Getting Started with a New-Build Garden

New build gardens present a unique set of challenges, and the flat lawn on your new plot can often look a little uninspiring. It’s important when you buy a new build property not to feel completely put off by the garden, but instead to look at it as a blank canvas. With the warmer months fast approaching it’s time to get your garden in good shape for the summer. Getting started with a new build garden can be difficult, so we’ve put together our top tips for creating a new build garden that you’ll love.

Getting started

The best way to begin planning your new build garden is to spend some quality time seeing inspiration. Start by looking at your garden and envisioning your dream. Consider various styles, the plants you’d like, garden furniture, and everything else to put together a plan. Try creating a mood board or an online collection of images using a platform such as Pinterest to keep all of your ideas together. 

Soil

A common issue many people face with new build gardens is the soil. Often it can be of poor quality and composed of rubble and rubbish, but don’t worry. There are plenty of things you can do to improve the quality of the soil in your garden.

Start to bring your design to life by putting in any paths or hard landscaping. Dig over any soil that’s going to be used for plants or lawns, and remove any rubble as you go. Be sure to add a soil conditioner to improve soil drainage.

Plants

Now that your soil is ready and your design is put together, it’s time to start thinking about the plants that you’re going to put in your garden. Take a look online if you are concerned about how certain plants grow in various climates. If you have pets, it is also worth researching plants that might be dangerous for them so that you can avoid placing these in your garden. 

New build gardens are often very sparse, so bulking it out with colourful flowers, plants and trees is a great solution. If you’re looking for a fast-growing solution, buddleias and mallows are a great option. Try adding some plant pots or climbers to your garden as well.

Note – spring and autumn are the best seasons for planting, but it’s always best to read the plant manual or research the best times to get started.

Privacy

A big problem with new build gardens is the lack of privacy, mostly due to the lack of trees and high fencing. Planting your own trees or bushes is a great solution for those who struggle to find privacy. If your garden is on the smaller side, you can even buy a selection of trees that are suitable for small gardens, which can be found at your local garden centre. 

Accessorise

The most important aspect of your garden is to ensure that it reflects you. Your garden should be a place you enjoy spending your time, rain or shine! Having a comfortable seating area or place to chill out can make a major difference to the way you use your garden, so add any accessories you like. During the warmer months, you can even decorate your space with some outdoor cushions and a sun parasol to add a splash of colour.