Just yesterday, I was chatting with Mohammed about how to keep a UK garden vibrant, even when the weather turns bleak. He was telling me all about his struggles to maintain interest during the colder months. “It just becomes… brown!” he lamented. And I totally get it. So, we dove into the idea of designing a garden with year-round enjoyment in mind.
Planning is Paramount:
We started at the very beginning: planning. It’s easy to get caught up in the summer blooms, but Mohammed realised he needed to think holistically. I suggested he consider his garden as a series of ‘rooms’ or zones. For example, a patio area for summer barbecues, a quiet corner for reading, and maybe even a dedicated vegetable patch. Think about how each space will be used, and how it can transition through the seasons.
Mohammed’s main concern was accessibility. His elderly mother loves spending time in the garden, but struggles with uneven surfaces. We discussed creating level pathways using paving stones or gravel, ensuring they’re wide enough for a wheelchair or walking frame. We also explored the idea of raised beds for easier gardening, reducing the need to bend or kneel. Remember, a beautiful garden should be inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
Hardscaping is the Backbone:
Mohammed hadn’t really considered hardscaping beyond the patio. I explained how features like pathways, walls, and water features provide structure and visual interest year-round. A well-placed stone bench, a winding gravel path, or a small pond can add focal points, even when the plants are dormant. We even discussed the possibility of adding a pergola or arbour, which could be adorned with climbing plants during the summer and provide a structural element in winter. This also provides a place for wildlife to shelter and nest in.
The Winter Garden: A Colourful Embrace:
Then we got onto the exciting bit: planting! Mohammed was completely focused on summer flowers, overlooking the beauty of winter foliage and stems. I introduced him to the magic of winter-flowering heathers, whose vibrant colours can brighten even the gloomiest days. We also talked about colourful-stemmed dogwoods like Cornus alba ‘Sibirica’, which provide stunning red stems against a snowy backdrop. We should not forget winter aconites and snowdrops as well. Also consider evergreen shrubs with interesting foliage, such as Mahonia with its architectural leaves and yellow flowers.
Mohammed liked the idea of using architectural evergreens like boxwood or yew to provide structure and visual interest throughout the year. These can be shaped into hedges or topiary, adding a touch of formality to the garden. Also consider the use of various hollies that will come into their own at Christmas with there lovely colours and berries. He was especially keen on the idea of incorporating plants with interesting bark, such as silver birch or snakebark maple.
Winter Maintenance and Protection:
We also discussed winter garden maintenance. He thought the garden could be left to its own devices. I explained the importance of protecting vulnerable plants from frost, either by covering them with horticultural fleece or moving them to a sheltered location. We also talked about mulching to insulate the soil and suppress weeds. Regular pruning helps maintain shape and encourages healthy growth in the spring.
Orangery Enhancement:
Finally, we touched upon the allure of an orangery. This could provide a beautiful indoor-outdoor transition, allowing Mohammed and his family to enjoy the garden even in the depths of winter. It’s a fantastic way to extend the growing season and provide a space to nurture tender plants. He could also grow citrus trees and more exotic plants that wouldn’t survive the UK winters outdoors.
Mohammed was thrilled with all the ideas. Designing a garden for year-round enjoyment involves careful planning, incorporating hardscaping elements, and selecting plants that offer colour, texture, and structure in every season. It’s about creating accessible spaces and providing winter protection for your precious plants. An orangery can further enhance the enjoyment of the garden, providing a warm and inviting space to connect with nature throughout the year. By thinking holistically, Mohammed, and you, too, can transform a garden into a vibrant and engaging space that brings joy throughout the year.
