8 money-saving landscaping tips
Changing up your garden can be a costly exercise (not to mention tiring and time-consuming) but a beautiful garden where you can relax and enjoy is worth the price. However, it still doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Just take on board our money-saving landscaping tips for a new garden at half the price.
Do your research
Look to gardening books, magazines, websites and Pinterest for endless inspiration! Cut out (or bookmark if you’re on the internet) pictures you like and get an idea for what you’re after. This will help you narrow the list of what you need to buy and what you need to do. Keep that in mind when you get free advice from under-trained or overzealous staff at garden centres. Trust your instincts! You know your garden.
Make a plan
Sketch a landscape design so you know exactly what you need and where it’s going. This will stop wastage on materials, effort and time. It will also stop you impulse buying – remember don’t buy anything that doesn’t already have a planned place in the garden.
Re-arrange plants
An easy way to get a new garden look without purchasing more plants is to re-arrange the plants you have now. Remember to check if plant types are compatible though.
Time your purchases
Price and quality can vary quite drastically at different places and different seasons. Comparison shop to see if you’re getting the best deal or wait until sale season and stock-up.
Check alternate resources
Look beyond stores - you can find great deals on plants, tools or bric-a-brac for decorations at garage sales, car boot sales and markets. If you’ve got a green thumb neighbour, they might be happy to share some perennials and some local council’s offer free mulch and compost.
Make your own compost
Compost is easy to make yourself and has so many uses for your garden.
Test the soil
A simple test will tell you what your soil lacks, saving you from spending money on the wrong plants. Check the pH level as well to ensure it’s not too acidic or alkaline.
Choose native plants
Select plants that grow naturally in your region will means less maintenance cost. Ask your local nursery and check out which plants are thriving in neighbouring gardens.
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