If you’re a homeowner, property manager or property developer we know that the subject of landscaping can often feel like a bit of a dance that needs to blend the art of aesthetics with practical wisdom, not to mention the cost. We talk more about the cost in our ‘Landscaping Costs in the UK 2023’ blog.
But whether you want to enhance your kerb appeal or create a peaceful retreat in your back garden, there’s no denying the impact of a well-manicured landscape. Here’s the thing, ALS know what you’re wondering about the most. Why? Because it’s one of the questions we get asked daily.
When’s the best time to start on your landscaping project in the UK?
Spring’s Arrival: A Season of Rejuvenation
Arguably, the most popular time for landscaping activities in the UK is spring. This is when most plants awaken from their winter slumber, the days lengthen, and the warmer weather encourages both plants and people outdoors. As much as we’ve had a mixed start to 2023 (think snow in March!) the weather is (finally) getting warmer.
In an interview broadcast on BBC Radio Scotland, 2020, Richard Baines, curator of Logan Botanic Garden in Scotland, explains, “Spring in the UK, particularly late spring, is an optimal time for landscaping due to the combination of increasing daylight hours and mild temperatures.”
These conditions provide an ideal environment for plants to establish their root systems before the drier, hotter summer months.
Lee Bestall, a notable UK-based garden designer, reminds us, “Spring is also the perfect time to assess and plan your landscape, identify gaps in the garden, add new plants, and tidy up after winter.”
So springtime offers not only an ideal physical landscape but also a mental one, allowing you to assess and strategize.
We have limited availability for landscaping projects this Spring, but get in touch to see when we can get your project in our diary.
Look at our Landscaping Services Lincoln page and if you need something extra special, we’re only a phone call away.
Summer’s Height: Construction and Maintenance
While summer might be too hot for some planting activities, it’s an ideal time for hard landscaping elements such as patios, walls, and paths. The dry weather helps construction and painting jobs, and there’s less chance of rain disrupting the work. Although we can’t guarantee that we won’t see any rain this summer!
Guy Barter, Chief Horticulturist at the Royal Horticultural Society, explains, “The long summer days are perfect for construction work and larger renovation projects. The ground is typically drier, making it easier to work with, and you’ve also got more daylight hours to work with.”
If you’re looking for some inspiration when it comes to hard landscaping, look no further, we’re experts! And if you’re like us, and you want to see what the finished project will look like before we get started, why not use our 3D Landscaping & Garden Design service?
Care should be taken not to disturb nesting birds when undertaking any significant tree or shrub work, as this could be against the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It’s always worth getting an expert like ALS Landscaping in Lincoln involved. It’s far better to be safe than sorry.
Autumn’s Bounty: Planting for the Future
If you’re planning to introduce trees, shrubs, or perennials, autumn can be an excellent time to do it. “Autumn is the best season for planting trees and shrubs because the soil is still warm from summer, which encourages root growth, but the cooler temperatures reduce the stress on the new plant,” according Mark Lane, BBC Gardeners’ World presenter.
In addition to planting, autumn is also the time to prepare your landscape for the colder months ahead. Cleaning up leaves, cutting back perennials, and applying a layer of mulch can help protect your plants from winter damage.
Winter’s Rest: Design and Prepare
Winter might seem an odd time for landscaping, but it provides the perfect opportunity to reflect, design, and prepare. While the physical work might slow down, it’s the ideal time for planning and working with a landscape designer or architect if you’re considering major changes.
As leading garden designer Ann-Marie Powell suggests, “Designing in winter allows you to take a step back, review your space and plan. It means that come spring, you’re ready to hit the ground running, rather than wasting valuable growing time on the design process.”
Winter is also an ideal time for pruning deciduous trees and shrubs, as it’s easier to see the structure of the plant when it’s not in leaf.
The Right Time: An Individual Consideration
Ultimately, the best time for landscaping for you is when it suits you and your personal circumstances. If you’re working with professionals, like us at ALS we’ll do our best to match our schedule with yours.
Conclusion
Every season provides its unique opportunities, from spring’s renewing energy to autumn’s planting benefits. A well-rounded approach to landscape planning and maintenance, one that takes advantage of the changing seasons, will deliver the most sustainable and satisfying results.
So whether you’re a homeowner seeking to spruce up your kerb appeal, a property developer trying to attract prospective buyers, or a property manager maintaining a beautiful space for residents, understanding the best times for landscaping tasks can lead to a healthier, more vibrant, and well-planned landscape.
And remember, the best landscape is a loved landscape. So, get in touch with us today, and we’ll make your dream a reality!
