No matter how big or how small, a garden is a very personal space. The best garden design for you, therefore, is one you have conceived and put into practice yourself.
Planning Your Garden
To make the most of your outdoor space, start off by thinking about its physical characteristics. It's useful to have a compass so that you know where north is and can plan your scheme around the sunniest and shadiest areas. Fin out what the local climate is like and what type of soil there is; clay, peat and silty soils tend to need drainage while sandy and chalky soils dry out quickly. Steep slopes are difficult to maintain but you could create a terrace or series of terraces linked by paths or steps.
When you plan your garden, think about the features you have already, as well as the features you'd like to add. Start by listing the features you must include: perhaps a clothesline, a shed, or a gate to stop children and dogs running into the road. Draw up a list in order of priority of the items you'd like to include: hard surfaced areas such as patios, paths and driveways; a garage or carport; or an area of lawn.
A water feature is not only attractive but is also a way to increase the range of wildlife in your garden. A small pool will attract birds, frogs and insects, which will help to devour any pests. Remember that any water, no matter how shallow, is dangerous if you have small children. It might be better to stick to a birdbath instead, until the children have grown up. If you want flowing water, you will have to provide electricity. As with garden lighting, you will need to plan an underground electricity supply before you lay out paths and lawns. The alternative to this is to use solar power. Small solar panels for collecting and storing sunlight will power small fountains during the day or provide power for small lanterns at night; solar panels are available from many garden centres and DIY stores.
Once you've compiled your list, plan how you will carry the work through to completion. Measure the boundaries and draw the area out onto graph paper to scale. Plot the existing features, such as trees or other structures. Lay a piece of tracing paper over this scale drawing and start experimenting with ideas and locations. This gives you an opportunity to work out your ideas and various designs without spoiling the 'master drawing'.
