So it’s time to think about what you are going to do with your garden this year and you want to give it a whole new look. If you are feeling lost as to where to begin, don’t despair because you are not alone. Many homeowners want to re-design their garden but can’t afford the cost of a professional landscaper. Here are a few DIY tips that can help you easily and affordably design a garden to suit both your tastes and your needs.

Make a Landscaping PlanThe first thing you will need to do is make a plan. You don’t need to be a graphic artist to draw out a plan for your garden as you will probably be the only one who ever sees it. Just sketch it out as you envision it so you can refer to it along the way. The only time consuming part is in thinking about the different elements you would like to include such as statuary, shrubs and perhaps even lighting. Little notations will work as long as you can understand your own chart!


Compare Costs
Take that plan you just completed and start browsing for good deals on any products you may need. From seeds, to plants to paint, tools and outdoor lights, take the time to do a comparison online so that you can start making a budget. Maybe you won’t get all your garden design goals met this year, so keep your plan tucked away for next year. Just start with the most important and work your way down from there.

Only Use Products that Are Durable
When you are doing an update or a new garden design, one thing to keep in mind is durability. Anything you use will be subject to extremes in weather so you need to keep that in mind. For example, using asphalt on drives into and out of homes can be a problem because they buckle and crack when exposed to extremes in temperature.
Whilst not technically a part of the garden, it is part of the overall appeal of your home and a poorly maintained drive can detract from the beauty of the garden you are working on. Stone is the preferred material for walks and drives (and garden paths!) so have a look at www.easypave.com for ideas on how to use stone to your advantage.


Research Plants that Work Well Together
When it comes to planting flowers, herbs, veggies, shrubs or any type of plant whatsoever, it is important to find species that work well together. This is called ‘mutually beneficial’ if you are going to do some research. Sometimes you are looking for aesthetic beauty but other times you may wish to find plants that literally feed each other. By looking into this type of botany, you will spend less on fertilisers and have plants that are naturally healthier.



These easy steps to garden design should help you make a start. The thing to remember is that everything starts with a plan so take extra time with that. By this time next month you will be amazed at the improvements you’ve made. Have fun and enjoy your newly designed garden.