If you’re looking for a fun garden project and want to help out your local pollinators, try making one of these adorable bee hotels. Using some everyday items from around your home, you can construct the perfect place for local bees to come and have a time out.
Who wouldn’t want to help out this cute little guy?
First things first
The main part of your bee hotel will be the bee tubes. Bee tubes should ideally be between 10 to 15cm in length, and the diameter of the entrance hole should be anything between 6 to 10mm. I find that using a pencil is ideal as a mould.
We will look at two methods for creating the bee tubes, using either newspaper or old paper bags.
You will need:
– 1 standard pencil
– 1 newspaper, or a few old paper shopping bags
– Sellotape
– Weatherproof recyclable containers, such as an orange juice carton or old plastic bottle
– (optional) An old birdhouse or scraps of wood
Newspaper Method:
1. Cut each newspaper page in half, then cut each half into three evenly sized strips.
2. Soak your newspaper strips in water.
3. Wrap the wet paper loosely around the pencil.
4. Remove the pencil and leave it to dry.
5. Repeat until you have plenty.
Paper Bag Method:
Many retailers now provide paper bags for your purchases, I am sure you can think of some well known brands who do this. These bags are made of a very strong and flexible paper that also works well for bee tubes, without the need to soak and dry.
1. Cut the bag into strips of desired length.
2. Roll around the pencil (around 6 times).
3. Secure with a Sellotape.
The finishing touch
Now is the time to personalise your bee hotel. If you have any scrap wood, or ideally an old birdhouse roof, you can use these to create a sturdy structure for mounting your beehouse. But if you don’t have these, don’t worry.
The aim is to have your bee hotel between 1 and 4 metres above the ground, under a shelter. This could be anywhere you like, but a great place would be under the side of a shed roof and facing south.
If you do create a wooden structure around your bee hotel, why not paint it in some vibrant colours to get the bees’ attention.
It might seem odd to be thinking about next year’s garden already, but spring bulbs are actually best planted in the autumn. Planting them earlier allows the roots to establish over the coming months, which encourages healthier growth.
Time to get planning
Take a moment to think about where you would like to plant your bulbs for a start. Then it’s time to consider the varieties of flowers you want to grow, and the colours.
If you need some inspiration, here are our favourite springtime flowering species:
Hyacinths
One of my personal favourites, hyacinths produce the most marvellous blooms. Full of fragrance and rich in colour, they can liven up any flower bed or border. You can find varieties in a wide range of colours, and the best part – you can even grow them in pots on your windowsill.
Alliums
Can you believe these beautiful buds are actually ornamental onions? With tall stems and pops of colour, usually purple, they are perfect for placing at the back of your flower beds. An eye-catching addition to any flower display, and beautiful as a cut flower for springtime bouquets.
Daffodils
One of the most common signs that spring is here, is the timeless daffodil. Whilst the traditional yellow variety is always a winner, there are hundreds of varieties to choose from. You can also consider the miniature versions, which look particularly dainty and elegant in window boxes.
Tulips
Ranging from vibrant colours to pastel shades, there is a lot of choices available for a tulip bed. These stunning flowers are very eager to get growing, be sure to keep them cool when in storage. Tulips are best planted in mid to late autumn, and they love to be planted in groups.
Crocus
Planting Crocus bulbs in the garden is a great way to invest in long-term blooms. They spread easily and come back year after year, reminding you that spring is on its way by adding an early pop of colour to the garden. Rich in nectar, they will provide a delicious early spring feast for pollinators.
Fritillaria
Sometimes referred to with the playful name “Pineapple Lilies”, Fritillaria are perfect for adding a touch of the exotic to your garden. Ideal to plant alongside other spring flowering bulbs, they can put on a vibrant display. When purchasing your bulbs, try to seek out the largest bulbs where possible, as they will produce stronger plants.
Things to remember when planting spring flowering bulbs:
– Some species, such as Hyacinths and Tulips, will need to be planted out in the garden after their first year in a container.
– Daffodils will happily grow in containers for many years.
– If using containers, make sure to always add drainage holes to avoid water logging.
– When choosing your bulbs, find packets which state they are grown from cultivated stock.
– If growing in containers, make sure they are 30cm deep and plant the bulbs deeper than you would in the garden.
– Make sure your soil is of ample quality, it can be topped up with some nutritious compost if needed.
Pop down to your local QD store to see our current range of bulbs, we have plenty available at great value prices.
10 Amazing Tips On How to Start Your Indoor Vegetable Garden!
Guest Blog – By Tony Manhart
Published August 2022
In this article, we will give you tips on how to start your indoor vegetable garden. Tomatoes, aubergines, and peppers, for example, require a longer growing season. Most gardeners plant the seeds for these veggies inside in the spring to improve overall growth.
Starting your own seeds not only saves money over buying transplants but also promises a more profitable harvest season. It’s also a fun and fulfilling way to start the gardening season!
Discover our great range of vegetable seeds online here.
Tips for Starting Your Indoor Vegetable Garden
Tip #1: Buy your seeds from a trusted vendor
Fresher, higher-quality seeds have a greater germination rate (meaning more sprouts), giving you an advantage in growing tasty, healthy veggies.
Tip #2: Pot with the seed-starting mix
Although these mixtures do not contain any actual soil, they are perfect for sprouting seedlings. They also provide an excellent combination of drainage and water-holding capacity, as well as preventing disease troubles in vulnerable seedlings. If possible, avoid using garden soil while starting seedlings indoors.
Tip #3: Check for drainage holes in your containers
You may use recyclable pots, such as empty yoghurt containers, but make sure to drill drainage holes in the bottom so your seedlings don’t get too wet. Plastic flats and six-packs are also great options since you can reuse them year after year. You can use biodegradable pots as well.
Tip #4: You should plant the seeds at the right depth
Planting depth should be determined by the seed packaging. You don’t need to be perfect with your measurements, but make sure you don’t plant any deeper than the recommendations say. Plant the seed two to three times as deep as it is wide, according to the rule of thumb. Tiny seeds, for example, should be barely covered with soil mix, but big seeds, such as beans, should be planted approximately an inch deep.
Tip #5: Set the pots in a warm spot after sowing
Ideal areas are frequently on top of the refrigerator or near a radiator. Check your pots for signs of improvement every day!
Tip #6: Keep the seed-starting mix wet at all times
Both air and water are required for the roots of the seedlings. Keep the mixture humid but not covered by water.
Tip #7: Place the pots in a bright position when the seedlings appear
A sunny window would work, but if you can use extra fluorescent lights to provide steady light will bring the best outcome. Suspend the lights an inch or two above the plants’ heads.
Tip #8: Seedlings like a cool indoor temperature
If you can find a cooler room in your house, or you can use your garage, while still having a good light source, it will help the seedlings thrive.
Tip #9: Begin with weekly fertilization
Once your seedlings have one or two pairs of leaves, use a half-strength fertilizer. Organic fertilizers are a fantastic option since they supply a variety of nutrients as well as micronutrients.
Tip #10: Trim the seedlings once they have two pairs of leaves
You only want to maintain one seedling per container, so pick the healthiest, most strong seedling. Cut the other seedlings at the soil line and throw them away.
You can purchase compost tea or make it home for your veggie container garden. Compost tea is prepared by brewing the beneficial microbes that have been formed in a compost heap. It’s an excellent all-natural vegetable fertilizer!
Eggshells
Eggshells are a fantastic organic fertilizer for container veggie crops! It’s free, nutrient-dense, and simple to use! Plant cell walls are strengthened by the calcium carbonate in eggshells, while photosynthesis is boosted by magnesium.
Worms
Worm faeces is one of the most low-maintenance fertilizers you can use in your container veggie garden! You can start your own earthworm farm and gather your own.
Final Words on How to Start Your Indoor Vegetable Garden!
In conclusion, growing a vegetable garden indoors is quite similar to growing one outside. With our simple indoor vegetable gardening tips, you’ll be well on your way to a rich harvest even without leaving your home!
About the Author
Tony Manhart is the founder and editor-in-chief at Gardeningdream. Tony’s enthusiasm and rich experience in all things related to growing plants have led him to share his knowledge with gardening aficionados all over the world. When he is not working around his garden, Tony spends his time writing tips and tricks on various subjects related to plant cultivation and soil maintenance.
Staying hydrated is just as important for our plants as it is for us. Watering your garden regularly, and correctly, will ensure that it flourishes throughout the year. It can be tricky keeping up with a watering schedule, but we have put together some top tips to help you:
Use lots and less often
It may seem back to front, but plants do not follow the rule of ‘little and often’. Instead, give your plants a thorough soaking, then leave them longer in between watering. It’s important to let the soil dry out to avoid things like root rot.
Concentrate on the roots
Water around the bases of your plants where possible, as this will help the water to soak down through the soil and reach the roots. Try not to create large pools of water, as your soil may become waterlogged and suppress the oxygen supply to your plant.
Make a full circle
Whilst sticking to the roots, make sure to reach all sides of the plant to avoid uneven root growth. Covering all areas will ensure the plant absorbs as many nutrients as possible and creates a well-balanced root system.
Slow and steady
Be sure to apply the water slowly and carefully. Depending on the moisture level, it can take a little while for the water to absorb into the soil. If you pour on the water too fast, it will just run off.
Leaf them alone
Avoid getting the leaves on your plants too wet, as this can make them prone to leaf-mould diseases and burn marks.
Time it right
The ideal time for watering your garden is later in the evening, or early in the morning. When the temperature is cooler, the moisture can get deeper into the soil before it evaporates.
Store and recycle
If you haven’t already got one, investing in a water butt can save you a great deal of money over time. Not only will it collect rainwater that can be reused, but you can keep it topped up as well. We empty our paddling pool into ours throughout the summer, as well as any receptacles that have gathered water during rainfall.
Lawn Care Guide – How to Care for Your Grass All Year Round
By Rachael – Content Editor
Published June 2022
For many of us, the lawn is the centre of our garden, and we take great pride in keeping it looking its best. Maintaining a healthy lawn all year round is no easy task, as it requires a lot of maintenance. Our guide to lawn care is a handy reminder of all the monthly tasks that will ensure your grass is in its very best condition throughout the year.
If you want to keep your lawn pet-friendly, try Safelawn.
January & February
If there has been a snowfall, try to avoid walking on the grass too much, as it can lead to a build-up of snow mould.
When the ground is not frozen or waterlogged, try to remove as many old leaves and debris as possible.
Give your mower some routine maintenance, including cleaning and sharpening the blades. This will help it be in its best condition ahead of the upcoming busy season.
March
By now the days are getting warmer and it’s time for the initial two cuts of the year.
Adjust your mower blades so they just remove the tips of the grass. Do not use a close-cut, as it would likely lead to the grass browning.
April
Now is the time to start mowing your lawn regularly and keep on top of any weeds coming through. If you have persistent weeds, it may be better to dig them out.
If the surface is uneven and needs smoothing out, try applying a top-dressing.
You may discover bare patches, which can now be remedied with a patch fix mix.
Unless your lawn is less than a year old, it will benefit from being scarified (providing this was not done in the autumn).
Rake the grass, bringing your metal rake firmly across the surface to break up the thatch. Whilst it may look a little worse for wear at first, it will provide your lawn with great benefits over the coming months.
It’s time to give your lawn a feed. If you applied weedkiller last month, use a simple liquid lawn feed to give the grass a boost. If you haven’t applied any weedkiller yet, try a combination mix with both feed and weed & moss killer. Combination mixes are a great way to save time.
Looking a little on the thin side? Try overseeding with some lawn seed. Once you have added the seed, apply feed regularly and water if there are dry spells.
Continue to mow regularly to keep on top of growth.
June
The weather can be unpredictable this month, and during dry spells, your lawn will need to be watered thoroughly to keep it healthy.
As it’s growing season, weeds will be sprouting through regularly. You can keep on top of them by hand-pulling them or they can be spot treated with a weedkiller.
Continue to cut your grass regularly, taking just a little off each time. If your lawn is prone to Clover, try raking over the lawn before mowing to remove the runners.
July
Now that the temperature is soaring, there is the potential for a hosepipe ban. If there is a drought, your grass may turn brown and lay dormant, but it will soon revive once the rain returns.
If the weather is particularly dry, leave the clippings on the lawn surface after mowing to help seal in the moisture. Although this is not recommended if you are still suffering from weeds.
Apply some liquid or granular feed and keep on top of weeding. Rake occasionally to prevent debris from building up.
August
Continue to mow your lawn regularly and give it a good soaking during dry spells.
Prolonged periods of drought may cause cracks in the ground. These can be filled with lawn top dressing, such as compost, lawn sand or topsoil.
Be ready to get busy again, there is lots to do in preparation for autumn.
Now is the time to start mowing less often, we also recommended adjusting the height of your cutting blades to leave the grass longer. Thicker grass is better protected from potential snowfall.
Before mowing, check for worm casts that may appear on your lawn. Once dry, these can be removed with a stiff brush.
If you find any worn patches, these can be repaired with a turf or patch fix.
Scarify the area to remove any thatch, and then aerate your lawn. This process will leave holes in the ground, which can then be filled by brushing over some top dressing. We would recommend top soil mixed with grass seed for this application.
Finally, apply an autumn feed and moss killer combination.
Whilst it may not look as appealing after this treatment, it will be better prepared for the harshness of winter.
November & December
Regular raking will ensure your lawn is kept free of debris and leaves. If there is a spell of mild weather, you may need to do the occasional mowing for any active growth.
You may find your bordering shrubs and trees have grown a lot over the summer. Trim back any foliage that casts lengthy shadows over your lawn.
During long, wet spells or icy weather, try to avoid walking directly on your grass.
Before storing garden tools and machinery away for winter, give them a look over. They may require cleaning and oiling to be in the best condition for next year.
With so much needing to be done in our gardens in spring, we thought it would be helpful to share some of our top tips with you. Keeping your garden well maintained in spring will help it flourish during summer.
Where to start?
Just like the rest of our home, our gardens require some Spring Cleaning! Give your patio, decking and garden furniture a good wash down ready for upcoming garden parties.
Weed your garden beds and containers, topping them up with nutritious compost if needed. If you have a garden pond or water feature, be sure to clean out any debris and clean the filters.
Bird feeders will also benefit from a clean this time of year. Make sure to use a mild soap solution and rinse the feeder thoroughly before adding fresh food.
Take some time to look over your shrubs, trees and perennials and give them a good prune where needed. Cut back any branches which look dead, damaged or diseased. Pruning your plants before their growing season will encourage healthy new branches. If you would like more advice on pruning, we recommend this great article by Ann Whitman.
Maintain a regular deadheading routine with any plants that flower. Once the petals begin the shed, a flowering plant will start to use all its energy to produce seeds instead of flowers. Removing dead petals will encourage the plant to focus its energy on creating more blooms and it will flower for longer.
Our garden tools are perfect for getting the job done
How can I care for my lawn in spring?
There are some simple ways you can keep your lawn looking its best over the warmer months. Regular lawn mowing will deter weeds and encourage a healthy growth cycle.
If your lawn is looking a little tired, you could try applying a little lawn fertilizer to give it a boost, being sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you have a build-up of moss, a good raking of the area will usually clear it out. When patches begin to appear on your lawn, fixing them quickly will avoid further issues. You can usually pick up a patch-repair formula in the shops.
What is mulch? Mulches can be a variety of materials or coverings which are used as a protective layer on top of your soil or compost, to provide the earth underneath with benefits. Plants, trees and shrubs can all benefit from different types of mulches.
For example, adding a layer of mulch to your roses can help to suppress weeds and also provide the roses with moisture and nutrients. The most common types of mulches are organic materials such as compost, bark or well-rotted manure (smells terrible, but your roses will love it!).
You can find out more about how to mulch in your garden here at Gardeners’ World.
Nutritious compost makes an excellent layer of mulch
Get your butt ready
This summer is going to be a challenge when it comes to utility bills, so thinking ahead could save some money. Give your garden somewhere to gather and store rainwater with a water butt. They are most efficient when directly attached to the drainpipe, but you can add water collection points all over your garden.
Saving up rainwater throughout the springtime savings will reduce the need for the garden hose in summer and help you reduce your water bill. Water recycling is also incredibly helpful for the environment, a lovely additional benefit!
Garden furniture or garden buildings made of wood will often require annual maintenance, such as a topcoat. Pressure-treated wood will usually be protected for several years, however, dip-treated wood will need continued care.
Spring is a great time to apply a fresh layer of topcoat to wooden garden furniture, buildings and even fences. Choose a nice sunny day so there is plenty of time for the topcoat to dry thoroughly. Then you can relax knowing your garden is protected and in its best shape for summer.
Rounding up
Spring is the perfect time to make sure everything is in order, so you can enjoy more of your summer outdoors. Give the garden a good spruce up, look after your outdoor furniture and protect your plants. And remember, hard work in spring will pay off in summer – when you can sit back and put your feet up!
Whatever you are looking for, you can count on us to provide you with great quality.
Now that spring is here it’s time to start getting your garden ready to enjoy the warm summer days that are just around the corner. Your garden is the perfect place to enjoy the sunshine, whether you are relaxing on your own or inviting family and friends around for a barbecue. Revamping your garden doesn’t have to cost a fortune and there are some simple ways to get your garden summer-ready whilst on a budget.
Adding quality garden furniture to your garden is the perfect way to make the most of your outdoor space. Bistro sets offer excellent value for money and are ideal for patios, providing the perfect place to enjoy a drink while relaxing in the sunshine. If you are looking for something bigger, a garden sofa set is perfect for getting together with friends or entertaining guests.
When the weather gets warm enough, there is nothing better than sunbathing in the privacy of your own garden. There are plenty of options to suit all budgets and make sure you have somewhere to lie back and relax. Hammocks and sun loungers are an affordable way to stretch out and enjoy the glorious sunshine.
If you already have a garden set, why not give it a little makeover with some new outdoor cushions? Add a splash of colour with some garden textiles, or use an outdoor rug to add a whole new dimension to the space. Throws are great for staying warm during the evening time when the temperature gets a little cooler.
When the sun goes down but it’s still warm enough to sit outside, outdoor lighting can help you enjoy your garden for longer. One of the most cost-effective ways to light your garden is by using solar lights. Recharging using sunlight, solar lights don’t use any electricity or batteries – giving them zero running costs!
Why not get creative with lighting? Battery-powered string lights in painted glass jars always make an eye-catching feature. When you finish off a jar of pickles or cooking sauce, give the jar a wash and keep it to one side. Add a quick coat of glass paint and pop in your battery-powered lights and you can give your outdoor space some beautiful themed lighting.
Summer is barbecue season and who doesn’t love a freshly grilled burger from the barbecue? With the current increase in energy prices – BBQ cooking might be one of the cheaper ways to cook this summer! Barbecues are perfect for parties where all your neighbours, family and friends are around to enjoy a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Whilst some of the larger models can be a little pricey, there are plenty of budget barbecues to be found. Smaller charcoal barbecues are inexpensive and still provide a great way to get your grill on. Investing in the right barbecue for your outdoor space means you can enjoy outdoor cooking all summer, which provides a lot of low-cost entertainment for friends and family.
One of the easiest ways to create an attractive and colourful garden space is to fill it with plants. This can sound like an expensive task, but there are cheaper ways to do this – if you are willing to be a little patient.
Getting ahead of the season with plants is the easiest way to get more for your money. Planting bulbs during winter is a cheap way to fill planters and garden borders, ready to bloom when the warmer weather arrives. You can also pick up packets of flower seeds for a low price and nurture them in seed trays, ready for transplanting in Spring. Growing your own flowers is the cheapest way to get an abundance of flowers.
Room to grow
If you have left it too late in the season to start from seeds, have a look at bedding plants. You can pick up large trays full of spring-flowering bedding plants at great prices. These colourful flowers tend to spread out quickly if well looked after and provide a cheap way to fill large areas with a burst of colour. The Sunday Gardener has some great advice on planting bedding plants.
Many shrubs and trees can be purchased as “bare root” plants, which are usually much cheaper than an established mature plant. Although they look a little unappealing in this state of growth, given the right conditions they will grow to be beautiful mature plants. With a little patience, you can create a beautiful garden space on a small budget.
Find fantastic paintbrushes for your Garden upcycling.
Spruce it up
It doesn’t always have to be a case of “out with the old and in with the new”. Some structures in our gardens may just need a little TLC. If you have some dilapidated wooden furniture or a sad-looking fence, there are things you can do to give them a quick facelift.
Sanding down rough wooden surfaces and applying a fresh coat of either wooden paint or varnish, can really give the wood a new lease of life. You can even use this as an opportunity to add some personality to the space. Why not try a new colour scheme? Grey exterior wood paint is becoming increasingly popular for outdoor spaces and provides a contemporary aesthetic.
Keep it clean
We all have our cleaning routines for around the house, but we might forget the garden. Cleaning down your patio, garden furniture and plant pots can leave your outdoor space sparkling and fresh. Weeding in between paving slabs and gravel patches can really tidy up the space.
Plastic, metal and rattan furniture can also be given a freshen up with a good clean. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines before cleaning to ensure the best outcome. Read here for some great advice from Good Housekeeping.
Enjoy the space
When the weather is good, be sure to get outdoors and enjoy it. Spending time in your garden is a great way to identify quick fixes and areas that need some attention. Little changes can make a big difference, and they can all be made within budget.
Whatever you are looking for, you can count on us to provide you with great quality.
If you are contemplating investing in a new garden building, you may feel a little overwhelmed by the variety available. That’s why we have put together a guide on how to choose the right garden building for you. Let us guide you through the main types of garden building available for your outdoor space, and show you the benefits of each.
When deciding on a new structure for your garden, keep purpose at the forefront of your mind. A garden building has to work for you and make your life easier, so make sure it has everything you need. Whether you are looking for a new outdoor hangout or a practical space for working, read on to find the right style for you.
What different kinds of garden buildings are there?
Garden buildings come in all shapes and sizes, but the most common varieties are sheds, workshops, summerhouses, greenhouses, potting sheds, playhouses, storage sheds and log cabins. To help understand them a little better, let’s take a look at some of the varieties in more detail.
Garden sheds are perfect for tidying up your outdoor space.
Garden Sheds
An all-rounder and brilliant storage provider, the garden shed is still one of the most popular types of garden building. Sheds are typically windowless but can have windows added, and their purpose is primarily storage. If you need somewhere safe and dry to lock away your garden valuables, then a garden shed is the perfect choice for you.
Can you paint a shed a different colour?
Yes, the best thing about opting for a wooden garden building is that it gives you the flexibility to paint the outside to any colour or design you desire. It is important to make sure you have the correct materials and paint for the job. Discover a great little guide on shed painting here.
Spend more time enjoying your favourite hobbies with a garden workshop.
Garden Workshops & Garages
If you are looking for a larger outdoor space and need a building you can spend time in to get jobs done, then a garden workshop might be your answer. Being one of the largest garden buildings, a workshop provides a space similar to a traditional garage. Before choosing a size and door style, think about the types of machinery that will be stored inside and how much workspace you will require.
Can I use a storage shed as a workshop?
You can use a storage shed as a workshop, as long as it provides you with ample space for the work you are doing. Make sure you have headroom and a big enough space to move about without the risk of injury or knocking things over. Try and make sure the building has plenty of windows and natural light if you are planning to spend lots of time in there.
Relax with friends in a summerhouse, whatever the weather.
Summerhouses
Let there be light! A summerhouse makes for a wonderful garden room and is a great way to increase your overall living space. The main defining feature of a summerhouse is that they have a multitude of front-facing windows, in order to soak up as much sunshine as possible. They are usually fitted with double doors or large sliding doors, so that they can be opened up on the hottest of days.
Kitted out with your choice of decor and furniture, you can transform a summerhouse into a relaxing sanctuary, home office or even a home gym! Place your summerhouse in the direction of the sun according to the time of day you are most likely to use it. Treat your garden to somewhere you can enjoy no matter the weather.
Our greenhouses are designed with functionality in mind.
Greenhouses & Potting Sheds
A gardener’s delight! Take your gardening to the next level with your own greenhouse or potting shed and create the perfect space to grow more. A greenhouse provides somewhere safe and warm for plants to flourish, typically with a glass roof and plenty of windows. Glass surfaces help create a warm environment, perfect for fussier plants and seedlings.
Is a potting shed as good as a greenhouse?
Potting sheds are a combination of a greenhouse and a garden shed, giving you the best of both worlds – making them perfect for small spaces! Potting sheds are usually designed with one side of windows to act as a greenhouse for your plants, whilst the other side can be used for storing gardening equipment.
Encourage more time in the garden with a playhouse.
Playhouses
Garden buildings are not just for grown-ups, playhouses make wonderful garden additions for younger generations. Create an outdoor space designed just for them and encourage little imaginations to grow. Easy to customise, you can paint the playhouse in their favourite colours or even create an exciting theme for the space.
Do wooden playhouses need a base?
Like all wooden garden buildings, a playhouse that comes into direct contact with the ground will require a suitable base. There are a variety of bases you can choose from for your outdoor building, but it is important to factor in the cost of a base when you are budgeting.
Storage sheds are specially designed to house a variety of outdoor objects. For example, bike sheds are the perfect size to keep your bike locked away safely, ideal for placing in the front garden for easy access. In general, storage sheds and outdoor stores are compact in size and unsuitable for standing inside.
How do you hide wheelie bins?
You can hide your household wheelie bins easily with an outdoor bin store. Designed perfectly to fit your bins, a bin store is an attractive way to conceal your outdoor bins. You can even get designed with planters on the roof, providing additional space for planting your fabulous florals.
Now, the bar shed happens to be my personal favourite! With all the features of a regular garden shed, but with a built-in bar! The serving hatch can be closed in between uses, leaving you with a fully functioning storage shed for the winter months.
Serve your guests in style this summer and have the perfect place to hang out on sunny afternoons. Wooden bar sheds can be customised easily to suit your style and needs. What’s not to love?
And finally, there is the increasingly popular log cabin. Imagine the perfect balance between a summerhouse and a garden shed, and you will have the log cabin. Designed with outdoor living in mind, you can use the interior as additional living space. However, the windows are small than that of a summerhouse, making it easier to insulate in the winter months.
Give your garden a versatile living space where you can throw open the doors on a hot summer’s day and soak up the sunshine. When winter arrives, keep the doors closed and still enjoy being closer to nature, enjoying the views from your cosy garden log cabin.
Whatever style of garden building you are looking for, you can count on us to provide you with a great quality product.
Spend time connecting with nature on World Planting Day, the 21st of March, and get growing. It’s officially springtime now and there is no better time to start planting!
What does World Planting Day celebrate?
World Planting Day is on the 21st of March and was created to raise awareness of the benefits of plants, and encourage people to plant more. You can choose to honour the day in any way you wish, but if you are not sure where to start, read on to discover some great ideas.
The earlier months of the year are perfect for starting off seeds indoors. Most vegetable and salad seeds love being in a nice warm environment and will get the best start in life this way. Once your seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted into the garden in pots, planters or straight in the ground.
No matter the size of your outdoor space, there is something everyone can grow. You can even grow tomatoes and peppers on your windowsill! Impress friends and family over the summer with a homegrown side salad for your family BBQ.
Our garden plants are perfect for beds and borders.
Brighten up your borders
Annual bedding is a beautiful way to add colour to your patio or garden. Window boxes and hanging baskets can be brought back to life with some fresh additions. You should start to see bedding plants arriving in stores soon and they are an inexpensive way to create an impressive floral display.
Gardening is a fantastic way to not just connect with nature but to connect with loved ones too. Planting something new together is an exciting and rewarding activity for all ages to enjoy. Whether you are planting seeds, bulbs or new shrubs – enjoy watching them grow together.
We think these are perfect for pots.
Primp your pots
Give planters and pots a makeover with some fresh florals. If you have a smaller garden space or patio, pots are a brilliant way to add colour and texture. Flowers and shrubs should have no problem growing in large pots, but you can even grow certain types of trees! Perhaps you’d rather turn your patio into a potted vegetable patch? Create a space to grow delicious fruits and vegetables to enjoy later in the summer.
Root for trees!
Planting a tree will provide your garden with heaps of benefits, and also help the local wildlife. They will take a longer time to grow but can become part of the family over the years. Why not start your own orchard at the bottom of the garden with some fruit trees? It’s always a good idea to check local council guidelines on trees before deciding which ones to plant.
Alexa, water the plants
Don’t forget your houseplants! World Planting Day is a great opportunity to remind us to check in on our indoor plants. Make sure your houseplants have ample room in their pots, a good way to tell is to look at the roots to see how established and compacted they are. Treat any squashed plants to new containers and top them up with some fresh, nutritious compost.
Give them a little trim up and make sure their needs are being met. If you haven’t got any yet, why not treat yourself to a new houseplant to celebrate the occasion?
Spending time planting will help to give your well-being a little boost, as being close to nature is good for our moods. Go on, be brave this World Planting Day and try growing something new.
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