AND FINALLY... THE GARDEN
Once it is finished, and you have moved into your new home, one of the biggest joys is creating the perfect setting for the gem you have just built with a glorious garden
The pandemic has taught us all to value our gardens and even creating extra space with garden rooms – either for working from home or for a spot of peace and quiet. You might not be adding top soil, turf and plants until the very end, when season and budget allow, but the finished look is something you need to have in mind from the start. Bi-fold glass doors will open up living areas and turn parts of your garden into garden rooms. This trend can be seen in the way that garden seating is looking more and more like weatherproof versions of conservatory furniture. Heating systems are also getting more and more sophisticated; extending the time we spend outdoors. The ‘hard’ landscaping, of outside power supply and taps need to be decided on while work takes place on the property. So too do features like paths and patios. Concrete bases for sheds and summer houses created when the concrete is being poured for the main build also make sense. Creating a garden is like building more rooms – and value – for your home.
Gardens to inspire
Scotland’s Gardens Scheme celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2021 with keen gardeners throwing open their gates and inviting everyone in. The gardens have been opening gradually since the start of April in line with Scottish Government guidelines. This year 70 new gardens are opening for first time; along with 38 village and group openings and five plant sales. Who knows, give your garden a few years to mature and you could be joining in. It is a great way to find inspiration for your new garden and visiting one close to you will give you an idea about which plants thrive in your area – plus a great deal of local gardening advice. If there is one thing gardeners like to do it’s share! And a good way to start stocking your garden is to visit one of the scheme’s plant sales, they are being held at Kilmacolm, Huntly, Kirriemuir, Helensburgh and Cupar. Look out for the distinctive yellow signs at the roadside on the day and visit www. scotlandsgardens.org for listings.