Affordable Landscape Garden Design

Budget-Friendly Tips for Soft Landscaping: Expert Advice from Hekla Saunas and Gardenesque

As interest in budget-friendly landscaping solutions grows, with searches for “Landscaping prices near me” increasing by over 600% and “DIY landscaping garden” up by 130%, experts Matt Draycott from Hekla Saunas and Ali Wooldridge, gardening expert and co-founder of Gardenesque, share practical tips for transforming your garden affordably.

Whether you’re preparing your outdoor space for a new feature like a sauna or hot tub, or simply refreshing the layout for summer gatherings, these tips can help you achieve an attractive garden without overspending.

1. Create Defined Zones:
“If you prefer organization, design distinct zones for different functions,” suggests Ali Wooldridge. “For example, place a seating area close to your home for convenience when serving food, and position a vegetable patch in a sunny spot.”

2. Establish a Focal Point:
Ali advises, “Highlight a key feature of your garden, such as a secluded bench with surrounding flowers or a painted wall with strategically hung plants.” Matt Draycott adds, “To make larger features like a hot tub or sauna stand out, surround them with shrubs and climbing plants for added privacy and appeal.”

3. Build a DIY Walkway or Seating Area:
Matt recommends using affordable materials like gravel or bark for walkways and seating areas. “Mark out your space, lay landscape fabric to prevent weeds, and fill it with your chosen material. Ensure the soil is level before laying the fabric,” he says.

4. Redesign Flower Beds:
“Changing the shape of your flower beds can refresh your garden’s look,” says Ali. “Use tools like shears or a garden hose to create straight or curved edges. A wooden plank or garden hose can help guide your cuts.”

5. Add Borders for a Polished Look:
Borders can define different garden areas and prevent plants from spreading. “Use materials like stones, bricks, or chicken wire to create borders. Place stones in a row or dig a trench for bricks, adding sand to stabilize them,” Ali suggests.

6. Incorporate Solar Lighting:
Matt highlights, “Lighting can enhance your garden’s ambiance. Use solar lights along paths or around focal points, and opt for soft lighting to avoid disturbing wildlife.”

7. Refresh with Paint:
“Applying a fresh coat of paint to fences, seating, and other features can make them look new,” says Ali. “Summer colors like pastel pinks, lilacs, and blues work well. Alternatively, black can create a bold contrast and remain stylish year-round.”

8. Negotiate with Professionals:
Matt advises, “When hiring professionals, quotes are often negotiable. Obtain written quotes from multiple contractors and use them to negotiate a better price.”

These tips can help you create an inviting outdoor space on a budget, making your garden ready for summer enjoyment without breaking the bank.