Creating a beautiful garden doesn’t have to be a time-consuming chore. By following a few simple principles and investing in the right materials, you can create a low-maintenance garden that looks amazing and allows you to relax and enjoy your outdoor space.
One of the most important aspects of a low-maintenance garden is the landscaping. Decide whether you want to spend your weekends mowing a perfect lawn or prefer a larger patio area with less grass to maintain. Understanding your soil type and which areas of your garden receive sun or shade will help you choose plants that are well-suited to your location, saving you time and money on replacements.
Andy Mclaughlin, landscaping and paving expert at RF Paving, recommends increasing the amount of paving in your garden as a low-maintenance alternative to a lawn. Porcelain paving, such as Aged Kandla Grey Porcelain, is a great option as it does not require resealing every year and is easy to clean. However, if you’re concerned about missing out on greenery, add potted plants or raised beds to bring in a touch of nature.
Aggregates are another permeable option for low-maintenance gardens, allowing excess water to drain away easily. To prevent weeds, use a weed control membrane when laying aggregates. Artificial grass is a durable and realistic alternative to natural lawns, requiring minimal upkeep. If you’re not ready to ditch your lawn, invest in a robot lawnmower to save time on mowing.
When choosing plants, opt for self-sufficient succulents and perennials that require less care and attention. Succulents are drought-tolerant and store water in their thick leaves, while perennials return every year and have deep root systems that make them more resistant to drought. Slow-growing shrubs and drought-tolerant plants are also great choices for low-maintenance gardens.
Before buying plants, determine your soil type and the amount of sunlight each area of your garden receives. This will help you choose the right plants for the right place. Raised beds made from railway sleepers are a great way to add a modern or rustic touch to your garden while making maintenance easier. Using weed-free soil in raised beds will further reduce upkeep.
By following these tips, you can create a low-maintenance garden that looks amazing and allows you to relax and enjoy your outdoor space without spending all your spare time on weeding, pruning, and mowing.
