Once you have spent time on your garden, your plants and flowers are flourishing and it now looks the way you imagined. However, a garden can be considered a ‘work in progress’ and there’s always more you could do. One of the ways you can embellish your outdoor area is to add a garden feature. If money is tight, a financial magazine can give you handy tips on budgeting to find the money to fund the project. Although everything about money can be stressful, many of these additions can be quite inexpensive. If you have some experience with DIY, they can also be done alone without paying for a professional.
Before deciding which garden feature to add, you should always think about the size of your garden. You want a feature that won’t overpower the area. You also have to measure its location to make sure that there’s sufficient room. You should take into account how much the sunlight the area receives. For example, a water feature in a place which is mostly in the shade will look dank and gloomy. Before you start any digging, you should always check the location of any underground pipes and/or cables to avoid an expensive mistake.
Now that you’ve made the decision to add a feature, what are the possibilities?
Water features
Depending on the size of your outdoor area, you might choose water features like a fish pond, water garden, fountain or a bird bath. Not only are these features extremely soothing and relaxing, but they have a re-circulatory system so you don’t have to worry about the size of your water bill. A bird bath can be a source of amusement for the whole family and make you familiar with native species, but shouldn’t be located too near the house.
Screens
Screens serve a number of purposes. They can be used as garden dividers. For example, if you have a vegetable garden which you wish to keep separate, or as a way to conceal an area that you haven’t finished working on yet. They also work well as a way to retain privacy especially in urban areas where neighbours can be quite near. Finally, screens like those made of latticework can be used to train climbing plants and add to the beauty of your outdoor area.
Outdoor lighting
The easiest and cheapest way to transform your patio or outdoor area is by installing lighting. There are a wide variety to choose from. If you have a deck and/or a pathway, ground lights are particularly effective, or you might choose to drape trees with fairy lighting. When installing electrical fittings, you should always follow the appropriate safety regulations. Other inexpensive ways to add a magical atmosphere to your garden at night is by purchasing solar lamps, vintage oil lamps or even by lighting candles. If you buy a Citronella candle, this has the added advantage of keeping away insects on summer nights too.