GARDEN TIPS

• Plant pennyroyal

between flagstones to deter ants and soften the look of hard surfaces in a lawn-less area. Mondo grass also works well.

• Use mirrors to create the illusion of space and boost natural light. Salvaged doors and windows make great mirror frames.

• Change level to create more depth. A second tier is ideal, but you can get the same effect with a retaining wall or even just a few raised beds.

• Keep garden furniture

to a minimum and go for small pieces such as a bistro setting instead of a six-seater table.

1 Go vertical in small outdoor areas to free up floor space, using wall gardens, hanging baskets and decorations such as lamps and mirrors. Lay a path that leads to a focal point and you’ll create depth, while mixed planting heights add dimension. And don’t forget colour!

2 Vertical gardens are visually stunning, but they do need a bit of care. Try succulents and use coir potting mix blocks with extra water crystals so they don’t dry out as fast.

3 No garden beds? No worries! Vibrant bloomers such as pink fuchsia and red pelargoniums perform well in pots, so you can add colour wherever you need it. And they look fabulous against a dark painted fence.

What to plant

Bougainvillea Bromeliad Begonia Frangipani Chinese star jasmine Rosemary Pennyroyal Mini mondo grass

Fig tree Geranium Coleus Fuchsia