Three Ways To Spruce Up Your Garden In 2024

With spring finally here, many of us are itching to get outside and give our gardens a refresh. 

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a new homeowner inheriting a blank patch of green, there are plenty of DIY projects to enhance your outdoor space and transform it into a haven. 

You’ll be handling some hefty materials for any of these projects so it’s worth investing in a sturdy pair of site work boots to protect your toes as well as rugged gloves and eye protection too.

Here, we’ll explore three fantastic options to boost your garden’s appeal.

Building raised beds

Raised beds are a fantastic way to add definition and create a focal point in your garden. They’re perfect for growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers, and can be made in various sizes and materials.

• Materials: Strong timber planks (treated for longevity), screws, weed membrane, good quality soil
• Tools: Saw, drill, screwdriver, tape measure, spirit level

Step-by-step:

1. Plan your beds: Decide on their size and location, ensuring they receive adequate sunlight for your chosen plants.
2. Cut the timber: Measure and cut the planks to the desired length using a saw.
3. Assemble the frame: Screw the planks together to form the box shape. Line the bottom with the weed membrane before filling it with good-quality soil. Don’t forget to drill drainage holes!
4. Planting: Choose your plants and arrange them according to their needs.

Installing a pergola

A pergola adds a touch of elegance and creates a shaded seating area to enjoy your garden throughout the day.

• Materials: Rot-treated timber posts, beams, rafters, fixings (brackets, screws), shade sail (optional)
• Tools: Post hole digger, saw, drill, screwdriver, tape measure, spirit level

Step-by-step:

1. Plan your pergola: Choose the desired size and location. Pick a spot where you typically congregate with friends and family.
2. Dig the post holes: Mark and dig the holes for the pergola posts, ensuring they are deep enough for stability.
3. Secure the posts: Place the posts in the holes, level them carefully, and secure them with concrete or gravel.
4. Attach beams and rafters: Fix the beams across the top of the posts and then attach the rafters to create a roof structure. You can add a shade sail for extra sun protection.

Constructing a pathway

A well-defined pathway not only improves access but also adds visual interest to your garden.

• Materials: Paving slabs, gravel, edging (optional)
• Tools: Shovel, wheelbarrow, compactor, spirit level, tape measure

Step-by-step:

1. Plan your path: Mark out the desired route for your path, considering width and curves. Consider winding it past communal areas and spots of interest such as flower beds.
2. Excavate the area: Dig down to the desired depth, ensuring the base is level.
3. Lay a sub-base: Add a layer of compacted hardcore to provide a solid foundation.
4. Lay your chosen material: Carefully lay your chosen paving slabs or gravel, ensuring everything is level and secure. Consider adding edging to create a clean-cut finish.

By claire.