and other debris that may have accumulated over the winter. For hard surfaces like patios, paths, and decking, a good pressure wash can make a dramatic difference—instantly refreshing tired-looking areas and revealing their true colours.
Refresh Lawn and Borders
If your lawn is looking a little worse for wear, reseeding patchy areas can restore its lushness. Mow regularly, but be sure to keep blades high to avoid stressing the grass. Define edges around flower beds and pathways to give your garden a crisp, professional appearance. Fertilise appropriately and keep on top of watering to promote strong, vibrant growth throughout the season.
Colour Up With Plants
Summer is all about bold, blooming colour. Introduce seasonal plants such as petunias, marigolds, and geraniums for a cheerful palette. Use climbers and shrubs to add height and texture, and consider trees for shade and structure. To add interest and flexibility, plant in a variety of containers including beds, pots, and hanging baskets—ideal for smaller spaces or experimenting with new layouts.
Build Features and Focal Points
Create a sense of purpose and style by adding focal features to your garden. Raised beds are a great choice for growing herbs and vegetables and make gardening more accessible. A trellis or pergola can act as a frame for climbing plants while also adding vertical interest. For a cosy evening atmosphere, consider installing a fire pit or a water feature to introduce soothing sounds and reflective surfaces.
Revamp Furniture: Spray Painting Garden Chairs
Don’t overlook your garden furniture – especially metal chairs, which can become weather-worn over time. A simple yet transformative project is to revitalise them with spray paint. You can achieve a range of finishes using good quality paints designed for metal surfaces, from bold block colours or sleek metallics, through to more decorative finishes like a crackle or marble effect. For added durability and weather resistance, seal with a clear varnish in your choice of gloss, semi-gloss, or matte. With a bit of care, your chairs can look refreshed and stylish, ready to complement your summer setup.
Add Lighting and Ambience
Good lighting can transform a garden as daylight fades. Line walkways with solar-powered path lights or drape fairy lights along fences and trellises for a magical evening glow. Lanterns and candles add warmth and intimacy to seating areas, making them ideal for entertaining. Look for energy-efficient and weather-resistant options to get the most out of your setup.
Wildlife-Friendly Touches
A vibrant garden is also a haven for local wildlife. Choose plants that attract bees and butterflies, such as lavender and echinacea. Install bird feeders, birdbaths, and insect hotels to support birds, pollinators, and beneficial bugs. Even a small wild patch left to grow naturally can offer food and shelter for many species, boosting your garden’s ecological value.
Low-Maintenance Garden Hacks
If time or energy is limited, opt for smart gardening solutions. Artificial grass provides a neat look with zero mowing, while drought-tolerant plants like sedum and lavender reduce the need for constant watering. Self-watering pots and drip irrigation systems are a great investment for keeping your garden healthy with less daily upkeep.
