Secrets of a Head Gardener
Adopt principles from the natural world
by observing woodlands. Here, decomposing leaves and twigs replace the need for artificial fertilisers, and because the ground is covered in vegetation, weed seeds aren’t continually brought to the surface by tilling. Applying mulches to areas of bare soil reduces the need for weeding, watering and fertilising at a stroke, working with nature and making gardening so much easier!
Why not treat your garden like a canvas
and go to town creating colourful and exuberant expressions of your innermost feelings? elings? Instead of trying to plan an a border so that it looks good ood all year round, you could throw hrow everything into one particulararticular time of year. Get it right ght and the flowers and foliage effectsfects will reach a deeply satisfying tisfying climax.
For the backbone of a design,
don’t just buy one or two of each type ype of perennial, grass or shrub – a smaller selection of highimpact mpact plants repeated across the w whole scheme will achieve a stronger effect.
Liberating your lawn
doesn’t have to mean a drop in standards. Meadow-style lawns can look just as good as finelystriped turf. At home, I scythe my lawn once a month between April and October, which produces a useful by-product of hay for my children’s pets. Instead of spending hours mowing and edging, I’m relaxing in the sunshine with a drink and a book, enjoying the extra bird and insect life that a wilder garden attracts.
Don’t forget to enjoy your garden
and create spaces within it that enhance your own wellbeing. An oasis of greenery will help alleviate stress and recharge your batteries. The colour green has a soothing effect on our eyes and relaxes the body. Think about your own lifestyle and use your garden in a positive way to help create an outdoor habitat in which you and your family can thrive and have fun!