Year Round Garden Design with ALS Landscaping
Let’s be honest – most gardens in the UK tend to peak in summer, then spend the rest of the year looking a bit sorry for themselves. But it doesn’t have to be that way. With a bit of planning and some clever landscaping, your garden can be a place of beauty and interest all year round.
1. Structure: The Garden’s Backbone
Think of structure as the bones of your garden – the bits that stay put and keep things looking good, even when the flowers have called it a day. We’re talking about things like evergreen shrubs, ornamental grasses, and hard landscaping elements like paths and pergolas.
For example, evergreens like boxwood or holly provide lush greenery in winter, while ornamental grasses add movement and texture, especially when frosted over. Why not visit our Projects page for inspiration and to see what we can do?
2. Seasonal Planting: A Year-Round Show
A well-planned garden offers a succession of blooms, ensuring there’s always something catching the eye. Here’s a seasonal breakdown:
- Spring: Bulbs like daffodils and tulips burst forth, signaling the end of winter.
- Summer: Perennials such as lavender and salvia provide vibrant color and attract pollinators.
- Autumn: Plants like sedum and asters offer late-season blooms, while trees like acer showcase fiery foliage.
- Winter: Evergreens and plants with interesting bark or berries, like dogwood or holly, keep the garden lively.
By selecting plants with varying bloom times and features, you create a dynamic landscape that evolves with the seasons. If you’re looking for some inspiration, check out our Best Landscaping Plants for Year Round Colour blog.
For more, take a look at the RHS ‘Keep Your Garden Looking Great All Year’ blog, and Gardener’s World article How to Plan for Year Round Colour.
3. Hard Landscaping: More Than Just Practical
Paths, patios, and walls aren’t just functional, they’re opportunities to add interest. Using materials like natural stone or reclaimed wood can introduce texture and warmth. Features like raised beds or retaining walls can also create levels, adding depth and perspective to your garden design.
Adding elements like water features or sculptures can serve as focal points, drawing the eye and providing interest even during the dormant months. Here’s one we did earlier! If you’re looking for the ‘WOW’ factor, could your’s be next?
4. Lighting: Extending Enjoyment into the Evenings
As daylight hours wane, especially in autumn and winter, garden lighting becomes essential. Strategically placed lights can highlight key features, illuminate pathways, and create ambiance.
Consider solar-powered lights for an eco-friendly option, or low-voltage LED lights for energy efficiency. Uplighting trees or washing walls with light can add drama and extend the usability of your garden into the evening hours.
Take a look at our How to Make Your Garden Glow for more tips on outdoor lighting.
5. Wildlife-Friendly Features: Bringing Life to Your Garden
Encouraging wildlife not only supports local ecosystems but also adds movement and interest to your garden. Features like bird feeders, insect hotels, and native planting can attract a variety of creatures.
For example, planting nectar-rich flowers like buddleia can draw butterflies, while berry-producing shrubs provide food for birds during the colder months. And if you’re looking for more inspiration on how to encourage wildlife into your garden, don’t forget to visit Our Wildlife Friendly Garden blog.
6. Professional Landscaping: Tailoring to Your Needs
While DIY gardening can be rewarding, professional landscapers bring a wealth of knowledge and experience. They can assess your garden’s conditions, recommend suitable plants, and design layouts that maximize space and interest.
Whether it’s creating a low-maintenance garden, installing efficient drainage systems, or selecting plants that thrive in your specific soil type, professionals ensure your garden not only looks good but functions well throughout the year.
Wrapping It All Up: A Garden That Delivers All Year Round
Creating a garden that turns heads whatever the weather isn’t just for those with huge budgets or endless time – it’s about making smart choices and understanding what works for your space. With the right mix of plants, clever hard landscaping, and a bit of creative thinking, you can enjoy a garden that looks good in January as well as in July.
Whether you’re just getting started or ready for a full garden transformation, having a chat with a local expert can make all the difference. At ALS Landscaping, we’ve helped homeowners across Lincoln and the surrounding areas create outdoor spaces that are not only beautiful, but work hard for them year-round.
Ready to bring life to your garden in every season? Get in touch with our friendly team today. We’ll make sure your garden is something to look forward to, no matter what the British weather decides to do.
FAQs
How can I make sure my garden has color year-round?
Add a mix of plants with varying bloom times, foliage colors, and structural features. Evergreens, ornamental grasses, and seasonal flowers can provide continuous interest.
What are some low-maintenance options for year-round appeal?
Opt for hardy perennials, evergreen shrubs, and mulched beds to reduce weeding. Incorporating hard landscaping elements also minimises upkeep.
Can I attract wildlife without compromising on design?
Absolutely! Many native plants are both attractive and beneficial to wildlife. Features like birdbaths or insect hotels can be integrated seamlessly into your design.
Contact Us Today
If you would like to find out more about our wide range of landscaping and garden design services please contact the team at ALS Landscaping today.
