No dig flower borders – easy, weed-free and brilliant
I’ve always wondered about ‘no dig flower borders‘ for annuals, shrubs and perennials. Not that I ever do much digging. But I wondered if the principles of no dig veg…
RHS Chelsea 2026 has decisively moved away from perfect lawns, large ‘outdoor room’ expanses of new paving, plants that need to be cosseted and a constant battle with soil and…
I’ve always wondered about ‘no dig flower borders‘ for annuals, shrubs and perennials. Not that I ever do much digging. But I wondered if the principles of no dig veg…
August in the Middlesized Garden is a bit of a mixed bag. August has been called ‘the Sunday of summer’, and there’s a lazy, idle feeling about the garden at…
Garden seating can be a focal point or add colour to your garden, for entertaining friends or as storage. 30 clever ideas from real gardens.
What you need to know about creating a garden for entertaining. How to install an outdoor kitchen, plant for privacy and more.
A small garden or backyard needs a big idea. You can let a larger outdoor space evolve. And by ‘larger’ I mean any garden more than about 80ft (25m) long….
Beautiful plants and stylish garden screens to make your windy garden look stunning. And you’ll really enjoy being in it!
If you want to update your garden on a budget, RHS Hampton Court Flower Show has lots of good ideas. There are, of course, the top show gardens, where the…
I’ve been meaning to organise the shed for years. It was cold, messy and full of clutter, with nowhere to put anything. So seeds and tools started to spread around…
Create a mini meadow lawn in your garden, however small it is. These tips will give you such a pretty and wildlife-friendly lawn, and you’ll avoid making mistakes!
Do you like your town gardens beautifully designed? Or do you prefer the upcycled look? Where do you put your veg patch? It’s always fascinating to see how different town…
Self-seeding plants are easy-care, pretty & free. Equally perfect for cottage and contemporary gardens – here are 25 reliable self-seeders.
Whitstable Open Gardens is held every year in June for the NGS. But even if you’re nowhere near Kent, let me treat you to a few of the summery seaside garden…
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Contemporary cottage garden style – the power of the 70/30 rule
How to achieve the prettiest contemporary cottage garden style – and why the 70/30 rule will make your planting so much more successful.
How to turn a wide shallow backyard into the perfect garden
How to divide up a wide shallow backyard or garden – turn it into a beautiful outdoor space with just a few clever tips.
The really easy guide to pruning hydrangeas
Confused by contradictory advice on how and when to prune hydrangeas? This post makes it easy to achieve beautiful blooms year after year.
Don’t dig up dahlias for winter! What to do instead….
I don’t dig up dahlias to store them over winter. And before you dig your dahlias up, it’s important to know the pros and cons. Do I have to dig…
The absolutely best way to prune English lavender beautifully
Find out how to prune English lavender to make it look better and last longer. Photos of my lavender from 2013-2023 are proof that it works!
How to plant a border like a pro
How to plant a border brilliantly – design tips and practical advice. How to position shrubs and flowers in the best places, plus other tips.
