This text is part of the special book Plaisirs
Summer is well underway and the gardening season is in full swing. You are pampering, weeding, watering your garden… when suddenly, illuminated by the rays of the sun, you realize with astonishment that your outdoor oasis could suddenly really need to improve its appearance, to re-green the space or to renovate it. we improve the comfort. Before rearranging your plants and modifying your layout, take the time to plan the (small) changes to be made.
1. Set goals
In order to be able to properly plan your new outdoor space and determine the actions to be taken, it is imperative to define the reasons for this call for change. Here are some questions to ask yourself before transforming your outdoor living space:
• Would you like to have more space or, on the contrary, reduce the size of certain elements?
• Have any plants become invasive or too bulky?
• Do you now have less time for gardening?
• Do you want to refresh, update or change your furniture?
• Do you want to add a vegetable garden?
• Have your needs changed (eg removal of a pool or play area, addition of a spa, etc.)?
• Do you simply want a renewal of decor?
2. Move your plants
The beginning of summer is a good time to carry out a major cleaning of the garden and remove plants that seem problematic (in moderation of course). This is often one of the first steps to take to refresh your garden. Indeed, it is possible that a perennial or a shrub has become too bulky for its location or that the sunshine of the site no longer suits it, because the trees have grown. It will then be interesting (and possible by following the advice of horticulturists for effective transplantation) to relocate them in order to be able to still enjoy their beauty and maturity. Tip: Don’t transplant too quickly! Place the plants in their new environment and take a step back before planting them. Move them to choose the best location for you… and for the plant.
3. Expand or reduce your facilities
Changing the shape of flowerbeds can quickly and easily transform the appearance of a space. Using a fairly long rope or a garden hose (heat it in the sun to make it more malleable), trace the desired shapes on the ground. Before removing or adding turf, make sure the curves and lines are well proportioned, and that the shape you will achieve is really the one you want. If necessary, make a sketch illustrating the plants in order to properly relocate them and position them harmoniously in terms of colors, shapes and different heights. If you must make new acquisitions, be sure to inform yourself of the needs of the plants, their size at maturity and their maintenance.
4. Maximize the potential of balconies and terraces
Faced with the wide choice of annual plants that can be used for container growing, planning your layouts can sometimes be a colossal task. Here are some basic tips that will help you make the right choices to green your small spaces.
The choice of container
• The ideal pot should have a wide base, have one or more drainage holes and have a diameter and a depth of more than 30 cm.
• The planters must measure up to 1.2 m in length while their depth and width must be more than 20 cm.
• Hanging baskets must be at least 20 cm deep and 40 cm in diameter.
• Water reservoir containers are a good solution for gardeners who are away frequently.
• Containers made of geotextile membrane are perfect for growing vegetables and berries.
Harmonious layouts
• Each pot must be composed of a star plant, companion plants and hanging plants.
• Don’t hesitate to add ornamental foliage plants that will highlight the color of the flowers.
• Avoid placing the tallest plant in the center of your composition; the asymmetry is winning and gives movement to the creation.
• Limit the number of shades to no more than three to preserve balance and visual harmony.
5. Choose furniture
Often relegated to oblivion, garden furniture is nevertheless a decorative element that deserves our full attention. Over time, our needs change and outdoor furniture sometimes becomes inadequate. A simple brushstroke can be enough to breathe new life into it, but sometimes a few additions or a complete change are necessary. Take the time to assess your needs: dining room, bistro area, relaxation area, etc. Take steps to maximize space, and most importantly, select materials that are durable, washable, and can be easily stored. All while pursuing the goal of breathing a breath of beauty and comfort into your garden.
This content was produced by the Special Publications team of the Duty, pertaining to marketing. The drafting of Duty did not take part.