Embarking on your first garden adventure doesn’t have to be daunting
When you move to a new house or apartment, you can spend so long unpacking and creating a haven indoors that your outdoor space often takes a back seat until summer rolls around and you realise you don’t want to soak up the sun in an overgrown garden or bare balcony.
Luckily, it doesn’t take much to make a difference and with a little dedication, you’ll have a garden to be proud of and that you want to spend time in.
AVOCA’s seasoned gardener, Des Carton, shares his expert advice for creating a thriving outdoor area, even if you’re short on time, space or experience.
Small plants, big impact
Des recommends starting with compact evergreen shrubs and varieties, including Dwarf Japanese Azaleas and Dwarf Rhododendrons. These charming shrubs stay under three feet tall and require minimal upkeep, making them perfect for novice gardeners.
Easy herbs
Fresh herbs elevate any meal, and Des suggests starting with low-maintenance options like sage and rosemary. These aromatic herbs thrive with minimal attention, rewarding you with fresh flavours for your culinary creations.
Evergreen elegance
For year-round colour with minimal effort, as well as increased privacy, Des recommends incorporating small evergreen shrubs into your garden. These hardy plants provide structure and visual interest, brightening your garden even during the colder months.
Des recommends these beginner-friendly, dense hedges and shrubs:
- Portuguese Laurel: A fast-growing and robust choice for a lush, green privacy screen.
- Privet hedges: A classic choice for their dense foliage and adaptability.
- Photinia Red Robin hedges: Add a splash of colour with their vibrant red new growth.
- Evergreen Bay Laurel: Create a lush, natural screen with these graceful ferns, bay leaves can also be used in cooking to add a burst of flavour to dishes.
- Miscanthus grass: These ornamental grasses add height, movement, and a touch of whimsy.
Native charm and biodiversity
For a touch of Irish charm, Des suggests these native hedges:
- Hawthorn: A haven for wildlife with its beautiful blossoms and dense growth.
- Alder hedges: Fast-growing and tolerant of various conditions.
- Blackthorn and Whitethorn hedges: Classic choices known for their dense, thorny structure.
With Des’s guidance and a little dedication, transforming your first home or rental space into a green oasis is easier than you think. Remember, even the smallest garden can bring immense joy and life to your doorstep.
Click here for more tips from Des on what plants to sow over the winter months.
