Many people forget about the exterior of their home and instead focus on decorating the interior. However, adding a garden to the property enhances both the look and appeal of the house as a whole.
While a home with a garden can be quite expensive, the market is getting a little better for buyers. However, you really have to know what you are doing in order to maintain this type of outdoor space. If you are interested in improving your gardening skills, the following tips will help you begin.
Know Your Limits
Before you do anything else, figure out where your garden begins and where it ends. Having a defined garden space makes it easier for you to tend to the plants. In addition, you can quickly spot an errant weed or an overgrown plant if you know where the garden’s boundaries are located at. This makes the task of gardening much easier.
Creating boundaries isn’t all that difficult. Simply take a small shovel and dig out a shallow ditch. This helps with drainage and allows you to create a space for your plants that is separate from the rest of your lawn. In addition, look into edging rolls. They will help to make the boundary a little stronger.
Another simple way to create a boundary is by putting down paving stones. Make a path that winds throughout your property and also defines where the garden space is. If you put in a little extra work, and get the stones down into the soil a bit, the paths will look more professional.
Think About Furniture
Once you’ve defined your garden space, think about adding a bit of furniture to it. After all, once you put in hours of work to make the garden the best it can be, you want to enjoy it.
First, evaluate how much space you have. If the garden is large, you may be able to add permanent fixtures to the area. However, tables and chairs are often expensive. If you don’t have the space, or you simply don’t want to spend a lot, think about getting some chairs and tables that you can fold up and put away. Seek out something light, so that you don’t have any trouble carrying the furniture about. You can also use the folding chairs and tables for parties and other events as well.
If you decide to keep the folding furniture outside, like under your deck, make sure to cover it with something so that it is not harmed by the rain, snow or sun. A plastic tarp should do the trick.
Figure Out Your Fruits and Veggies
When you think of a garden, beautiful flowers may be the first thing that comes to mind. However, don’t discount the addition of fruits and vegetables. Not only can you eat what you grow, but these plants can add interest and depth to any garden.
When selecting plants, make sure you look for something that will grow without much effort on your part. This is particularly true if you haven’t taken care of a garden before. Also, don’t choose anything that is very expensive. You don’t want to invest too much in the garden, particularly in the beginning before you know what you really want.
Strawberries are a good choice. They grow well, and the fruit produced by the plant tastes delicious. Make sure you look for a good deal, though, because strawberries can be a bit costly.
Gardens are a beautiful addition to any home, but they do need loving care. A little time and effort will all be worth it in the end. It is a beautiful, peaceful oasis that adds value to any home.
Citations:
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Featured images:
- Image by Smart Photo Stock
Amy Rice writes about homes and gardens, when not writing she enjoys horse riding and dining out with friends.