Time to let your garden bloom

With the recent spell of warm weather, interspersed with some much-needed rain, there’s no better time to get out into the garden to start creating a perfect summer retreat at home.

Whether you are a dabhand with a trowel or totally new to creating and maintaining a beautiful garden, there are always ways to adapt or improve your green space for the season. But with a little expense and a lot of effort you can guarantee your garden will be looking gorgeous just in time for the school holidays rolling in.

The best way to get started is to think about what you want to do with your garden. Write a list and get lots of pictures of “dream gardens” to inspire you.

One top tip is to think of the big jobs first. Perhaps you fancy putting up a new fence, creating a cool courtyard or even adding some designer decking? These jobs might take a bit more work, but doing just one or two of these things can completely transform your garden.

Of course, DIY is always an option, but why not call in the professionals for a quote?

After all, spending a little amount of money could be key when it comes to adding a lot of value to your home. Tradesmen are the best way to ensure that manicured finish facelift – without getting your hands dirty. And it might even cost less than you think.

Or you might be trying to create more room in your house, so why not look at getting a new shed to keep the bike and outdoor equipment in? Not only will it keep them safe, but it will get them out from under your feet.

Others choose to build a summer house in their garden – that perfect place of relaxation and tranquillity you can escape to for a bit of peace and quiet.

And how good is your garage? Perhaps you might want to spruce up the space with a new door, a freshly paved path or even convert it into a home office, games room or guest suite? Once you have given the garden its makeover, attention can turn to ensuring it stays fabulous.

Hiring a landscape gardener is the best way to get your shrubs in shape, but if you don’t have that much to spend, doing it yourself is the next best alternative.

Get a good lawnmower and strimmer, as well as essentials like shears and a shovel – and let your green fingers go wild. Doing it yourself helps you understand what is best for the plants and the space.

Once you have got all that sorted, it’s time to think about how you can enjoy your garden. For foodies, there is no better investment than a good barbecue to allow for some al fresco dining. And to finish the look off, chose some beautiful furniture. From wood to wrought iron to highquality plastic, there are plenty of options for furniture that is built to last, be comfortable and look good.

All in all, there are great gardening options to suit every lifestyle and budget. All you need is mow-tivation.