7 steps to success with a small garden

Follow these basic starting points to turn a tiny plot into a horticultural haven that’s buzzing with wildlife – and one that you will want to escape to every day of the year.

1 Become intimately acquainted with the physical constants of your garden like wind, shade, light and aspect.

2 Measure and draw it accurately so you have a true map of the plot to work from.

3 Ask the right questions to get the answers you need – the most crucial one being: ‘What do I really want from my garden?’

4 Create privacy and find the light at the time of day when you will most enjoy it.

5 Keep it simple – too many ideas will make a small space feel crowded

6 Plant big in scope but use small individual plants – they will settle and grow much better than bigger ones.

7 Go up – using all vertical surfaces and cover them with scented climbers.

Make the most of your vertical space by growing plants up wigwams, trellises, walls and sheds

Pack a large pot with one variety of plant for a stylish focal point