THINGS TO DO THIS

After wrestling with my lawn, which is part moss, part dandelion, I can understand why seniors or people with young kids who need a low-maintenance garden resort to artificial grass.

The flooring folk at tapi.co.uk have six tips for hassle-free gardening: 1 LOSE YOUR LAWN: If real grass is too high-maintenance for you, opt for artificial to get the look without the hassle. The fake stuff still needs a little TLC and a weekly brushing, and deep cleaning should be done every four weeks. 2 OPT FOR EVERGREENS: These plants keep their leaves all year round and spring is one of the best times to buy them. Examples include bamboos, griselinia, choisya (Mexican orange blossom) and bay (laurus nobilis). Herbs such as lavender and rosemary will also make your garden look terrific, without the need for constant watering as well.

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PLANT SMARTER: Go for smaller plants and pots rather than large ones, which need titivating and extra watering. Patio pots, hanging baskets and window boxes are a great way to add colour – and if you scatter them, they’ll add interest to the space.

SEED LOW-CARE HOMEGROWN PRODUCE: Easy veggies such as courgettes, squashes and radishes grow by themselves, all you need to do is water them every so often. Peas, beans and Swiss chard also require minimal maintenance.

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DON’T DIG, TRY MULCHING: Ditch the spade and use mulches of organic materials including wood chips, grass clippings or organic compost. They gradually release their nutrients and contribute to a better soil structure, while weeds find it harder to push through from the ground beneath. 6

THINK ABOUT YOUR HEDGES: Slow-growing hedges might take longer to establish, but they will eventually reduce the time you spend up a ladder trimming. Yew, box, euonymus and cherry laurel are all smart choices in the long run.