Small is beautiful! You don’t need rolling acres to create a glorious garden, and if you follow these simple tips to maximise your space, even the tiniest plot can look magical, writes MONTY DON

Forty years ago, my wife and I made the decision to buy a house in London, primarily because of its spacious garden. Despite its modest size compared to what we have now, we grew to love the garden and all the joys it brought us. It is a testament to the fact that the pleasure derived from a garden is not determined by its size. Even a tiny backyard can be as fulfilling and rewarding as vast acres of land.

When it comes to planning a small garden, the key is to tailor it to your specific needs and desires. The more clarity you have about what you want from your garden, the more likely you are to create a space that truly works for you. It’s important to remember that gardens, much like our lifestyles, are adaptable and can evolve over time.

The art of crafting a small garden lies in knowing what to exclude. A single, well-executed idea will have a greater impact than a collection of unfulfilled aspirations. Determine the effect you wish to achieve, whether it’s a riot of herbaceous perennials, the calming allure of grasses, or a functional vegetable patch. Keep it simple and focus on that particular vision.

Select plants that thrive in your local surroundings. Take a look at the vegetation in your neighborhood to get a sense of what thrives in the area. If you notice an abundance of pine trees, rhododendrons, camellias, and blue-flowering hydrangeas, chances are the soil is acidic, making plants like ceanothus, lilac, or clematis less suitable. On the other hand, if you see an abundance of lilacs, lavender, yew, and pink-flowering hydrangeas, the soil will likely favor lime-loving plants. Generally, these two categories are mutually exclusive.

In a small garden, a paved area is often more practical than a lawn, especially if you don’t have young children. It also serves as an ideal space for pots, which are essential components of limited spaces. Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary for everything in a small garden to be small. In fact, a few larger plants or containers can create the illusion of a larger space, while an abundance of small plants can make it feel crowded.

In small gardens, the vertical plane plays a crucial role. No matter how small the space, incorporating height is essential. Consider herbaceous plants and grasses that can be pruned back hard during winter or spring. Make use of every inch of wall or fence, maximizing the potential for privacy and creating hidden corners where you can retreat and unwind.

Planting for all four dimensions—height, breadth, depth, and time—is key. Utilize the possibilities offered by each season. Bulbs, annuals, climbers with attractive foliage, and successional flowering plants all expand the range of visual interest within a garden, maximizing its potential despite the limited space.

In conclusion, the size of your garden should not deter you from creating a beautiful and fulfilling outdoor space. By carefully considering your desires, making wise plant choices, utilizing vertical elements, and planting for different seasons, you can transform even the smallest garden into a haven of beauty and tranquility. So, embrace the possibilities and let your creativity flourish in your small garden.

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