What to do with a small garden
Small garden ideas to make the most of your outdoor space
If you've got a spatially challenged outdoor space you might think you're limited for what you can achieve. However, there are a tonne of wonderful and creative small garden ideas to transform even the tiniest plot.
Petite spaces may require a little more thought than larger garden ideas, but they come with plenty of welcome advantages. For a start, it forces you to be a little more inventive, which can often result in serious style and beauty. The other big plus is that due to their size, more often than not they're delightfully low-maintenance.
So it's time to get creative and start exploring what you could create with whatever space you have available.
'Decide on the main role for the space,' says Alix Hollingsworth, award-winning garden designer and co-founder of Dig Club . 'Committing to a single use in your garden if it's small is important; choosing what you'd like the garden to be primarily used for (such as a dining area, drinks terrace or only a space for planting) means it won't feel overly busy and cramped. '
Small garden ideas
Whether you're looking to create an impressive balcony garden, squeeze outdoor furniture into a courtyard or fill a plot with greenery, you'll find lots of small garden ideas to inspire you.
1. Think vertically
(Image credit: Future PLC)
Save precious outdoor square footage - be it lawn or patio - by taking what you can off the ground. If you have a wall or strong fence available, this is the ideal spot to affix a slim shelving unit. Alternatively, DIY it by exploring garden ideas with pallets.
You can use these levels to display potted plants, keep smaller garden accessories, and to double up as somewhere to set your drink or hold your hat.
2. Repurpose an old step ladder for plants
(Image credit: Future)
This is another way to take pots and planters off the ground. By placing them on the steps of a step ladder you're freeing up the space below for more greenery. The well worn appearance of an old or no longer used wooden step ladder also adds rustic charm to your garden.
3. Go big with variety
(Image credit: Future / Colin Poole)
'Don't be tempted to plant only small plants as these will only emphasise the space of a small garden,' says Alix Hollingsworth of Dig Club. 'Instead plant a range of sizes to create shape and variety.
'When planting shrubs, opt for larger specimens but don't go for very dense varieties as these will look like they take up more space than they do. If you want a tree, choose multi-stem ones which appear lighter, as you can see through the stems to the rest of the garden.'
4. Make the most of a patio
(Image credit: Future PLC)
Patios and decks are just begging to be brightened up. Revive a dreary outdoor space by whitewashing brickwork and refreshing weathered wood. Create a cheery festival vibe by adding a stack of cushions and rigs in folksy florals and sunny brights.
Not only will these patio ideas bring joy, but the pops of colour against a white backdrop will give the space an illusion of being bigger than it is in reality.
Choose slightly small benches and rugs than normal to heighten this effect.
5. Create a layered look
(Image credit: Future PLC)
Layers don't just add the illusion of depth when in your hair - they can go a long way in gardens, too. Combine both raised beds and ground levels beds to add height and create a layered look to your planting, implying the presence of much more foliage than there actually is.
Additionally, slightly raising a path or walkway will make the ground level planting seem taller, too. It's really beneficial to work out how to plan a small garden in advance of starting.
6. Shade a dining spot with an awning
(Image credit: Hillarys)
There's no denying that pergolas draped in Wisteria look lovely but in a small garden it may simply not be practical.
'It's not a great idea to put pergolas right up against the house as this can cause a lot of unwanted shade in the winter,' says garden designer designer, Charlotte Rowe .
If you're going to want shade during alfresco summer lunches without limiting light in your home over the winter months, an adjustable awning is a great space-saving option for petite patios.
7. Attract wildlife with flowers and food
(Image credit: Future / Colin Poole)
Just because a garden is small doesn't mean it can't provide a home for nature. Hang nut and seed feeders for birds on tree branches and leave a tray filled with water for them to drink and bathe in.
Leave gaps in fences to create a hedgehog highway and fill your garden with colourful flowers to attract butterflies and other pollinators. It will not only make your garden a calming space, it will delight little ones when they spot visiting wildlife too.
8. Plant according to sun and shade
(Image credit: Future / Colin Poole)
Plants need sunshine but there are plenty that don't like direct sun all day and prefer shady spots. So plant according to your garden's situation, as well as its soil.
'Shady gardens can still look fabulous,' says Alix Hollingsworth at Dig Club. 'If your small garden doesn’t get much sun, don’t worry, you can still fill it with wonderful plants that can bring character and personality to the space.
'“Jungle” or “Forest” style plants such as Ferns, Dwarf Bamboo and impactful shrubs like Fatsia japonica with their large leaves can help fill the space and create a lush, green haven. Colour can still be delivered through Geraniums such as ‘Rozanne’, Alliums and Irises which provide pops of confident colour amongst the greenery.'
9. Turn it into a tropical oasis
(Image credit: Future / Alasdair McIntosh)
Outdoor living is wonderful but noone wants a garden filled with furniture and devoid of life. Fake plastic grass is depressing and too much concrete looks soulless. So create plenty of pockets of foliage around paths or patios with hedges, shrubs and trees.
If your small garden doesn't get much frost, grow species that thrive in warm weather such as grasses, palms and tree ferns (which like partial sun and shade).
Tropical plants like these will give your garden a holiday feeling all summer long.
These living elements will make your garden more enjoyable for you and your family too.
'Trees bring several other benefits to your garden, such as the calming sound of leaves rustling in the wind and lowering the volume of artificial noise in your garden,' says Cass Heaphy at Paving Direct .
10. Include an arbour
(Image credit: Future / Lizzie Orme)
Enjoy your garden from a new angle with an arbour. These sheltered areas take up less space than a pergola would yet provide an extra shaded seating area.
Placing an arbour at the end of your garden in a sunny spot away from the dining area enables you to make the most of the space at different times of the day.
It could be a quiet retreat to enjoy a morning coffee before the day revs up, or somewhere to relax with a sun downer and take a breath after work.
11. Add interest with plenty of pots and planters
(Image credit: Future)
Having plants in pots and planters means you can move them around - and into a conservatory, greenhouse or indoors to protect them when a frost is due.
'Interesting planters and pots of various heights mean they are not only a space saver but can be used to create a sense of enclosure when placed around a seating area, or as focal points around the garden,' says garden designer, Alix Hollingsworth at Dig Club.
'The style of planter is important too - ensure it's in keeping with the overall style of the garden and even the interior of the house to create a sense of continuity. Don’t feel you have to stick to just one plant per pot.
'For larger ones, consider a small tree like Olive or Bay, and underplant with trailing plants such as Vinca minor or Helianthemum ‘The Bride’ which tumble over the edges of pots and soften the edges.'
12. Use walls and fences for climbers
(Image credit: Future / David Giles)
In a small space don't forget to use walls and fences for greenery. Climbing plants provide shade and create a lovely sense of enclosure. They're good at absorbing noise and pollution too.
'Plant vertically in a small space,' Alix Hollingsworth, Dig Club.
'This could be with a living wall (although these can require a bit of maintenance), or with planters that are slightly oversized.
'This also means you can play with the planting combinations within them and create interest and height with textures, colours and form. Using climbers such as the evergreen Star jasmine that can add interest and greenery, and don't take up too much space.'
13. Take the indoors out
(Image credit: Future PLC /David Giles)
Make a small garden feel bigger by making it feel like a continuation of your indoor space with outdoor living room ideas. Making the most of the space makes it more valuable, no matter how small. Dress your small garden space with a furniture set and add decorative outdoor fairy light ideas to ensure it's a space you want to spend more time.
'Do not let attention to detail go amiss, the same principles apply externally as they do an interior project,' says Emmie Brookman, Creative Director of Silver Mushroom .
'Your outdoor space should be an extension of your home, so make it comfortable and accessorise the same way you would indoors. Introduce cushions, throws, candles and bowls, after all you can always take them back inside if the weather turns.'
Similarly, a plethora of potted plants adds foliage, but as pots are moveable you get a sense of freedom to change things around from time to time.
14. Create a mini herb garden
(Image credit: Sadolin)
Herb gardens don't have to only exist on your windowsills or in a large dedicated vegetable patch. Upcycle a side or coffee table to create a homemade and bijou planting area, perfect for herbs.
As well as saving you space beneath for extra planting or storage, by having the plants higher, you'll save your back a lot of strain that you might get from bending over veg beds.
'As well as herbs, salad leaves and lettuce are also incredibly easy vegetables to grow,' says Cass Heaphy, gardening expert at Paving Direct.
'Some plants come through within four weeks. Find seeds in your local shop and sow in regular intervals for a full salad bowl throughout summer.'
15. Grow your own veg in containers
(Image credit: Future)
You may think this isn't possible to grow your own veg in a small garden, particularly if you want to use it to socialise. But not all crops require a large dedicated patch.
'Tomatoes are some of the easiest vegetables to grow in containers,' says Cass Heaphy at Paving Direct. 'As long as you have a location that receives at least five to six hours of sunlight per day, you can grow tomatoes in a small corner or even a balcony container garden with ease. There’s a large variety of tomato species out there but if you are limited for space choose smaller types such as Cherry tomatoes.'
'Runner beans, sugar snap peas, broad beans, French beans can also be grown in a small spot, as long as they’re basking in the sun all day. All you need is a pot that is at least one foot deep, and if you have a climbing variety, a trellis-like structure for the vines to grow on.
Make sure to sow seeds regularly so you get a succession of crops over the summer.'
16. Hang your plants
(Image credit: Future PLC)
Hooks go a long way in space saving in interiors, and they work just as well for small garden ideas. On a fence or exterior of your home, attach a few hooks and use this to hang smaller plants until they're big enough to plant out or move into larger containers on the ground.
Plus, if you're ever off to a party and realise you're missing a hostess gift, grab one of these and voila, problem solved!
17. Choose slimline options
(Image credit: Future PLC /Dunelm)
Slot in a slimline plant stand in smaller outdoor spaces. Cover bare areas of fence or brickwork with plants and trailing greenery and then look vertically for extra planting. Add a ladder stand to add height to displays - it's one of the easiest budget garden ideas and easy to move if you fancy a change.
18. Add a gallery wall
(Image credit: Future PLC /Tim Young)
In the same way you would hang pictures indoors, create a display of frames and wall hung planters on an outside wall, fence or shed.
Utilise junk shop finds by hanging old wooden frames and up-cycle old loaf tins as planters. Just drill holes in the base for drainage and in the side for hooking onto the wall.
Hang above a pretty garden bench, as you would a sofa indoors and finish off with some cushions and a throw.
19. Create a mini outdoor kitchen
(Image credit: Future PLC /Tim Young)
Extend your kitchen capacity into the garden. Potting tables can provide a slim, compact surface along one side of a patio for outside food prep, choosing units with galvanised or zinc topped surfaces will make wipe-down easier and protects wooden surfaces from weather damage, too.
Hang a bamboo pole above your units from cup hooks screwed into the wall or fence and use S-hooks to hang kitchen utensils along its length.
20. Double your space
(Image credit: Future PLC /Tim Young)
When working out how to make a small garden look bigger, one foolproof idea is to use garden mirrors.
Create your own using an old gate or some painted trellis mounted onto a piece of mirrored board.
This is not only an inexpensive alternative to an outdoor mirror it also prevents any danger through mirror breakage. Set a table close by so that you can enjoy a view of the garden wherever you are seated.
Top tip: using a grid style mirror means that birds are less likely to fly into it.
21. Create a kids corner
(Image credit: Future PLC /Tim Young)
Sacrifice a raised bed to create a section of deck with a giant blackboard and covered sandpit for some sunny-day play. Try using old railway sleepers to create a barrier for sand and soil.
Finish by fixing a peg rail to the underside of the sandpit lid for hanging toys and tools.
22. Set up a private bar
(Image credit: Future PLC /Tim Young)
Look to outdoor bar ideas to create your own little entertaining zone with a clever pull-down bar made from a couple of pallets and a length of chain.
Cut the top section from the pallet to use as the flip down section and attach using two strong hinges and lengths of chain.
Adding an outdoor herb planter to the top section will keep them within easy reach for drinks and barbecues.
23. Hang furniture to free up floorspace
(Image credit: Future PLC /Tim Young/Charlie Young)
When working with small indoor spaces, designers will explain the importance of elevating furniture off the floor to create the illusion of more floor space. Wall-mounted bathroom units are a prime example of where this applies.
Use the same design idea in a small garden by choosing a hanging chair. A nook of a garden is all you need for a reading corner, the perfect place to get away from it all. This hanging bamboo chair keeps the floor and sightline clear giving a feeling of space in even the smallest of spaces.
Highlight the area with clusters of pots that contain foliage at varying heights and scales and mix up shop bought planters with vintage buckets or troughs.
Mix materials like zinc, rattan and terracotta, to give your garden an effortless layered up look.
24. Make a small space work harder
(Image credit: Future PLC /Colin Poole)
Divide your garden into zones to gain the illusion of extra space. With individual purposes, the space will feel larger because of the multifunctional uses and outdoor 'rooms'.
Depending on available space, and what you like to do, there's a multitude of zones you could create. Think an entertaining space, reading nook, outdoor kitchen ideas, play area, vegetable plot... the garden's your oyster!
25. Enliven the space with colour
(Image credit: Future PLC/Dobbies)
As with interior decorating, think of how using colour can help invigorate an outdoor space. Use small garden ideas to add depth to the space with using garden paint ideas to paint the walls in a vibrant shade.
A flash of bold colour allows the plants to really pop against the colourful backdrop – creating an illusion of a sense of space.
Not to mention the mood-boosting power a splash of colour can have on the senses.
26. Create a sense of height through planting
(Image credit: Future PLC /Tim Young)
A clever and simple idea for planting a small garden is to play with the heights to add a feeling of space and depth. Use clusters of different pots that contain foliage at varying heights and scales to make the most of the space.
An ideal solution for small patios, courtyards and balcony gardens.
27. Add new levels
(Image credit: Future PLC /David Giles)
Add interest with small garden ideas by adding perspective with different levels. A classic way to do this is to have a raised or sunken terrace, and the lawn at another height.
The ledges and steps will help open up how you can use the space, adding in extra spots for plant pots to be arranged or areas to add furniture to accommodate guests.
You can also cheat this look with the clever use of raised beds.
28. Give fences double duty
(Image credit: Future PLC /Joanna Henderson)
Take inspiration from the elements of a living wall, by using vertical wall space for thoughtful planting. This allows even the smallest of garden spaces to flourish, making the most of the space, and is particularly useful if you are looking for decorative grassless garden ideas.
The simple yet savvy addition of horizontal fence panels can turn the side of the shed into a decorative living wall. This could also work on a stretch of bare fence or wall when planning your front garden ideas, or on the side of a balcony. Any of these small outdoor spaces can be transformed into a vertical garden, accommodating smaller plant pots and baskets.
29. Zone with different flooring
(Image credit: Future PLC /David Giles)
Look down for some new small garden ideas. Choosing different mediums for the flooring across zones suggests changes in space without having to physically divide the space with borders or planting.
30. Camouflage your walls
(Image credit: Future PLC /Lizzie Orme)
In a small garden it's beneficial to camouflage the walls as much as possible. Painting any exposed walls in a green exterior paint helps to blend in and further the sense of the surrounding greenery.
Add a decorative garden mirror on top to bounce around images of surrounding foliage to add to the illusion.
31. Get creative with shelves and hooks
(Image credit: Future PLC /Jamie Mason)
Shelves and hooks aren't just for indoors. Create extra precious surface area for pots and pretty accessories by putting up some shelves. Ideally they should be mounted into brick, as your garden fence might not be able to take the weight.
Reclaimed scaffolding boards are an inexpensive solution, supported by wrought iron brackets that you can pick up for a few pounds from your nearest DIY store. The wall-mounted shelves will clear up your floor space from lanterns and plant pots.
A recycled peg rail can also become the perfect place to hang outdoor lighting.
32. Go halves
(Image credit: Dunelm)
Don't let limited space stop you from enjoying alfresco dining. Invest in a compact dining solution like half-sized tables or bistro sets. The small dining set can then sit neatly against a wall, serving the purpose without encroaching on the limited space.
33. Zone your layout with an outdoor rug
(Image credit: The Rug Seller)
Put down a decorative outdoor rug to direct the eye. It's one of the easiest small garden ideas to achieve, and works by drawing the gaze to one defined area. The space around it won't be as obvious upon first look, giving the illusion of more space.
34. Use paint to trick the eye
(Image credit: Cuprinol)
Draw the eye up with a cleverly painted backdrop, creating the illusion of extra height and space. A simple two-tone block colour treatment can jazz up any expanse of garden fencing.
Using a dark colour helps to make more of a statement with the effect, it also compliments green foliage beautifully.
(Image credit: Argos)
Grab extra seats for when needed. Invest in a few oversized floor cushions for when you have guests over. Floor cushions are less imposing than alternative garden seating solutions. Plus they are easy to pile one on top of the other when not in use, ideal for easy storage.
Pattered or brightly coloured cushions will also help to inject personality into the space.
36. Make the most of space with a multifunctional shed
(Image credit: Future PLC /Joanna Henderson)
Make a shed work harder in your small space by making it multifunctional. Use the shed to house garden furniture in the winter, then open out into a bar for garden parties and alfresco sundowners in the summer months. Cheers to that idea!
37. Elevate plants to new levels
(Image credit: Future PLC /Colin Poole)
Make the most of your small space by taking things to different levels with vertical shelving.
This planting solution creates extra space to showcase potted plants and garden accessories. No matter how small your space, you can guarantee you'll be using it as efficiently as possible.
38. Use every corner of a courtyard
(Image credit: Future PLC/Colin Poole)
If your small garden space is a courtyard think about how you can use every inch of space to full potential. Often a courtyard area has the potential to feel very enclosed, simply by the nature of looming brick walls surrounding it.
Using clever corner seating will not only use the space most effectively, the high-back sofa design can help to hide a large portion of said imposing walls. This in turn will distract from the walls and create the illusion of space.
39. Squeeze in a mini greenhouse
(Image credit: Ikea)
Even the most modest outdoor space can include greenhouse ideas for growing plants. You can find half sized greenhouses, mini versions, as well as low-level options which can run along the wall of your home or garden fence.
40. Fix planters under the kitchen window
(Image credit: Future PLC /Joanna Henderson)
Window boxes are a classic way to add planting to small spaces, but go one stage further by doubling up. Simply buy or build two simple troughs on top of one another.
It's a great place to grow herbs, especially if placed underneath a kitchen window. Just open the glass and reach out to grab what you need.
41. Introduce low walls that double as seating
(Image credit: Future PLC /Amy Cutmore)
You might only have room for a chair or two, so what happens when friends come over? By adding raised beds surrounded by walls, not only will your plants be easier to look after, you'll also create extra places for people to perch.
Add some cushions for comfort in complementary colours to your plants.
42. Paint walls white
(Image credit: Future PLC/Nick Pope)
White paint is often used to make the most of a small space because of its brightening and lightening properties, and small garden ideas can benefit from this trick, too.
With white painted brickwork and white garden furniture, you can create a beautifully summery scheme that has serious style.
43. Plant a garden in pots to surround the seating
(Image credit: Future PLC /Keith Henderson)
You don't need a lawn to create a lush garden - and flower beds aren't necessary either. A low-maintenance 'flooring' option such as gravel is great for small gardens. Add lots of pots, filled with everything from the tiniest flowering plants to tall and bushy trees.
Finish off with some garden furniture and you'll have the perfect spot to enjoy a summer's day.
44. Trail plants up a fence
(Image credit: Future PLC /Jamie Mason)
Make use of a fence to add colour and greenery. Climbing plants and trellises are a great solution for small gardens, as they lift flowers and foliage up off the ground.
A pretty fence will do a lot to detract attention from a teeny plot - after all, if you or your visitors are focusing on beautiful roses or a hot-pink trellis, who's going to notice a garden's dimensions?
45.
Brighten with colourful furniture(Image credit: Future PLC /David Giles)
Even the tiniest terrace can be transformed into something exceptional. If your garden is short on square footage, a planted terrace can be a good solution, combining elegance with low maintenance. Simple paving such as travertine or traditional stone creates a sleek or rustic look, while clever planting will soften and provide privacy.
Just add comfortable seating to create an ideal outside room. Plus, if your WiFi should reaches to your terrace, you've got a ready made summer WFH spot.
46. Plan a multitasking garden
(Image credit: Future PLC /Polly Wreford)
If space is tight, make sure that what you have is working hard for you. A well-planned garden could have a raised flower bed, garden wall and garden seat all rolled into one.
Think about including greenery to provide shade, privacy and interest up high, while the wall would offer a handy ledge for lanterns, plus practical built-in seating.
Cushions bring the comfort of indoor living outside and add a lovely hit of colour.
47. Mix your media
(Image credit: Future PLC /Annaick Guitteny)
Make a small space attractive and ensure a crisp contemporary look with strong landscaped lines. Create interesting interlocking zones with distinctive materials, such as woodstained decking ideas, pale patio slabs and decorative stones or chippings.
Finally, plant up to let lush foliage burst through, filling the space with structural greenery for a controlled finish that’s easy to maintain.
48. Focus on furniture
(Image credit: Future PLC /Annaick Guitteny)
Place objects of interest at the end of your garden and create the illusion that your space is bigger than it is. Choose white garden furniture and position it towards the back of a paved area.
Play hide and seek by strategically planting large shrubs to partially obstruct the view; your mind will think there is more beyond to see.
Add interest with plants at all heights and in all areas – with climbers and ramblers, evergreen shrubs, sculptural grasses and ground cover, all enlivened by colour-heavy cottage-garden favourites such as foxglove and delphinium.
49. Aim high
(Image credit: Future PLC /Annaick Guitteny)
Turn a small courtyard into a lush habitat with a tactile and towering living wall. Plant up a natural focal point for a super contemporary way to add interest while keeping much-needed floor space clear for patio slabs and super-sociable seating. Balance the domineering wall with a trio of large pots with small fruit trees and bedding plants.
Living, or green, walls, once the domain of designer installations and pioneering commercial sites, are increasingly making their way into residential gardens. When it comes to how to make a living plant wall, foliage is rooted into a structure that is attached to a wall.
A range of herbaceous perennials, grasses, small shrubs, herbs and even fruit and vegetables can be used to create these vertical small garden ideas.
Try including scented plants, seasonal flowers and bulbs, but talk to your local garden nursery about plants that will suit the aspect and microclimate of the wall on which they will be grown.
50. Make room for little ones
(Image credit: Future PLC /Annaick Guitteny)
Come up with an ingenious small space that will appeal to both the design conscious and the fun conscious. Build a playhouse that blends seamlessly with the garden perimeter - here, contemporary linear fencing.
Finish off the camouflage effect with a sedum roof so the little house blends perfectly into its environment. Store brightly coloured furniture inside this elevated version of garden shed ideas so it's easy to take out for play time and return again when not in use.
51. Build a cool cabana
(Image credit: Future PLC /Chris Everard)
Include garden shade ideas in your small garden with a homemade sun lounger – a few square feet, budget materials and your imagination are all you need.
It's a fine summer garden idea you'll thank us for when the heatwave finally hits.
Take two branches, two pallets, and a fabric offcut and assemble them to create a bohemian lounger for two. Make it comfortable and inviting with a bolster in funky geometric fabric. If your garden is dominated by the overhang of a tree, angle the fabric so that it can also act as a canopy, protecting the area below.
52. Choose easily stored seating
(Image credit: Future PLC /Simon Bevan)
Choosing outdoor furniture that folds or stacks when not in use is a great way to save on precious space in a small garden. Mix and match your colours for a bright looking garden scheme.
53. Opt for a neutral scheme
(Image credit: Future PLC /Simon Bevan)
Just like indoors, opting for neutral walls and flooring can make a small garden feel lighter and brighter. Even if you have a small plot with not much natural greenery, you can create the look of a colourful garden with flower-filled pots and planters.
Plus, you can swap these in and out to create different looks for different events.
(Image credit: Future PLC/Darren Chung)
When considering small garden ideas, one of the most important things is to work out how to make the most of every inch of available space. If you're working with two levels, see if you can carve out an overhang and create a shaded area.
A lovely place to curl up with a book, or stay cosy in the evenings with a firepit without taking up any lawn square footage.
55. Pretty up with soft furnishings
(Image credit: Future PLC /Darren Chung)
Small garden ideas require careful planning if you're going to make to most of a cosy corner. A garden bench is a practical and stylish way to make an impact – if you don't mind relinquishing some precious floor space – and will be perfect for lounging should the sun make an appearance this summer!
Choose a streamlined modern design and give it a colourful makeover with exotic cushions.
How do you make a small garden look pretty?
Living green walls are ultra-fashionable and can be used to hide unsightly boundaries and add lush foliage even in a garden where space is limited.
A funky fireplace makes for a quirky focal point in the garden and allows you to enjoy summer evenings even longer (or even gives you a place to store your wood). Ask your garden designer to incorporate a built-in fireplace into their plan, or head to Amazon for a good selection of freestanding fire pits, from £30.
Bright colours will also make a small garden really sing. Naturally, you can do this with planting, but there are other ways – such choosing a brightly coloured bistro set, or even by painting your fences or shed in a vivid pink or blue.
How do you lay out a small garden?
If your want to change your small garden layout, start by looking at the existing space. ‘Look at what plants are thriving and think about where the sun falls,’ advises Katrina Wells of Earth Designs .
'If you like having the gang round for dinner, for example, you’ll probably want to position your dining table and chairs where it’s sunny. If it’s a lunchtime gathering, you’ll need some shade too. Also is there any dead space? Or a shed keeping your garden in the shade for half the day?'
Next, consider its upkeep. ‘Think really carefully about how much time you are willing to dedicate to maintaining the space,’ says London-based garden designer Charlotte Rowe . ‘If you’re time poor, more hard landscaping and sturdier plants will require much less attention than a lawn and beds with complex planting.’
Paving and gravel courtyards are still popular, while concrete is right on trend.
What are the best plants for small gardens?
(Image credit: Future PLC /Polly Eltes)
‘Start by working out the type of soil, the soil pH and the conditions in the garden, then buy the best plants for those surroundings,’ says Sally Tierney of Yorkshire Garden Designer .
'Include evergreens for year-round interest, use shrubs and trees for structure and height, and soft grasses and herbaceous perennials to add pops of colour and soften the architectural elements.
'Plant a mix of bulbs that will flower in winter, spring and autumn in easy-to-arrange pots to add drama – they’re also low-maintenance and look great in the high-traffic areas such as around the patio or a favourite bench.'
Climbing plants are great for small gardens – clematis are easy to grow, while honeysuckle and jasmine will fill your garden with fragrance.
You could also plant fruit trees and fill raised beds with veg. Is there anything more rewarding than harvesting your own fresh crop of lettuce or strawberries?
Potatoes, beans and onions are also fairly simple to grow successfully – and you don’t need acres of space to cultivate them. It's possible to grow enough to eat five a day from just 10 sq m of raised beds.
How much does it cost to landscape a small garden?
You can plan your own garden, but a trained designer will help you not only with your plant selection, but also know how best to maximise your space.
Some will also do the landscaping (or work in tandem with a landscaper) to complete the job.
Garden landscaping costs depend on the size of your garden, the complexity of the design and how much experience the designer has. An initial consultation might cost £450. A typical urban garden can cost anything from £6,000, including the design and build.
52 Best Small Garden Ideas
Rosmarie WirzGetty Images
While outfitting a small outdoor space can be challenging, it's certainly achievable. With a little creativity and a few clever design tricks to maximize space, there are so many small garden ideas to be inspired by. Double-duty patio furniture, vertical gardens and unique planters are just some of the simple and budget-friendly ways to make the most of your small garden.
If you're not sure where to begin before the warm weather arrives in your area, you'll appreciate this selection of inspirational landscaping tips and hacks that are too good not to try.
Bonus: We've included an impressive range of DIY small garden projects from some of our favorite lifestyle bloggers. This list is full of genius ideas for balconies, tiny backyards, petite patios — you name it! In short, you don't have to call Versailles home to design a stunning outdoor space: Even with a small patch of green, the plants, flowers and landscaping ideas here will make your small garden fit for a queen.
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Repurposed Shelf Garden Box
If you're partial to vintage-inspired decor and happen to have an old shelf that's been collecting dust in your home, consider turning it into a garden box. It's the perfect spot for herbs like mint, thyme and parsley.
Get the tutorial at Bless'er House »
Scared Thoughts of a Crafty Mom
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DIY Bubble Fountain
With just a few supplies, including a submersible pump, a waterproof pot and decorative river rocks, you can make your garden more zen with an eye-catching DIY bubble fountain.
Get the tutorial at Scared Thoughts of a Crafty Mom »
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Mistana
Rolf 2-Piece Galvanized Iron Wall Planter Set
Now 44% off
$30 AT WAYFAIR
If you've been longing to give vertical gardening a try, now's your chance. Go for one or two planters, depending on just how green your thumb is.
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H&M
Large Metal Candle Lantern
$30 AT H&M
Lighting is important for an outdoor space, especially if it's on the small side. Illuminate yours with this stylish metal lantern that fits one large pillar candle.
A Beautiful Mess
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Herb Garden
There's something special about an orderly display of potted plants, especially when they're in vibrant colors that showcase the beauty of the season.
Get the tutorial at A Beautiful Mess »
Sugar & Cloth
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Faux Grass Stepping Stones
You might not have a huge lawn, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a bit of grass — even if it's faux. These faux grass stepping stones are inexpensive to make on your own.
Get the tutorial at Sugar & Cloth »
Crafts by Amanda
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Mason Jar Planters
Add a country-chic touch to your garden with these mason jar planters (pint or quart size), which are perfect for herbs of all kinds.
Get the tutorial at Crafts by Amanda »
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Safavieh
Stella Glazed Ceramic Decorative Garden Stool
Now 61% off
$84 AT AMAZON $110 AT HOME DEPOT $111 AT BED BATH AND BEYOND
You can't go wrong with a versatile piece of decor like this garden stool that works for resting drinks, reading material or even a plant or two.
Plus, it's designed to withstand the elements, which means you'll be able to use it season after season.
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Terrain
Canvas Carry-All Garden Stool
$48 AT ANTHROPOLOGIE
Small gardens call for double-duty essentials. The perfect example? This nifty tool bag that doubles as a foldable chair.
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Lattice Green Wall
Obsessed with lattice? For an unexpected touch to your garden, let the pattern set the foundation for a green wall.
Lisa Romerein
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Fold-Out Shelf
Brian Woodcock
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Patterned Hanging Planters
andreusKGetty Images
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Hammock
Play up your garden's cozy factor with a stylish hammock, designed for an afternoon nap or getting lost in a good book.
Alex LevineGetty Images
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Globe String Lights
Any outdoor gathering would be so much more fun if classic string lights are in the mix, whether you choose to hang them on a fence or under a pergola.
Courtesy of manufacturer
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Fence Planters
Window boxes can be used in so many creative ways. Fill one with vibrant blooms—a great match for a white picket fence.
GAP Photos/Clive Nichols
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Vibrant Chairs
Outfitting a small space doesn't mean you have to settle for drab furniture. The brighter, the better is the way to go to bring your space to life.
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Sol 72 Outdoor
Aanya Hardwood Dark Red Meranti Potting Bench
Now 57% off
$107 AT WAYFAIR
With a roomy shelf underneath, this wood piece doubles as a mini garden "shed" for storage.
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Society6
Floral Still Life Sling Chair
Now 25% off
$131 AT SOCIETY6
When it comes to an impromptu yard game, consider folding furniture, like this floral style, to easily free up space in an instant.
ArterraGetty Images
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Square Foot Gardening
This highly efficient method divides raised beds into a grid.
Vegetables then get planted in one or more squares at a density based on plant size (e.g., you’d plant about 16 radish seeds per square, but only one tomato plant).
RELATED: The Pros and Cons of Square Foot Gardening
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Buy Ecopots Hanging Pot
$35 AT BLOOMSCAPE
Ditch those unsightly plastic hanging pots for a sleek bowl like this waterproof design that's available in four colors: charcoal, stone, clay and slate.
Mike Garten
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Flower-Filled Planters
Instantly boost your home’s curb appeal with bright blooms on each side of your front door. Expecting guests? Steal these tricks
from our home team: Add stems from a supermarket bouquet for extra fullness and mint for a fragrant burst.
Buff Strickland
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Container Gardening
SHOP POTS
Green up your patio or deck with oversized terracotta or plastic planters overflowing with anything from tomatoes to wildflowers.
(The lush lineup here creates a pretty privacy wall!)
RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Container Gardening
RazaRaGetty Images
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Potted Fruit Trees
SHOP ORANGE TREES
If you've got a tiny patio or balcony, you can grow a fruit tree. Calamondin orange or fig trees especially do well in pots at least 1 foot in diameter and 1 foot deep. Just watch out: Choose a variety that can survive at least two zones colder than where you live, because planters will freeze faster than the ground.
RELATED: 8 Fruit Trees You Can Grow Right on Your Porch
nicolas_Getty Images
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Companion Planting
Placing flowers and veggies together in the same beds doesn't just save space. It'll help boost your yields and keep plants happy by attracting more pollinators.
Mike Garten
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Fairy Garden
Think small — really small — with this adorable project. Outfitted with a mini birdhouse, rustic stones, and teeny-tiny accessories, this planter is the perfect thing to make with kids.
Get the tutorial »
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The Backyard Homestead
$19 AT GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
If you have ¼ acre of land (or even less!), you can produce your own vegetables, fruits, grains, eggs, and more — this book shares garden plans, landscaping tips, planting tricks, chicken coop ideas, and more.
Craig McCauslandGetty Images
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Dwarf Trees
Averaging about 15 feet tall and wide, many ornamental or dwarf tree varieties can handle tiny spaces. Crowd-pleasers like dogwoods, camellias, crepe myrtle, and crabapples offer both flowers and foliage too.
RELATED: The 9 Best Trees for Small Yards
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AMAZON BEST SELLER
Mkono
Mid Century Plant Stands
Now 14% off
$25 AT AMAZON
Amazon shoppers are obsessed with this cute wooden plant stand that can fit just about anywhere. Consider your yard officially Instagrammable. (Note: The plant and pot is not included.
)
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Habit + Form Rectangle Trough
$48 AT TERRAIN
If your outdoor dining spot could use a little green, try adding one of these long planters to the table. The cold-rolled steel can stand up to the elements, and succulents will adapt to even the shallowest containers.
20+ small garden ideas
Do not be upset if your site is very modest in size. A small garden has many advantages. First, it requires less financial investment. Secondly, it is easier to take care of it. Yes, and he often looks more well-groomed.
In addition, if you try hard, even in a small area you can fit not only what is necessary, but also what the soul requires. The main thing is to approach the matter wisely.
Vertical gardening in a small garden
If you do not have enough horizontal surfaces (which is the biggest problem in a small garden), you need to use vertical ones. It can be anything: a fence, a wall of a house or barn, or tall plant stands.
Thus, you will kill two birds with one stone: you will have additional space and you will be able to create a completely unique vertical flower garden.
Flower boxes for balconies can be hung on the fence. They are sold with special holders, so it will not be difficult to fix them. If you decide to place flower pots on a blank wall, first fix a horizontal grid on its surface. It is not necessary to use store pots as containers for plants. Their role can be played by canned food cans (it is better to pre-paint them) or any unnecessary small containers: small metal buckets, watering cans, etc.
Another great way to add greenery to a small garden is to install a trellis and climbing plants.
Plant stands
A vertical garden can also be created using free-standing plant stands. They do not take up much space, are mobile and can be used not only to plant greenery in any corner of the garden, but also as a screen, if you suddenly want to retire and hide from the prying eyes of your neighbors.
If you don't have a ready-made stand, it's easy to make your own. To do this, you will need a pallet, a few nails and stainless steel fastening ties. Nail the ties to the wooden planks and place the pots in them. Keep in mind that plants will grow in size over time, so leave enough space between them immediately.
Succulent beds
If your garden is very small and there is no room for climbing or large plants, create a vertical bed of succulents. It will require a minimum of free space. In addition, a succulent flower garden has one very important plus: you do not have to spend a lot of time and effort on caring for plants.
Succulents can be grown not only in the usual pots, but also in completely unusual containers. We want to offer three original ways of growing these unpretentious plants in the garden.
Do you have old shutter doors? Lean or nail them to the wall, fill the gaps with a nutrient-rich potting mix, and plant the plants in it.
To make them feel better, do not place the doors on the south side: direct sunlight can harm even such almost indestructible plants.
Another original container for growing succulents in the garden is a shoe organizer. Hang it on a wall or fence, fill the cells with earth and place plants in them. Don't forget to water from time to time.
Next to a vertical flower bed of succulents, you can put a metal table with low sides, which was previously intended for serving drinks. Fill it with soil and succulents mixed with Irish moss. It will turn out a very small, but attractive green flower bed.
Vegetable garden in a small garden
In a small garden, if you really try, you can place not only flower beds, but also a vegetable garden. Of course, you won't be able to grow all the vegetables you like. Choose crops that grow well in small spaces, such as legumes, tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, or leafy greens. Make small raised beds for them and plant several plants of each type in them.
An even more economical option in terms of space use is to make a multi-level garden. In this case, place drooping plants on the lower tier, and those that grow upwards on the upper tier. So cultures in the process of growth will not interfere with the development of each other.
An interesting variant of a mini-garden on a very small area is a raised bed-table. Plant greens in its upper part, and the lower tier will serve as a place to store tools and accessories.
It's hard to believe, but even in the smallest garden you can place a greenhouse for growing plants. To do this, you need a small glass cabinet. Place it on the south side of the house, attach it to the wall, and put potted plants on the shelves. Do not forget about watering, ventilation and shading in extreme heat - and the plants will delight you with the same harvest as in a full-fledged greenhouse.
Small garden lighting
In any garden, large or small, lighting plays an important role.
In a small area, there is not always a place for ground-based street lamps, so you have to look for other solutions.
A very simple and inexpensive way to add light at night is to use LED string lights.
An even more budget-friendly lighting option is to place ordinary household candles in glass jars and mount them on a fence or wall. Anyone can make such simple lamps with their own hands.
Floor lamps are a cheap source of light and a romantic addition to any garden - they are also handy for small areas.
Available in many forms, including solar powered, the lights fit almost anywhere in your garden and provide a powerful light source when positioned correctly.
Lamps can be placed not only along the path or on the steps, but also directly in the pots with plants - this will give the evening garden a magical look.
Small garden storage
Where can you store your garden tools or, for example, a bicycle in a small area? One of the best options is to install a small corner shed near the border of the site.
Proper maintenance will extend the life of your shovels and choppers, and you will always be able to quickly find the right tool.
If your barn is just a dream, try using a ladder for storage. This wonderful invention will allow you to compactly fold small garden accessories that do not yet have another "home". The ladder will fit perfectly into a corner or against any wall in your garden. Most importantly, do not forget to securely fasten it.
Quite often gardeners cannot figure out where to store the watering hose. We want to offer a simple, but at the same time original solution for storing the hose - a large wooden flower pot. Plants are located in its upper part, and the lower part is used as a convenient storage.
Folding garden furniture
Garden furniture is an indispensable attribute of any site. However, for small territories it should be special. The best option is to purchase or make folding chairs and a table with your own hands.
Of course, they are not the most convenient, but they are the most practical when there is a catastrophic lack of space. Such furniture does not require special care, but at the same time allows you to enjoy your garden in moments of relaxation. As soon as it is no longer needed, the chairs with the table can be folded and removed so that they do not take up space. To make your stay more comfortable, add non-chair cushions or seat covers.
The most favorite type of garden furniture for many summer residents, which provides maximum relaxation in the fresh air, is a hammock. Hang it in the shade and it will instantly turn your small garden into a place of rest and relaxation and make you feel like you are on vacation. When not in use, the hammock can be simply removed - when folded, it takes up very little space.
Good use of garden space
In a small garden, unlike a large one, every square centimeter of space should be used to the full. And then even in a small area it will be possible to realize all the dreams.
Different levels in a small garden
You can add originality to a small garden if you make it multi-level. It can be a recessed terrace and a raised lawn, as in the photo. Overhangs and steps will help open up the space by adding extra space for plant pots or garden furniture.
Hidden areas of the garden
Place interesting objects in the corner of the garden and create the illusion that its space is larger than it really is. Choose white garden furniture and place it at the back of the paved area.
"Play hide and seek" by planting large bushes to partially block your view. Thanks to this technique, it will seem that there, behind the plants or around the corner, there is something more that cannot be seen at first sight.
Mirrors as a way to enlarge the space of a small garden
In a small garden, it is useful to mask the walls as much as possible. Painting any exposed walls with green outdoor paint enhances the feeling of greenery all around, thanks to the fusion effect.
Add a decorative garden mirror to the composition - this will create the illusion of increasing space. Besides the fact that the mirror visually doubles the space, it also helps to increase the level of illumination in the dark corners of the garden.
Small container garden
A smart and simple small garden idea is to play with the height to add a sense of space and depth. It can be both plants planted on the beds, and groups of flower pots placed in the recreation area with foliage of different shapes, heights and sizes. This is the perfect solution for small patios, courtyards and balcony gardens.
We hope our selection will inspire you to create your own dream garden.
How to "make" a small garden look bigger - 7 main rules
If you are the owner of a not too extensive area, do not be discouraged. There are some great tricks to visually enlarge the space to make a small garden look bigger.
Today, not every summer resident can boast of a plot of land of 20 acres.
What if you have only 6 of them, and a significant part of the territory is occupied by a house and a garden? Landscape designers came up with the answer: visually enlarge the territory.
There are at least 7 basic rules, following which you can not only ennoble the garden, but also visually expand its space. Especially for you, we have collected them together and selected photo examples.
Rule 1
Avoid planting large trees and large shrubs at the edges of the garden. Powerful plants limit the view, covering a significant part of the territory, and also prevent sunlight from entering the area. If you cannot do without large plants, plant them at the back of the garden.
Rule 2
If you want to plant a large garden in your country house, try to plant trees closer to home. You can surround them with a building or plant on one side of it. Do not make the garden the central element of the site, it is better to move it to the side - to the buildings.
Rule 3
Asymmetric turf patterns and zoning make the space appear larger. If you do not want to sow a lawn in your backyard, you can zone the space using tiles of various shapes. Geometric shapes (squares, triangles, circles) are also great garden design elements that can visually expand the space.
Rule 4
Do not "load" the center of the field, try to keep it as open as possible. Sculptures, fountains or huge flower arrangements are not the best option for a small venue. It is better to leave more "air" in the center so that the territory does not seem cluttered.
Rule 5
Trees with branches that stretch upwards are suitable for a small garden. Plants with a spreading and voluminous crown will conceal a significant amount of space. And if there is so little space on the site, it is better to plant a "coniferous pyramid" on it instead of a weeping willow.
Rule 6
Ennoble the area with dwarf trees or bushes - neat small plants planted in different parts of the site will give the impression of a smaller version of a large garden.
