With the warmer months in full swing, Brits are turning their attention to their gardens, balconies and small patios for a summer update. However, for those with small outdoor areas, transforming the space to be both practical and beautiful can be a challenge. Plant experts Jo Lambell, founder of Beards & Daisies, and lead horticulturalist Connor Towning have revealed their top tips for making your space appear bigger and well-kept.
One major game-changer for those with limited space who want to make a compact outdoor area feel brighter and bigger is to use a mirror. The household item can “visually double the space,” the experts say. Using light and space illusions can make the area quickly appear larger than it is, as the pair recommends using pale colours like soft whites, sage greens, and warm neutrals to help reflect light, too.
Other ways to maximise your space include vertical planting solutions. “Think herbs, trailing plants, or colourful bedding in planters attached to trellises or wooden pallets,” suggests Ms Lambell. “It’s a high-impact look that also smells incredible when you include rosemary, mint or thyme.”
Popular trailing plants like English Ivy, and Petunias add great greenery, perfect for vertical displays.
“Hanging planters are a brilliant way to add layers to a small garden without cluttering the ground,” says Mr Towning. “Use them for trailing plants like English ivy, boston fern, or even strawberries if you want to grow fruit,” he adds.
Mr Towning also said the use of “space-saving furniture is key”. For example, buying build planters that double as storage benches can maximise space efficiency.
He suggests adding side planter boxes at the ends of furniture or underneath to grow small shrubs such as dwarf boxwood or scented herbs like parsley. “Use light textiles and fairy lights to finish the look, perfect for unwinding after a long day,” the expert said.
Mr Towning also suggests the use of mini wildflower corners to support biodiversity. “Sowing a small patch of wildflower seeds in a deep planter can support bees and butterflies,” Mr Towling says. “It’s one of the most rewarding things you can do for wildlife, and it adds a beautiful texture.”