…and potter in the garden, too

Vertical garden

Did wannabe green fingers start twitching while you were starved of outside space during the early weeks of lockdown? For those who don’t live with the luxury of a garden, the popularity of growing a vertical garden is on the rise (pun intended.)

That’s making the best use of what little outdoor space you have – whether that be a balcony or tiny patio – by hanging pots vertically, along a wall or free-standing structure, say a trellis or ladder. Pick a sunny spot so your plants, vegetables or herbs can soak up the sunlight, but don’t pile them so high they become difficult to water. Don’t be limited to flowerpots, either – check out Pinterest for creative ways vertical gardeners have used old gutters, wellies and empty water bottles as containers.

Beautiful hedges

With so many reasons to be outside, a perfectly trimmed privacy hedge is an absolute essential. Your neighbours will thank you for shutting out the noise, plus a background of hawthorn or red cedar is a lot easier on the eye than a regular fence. With hedge-trimming season in full swing (and Sunday lie-ins not as precious since we’ve had more time on our hands), a quiet, cordless hedge trimmer will allow pruning over pillow time. For safety’s sake, invest in a tripod ladder rather than a conventional step one. They’re stronger, more sturdy, come with adjustable legs and are specially designed for working at height.

Living roof

If you’ve enjoyed spending time in your garden but are up to date with pruning, planting and mowing, how does the idea of creating a completely new garden sound? There’s a crop of homeowners who have taken to transforming the tops of sheds, gazebos and even their house into a living roof. Sedums, sempervivums, saxifrage – these are all plants that will thrive from elevated planting. Your local wildlife will love you.