7 Cheap Ways to Transform Your Garden into a Vibrant Oasis This Summer

Gardening can be a rewarding and enriching experience. Caring for a garden, whether it’s a small balcony or a sprawling backyard, can bring a sense of joy, peace and pride. The presence of vibrant greenery and colorful flowers can instantly enhance the beauty of your outdoor space.

Depending on the size and limitations of your area, you can choose from a variety of easy-to-grow options, such as vegetables, fruits, and herbs that can be harvested at their peak season. You can also opt for low-maintenance tropical plants, evergreen shrubs, or perennial flowers that require less maintenance.

There are plenty of charming small garden ideas to explore, from building raised garden beds to creating unique vertical gardens. You can also decorate with potted plants, which can be a great solution for limited space.

Whether you want to landscape the front garden, create a vegetable garden in the backyard or stylishly decorate your patio with flower pots, there are plenty of ideas that are affordable and suitable for beginners.

Explore the possibilities and unleash your creativity as you transform your small outdoor space into a lush, vibrant and personal oasis.

As the warm weather approaches, many of us are looking to spruce up our outdoor spaces. With a little creativity and some budget-friendly solutions, you can transform your garden into a lush, vibrant and personal oasis.

We spoke to garden experts Ali Wooldridge and Matt Draycott about the best DIY tips to spruce up your garden this summer without breaking the bank.

Creating Zones

If you like structure, create designated zones in your garden, advises Ali Wooldridge, co-founder of luxury outdoor furniture company Gardenesque. “Divide your space into different functional areas according to your preferences, and plan the layout of each zone based on how the space will be used.”

For example, you can set up a cozy seating area at the entrance of your home, so that you can easily take food and drinks outside. If you want to grow your own vegetables, designate a sunny spot for a vegetable garden.

Create an ‘IT’ point

Once you have your zones sorted, create a focal point that will draw attention. “Ideas include a secluded seating area with a bench and flowers at the bottom of your garden, or a painted wall or fence with plants strategically hung to create a pleasing view,” says Ali.

If you’re planning on installing a statement piece like a hot tub or sauna, Matt Draycott, Senior Designer at Hekla Saunas, suggests surrounding it with shrubs, vines and other bushes. “Not only will it look inviting, but the plants will also provide extra privacy.”

Make your own walkway or seating area

Creating your own paths and seating areas is a budget-friendly way to add texture. “Materials like gravel and bark are easy to lay over landscape fabric and a less expensive alternative to paving,” Matt explains.

Mark out the area, dig up the grass, lay down weed control fabric and fill it with the materials you have chosen. “Check that the ground underneath is reasonably level,” he advises.

Rearrange flower beds

Changing the shape and size of your flower beds can instantly refresh your garden. Ali recommends using tools like shears, half-moon edgers, and spades to create straight or curved edges. “Straight edges give a smooth look, while curves are great for breaking up long, rectangular gardens.”

Clean up edges with borders

Borders instantly make your garden look more manicured. “You can use them to separate areas like grass from paths or to keep flowers and plants from spreading,” says Ali. Choose affordable options like stones, bricks, chicken wire or mesh panels.

Light it up with solar energy

Lighting adds ambiance and definition to your outdoor space. Matt suggests stringing lights around trees and shrubs or using solar lights along paths and to highlight focal points. “Be sure to use soft lighting to keep wildlife like bats and insects at bay.”

Apply a lick of paint

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders. “Colours that are perfect for this summer are pastel pinks, lilacs and blues,” says Ali. “If your garden is already full of bright flowers and accessories, you can choose to paint other items black to create instant impact.”

With these budget-friendly tips, you can transform your garden into a beautiful oasis this summer. Remember, a little creativity and elbow grease can go a long way in creating an outdoor space you’ll love.