When no space is small

With shrinking spaces and fewer bungalows, the concept of small gardens is here to stay. These gardens can be built in the front or in backyard, in balconies, or in a small patch next to the driveway. Small gardens make for intimate spaces and are easy to maintain.   Building a small garden in your home is a fairly simple task. All it requires is a set of basic tips and you're good to go.  

So, here are some pointers:    

Be plant-wise

While buying plants for your garden, don't be tempted by the variety and be an impulsive buyer. Rather, group the plants and create designs to decide what suits best for you. Consult the experts at the nursery to understand the size, growth pattern and span of every plant.  

Avoid focusing only on roses. Try adding a variety to your garden by going for jasmines, creepers with fragrant flowers or other flowers that bloom throughout the year. Plant evergreens as soft fences. You could also include seasonal flowering plants which can be replaced in your home garden.      

Where's your seat?

You can add a hammock, a swing seat or a small two-seater if you have space in your garden. Plan the seating arrangement around tall plants or shrubs so that it is surrounded by greenery and gives a sense of shelter. Also, try accommodating space for a single chair in the balcony garden. This can be easily done by elevating the pots onto tiered staging.

First impressions

If you're going for an entrance garden, avoid paving the path. Rather, you can go for tiles or mosaic to break the monotony. You could also incorporate an interesting artefact at the entrance to add an elegant touch to the  garden.  

The matter of maintenance

Quality of soil is crucial in gardening. Therefore, to improve soil health, add a generous amount of organic matter such as compost, wood shavings or ground bark. You could also bring in new topsoil.  Also, high-rise apartments have the problem of strong wind which can damage plants or lead to soil erosion. Consider a windbreak of trees, shrubs or a solid screen to protect the plants. You could also pick plants that are tough. Or, you can go for set  container plants in protected areas and water them frequently.      

Get a makeover

It is a good idea to restyle your garden once a year, especially if it's not being used often. Renovating the garden ensures that the awkward spaces are corrected and also the improves the overall quality of the home garden.