Diy garden on a budget: How To Create Your Own Garden Pond — Pond Habitats

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How To Create Your Own Garden Pond — Pond Habitats

What’s one of the best things you can do in your garden to help wildlife? The answer is simple – make a garden pond. But where do you start?

‘Many Brits quite rightly think a pond is a quick and easy way to liven up their gardens, but it’s important not to break ground before carefully considering your plan,’ explain the team at GardenBuildingsDirect.

‘Digging too deep or wide and straight down or in the wrong place could all impact the quality of your final pond. Failing to consider drainage and what species might call it home could spell disaster too, so we’ve advice for gardeners ready to take the plunge.’

With wildlife declining across the UK, it’s vital we do all we can with our outdoor spaces to make them a haven for insects, birds and small animals.

Water is a vitally important element of a wildlife-friendly habitat, and once you have water you’ll get toads, frogs and maybe newts, and from there you’ll get birds and hedgehogs –you’ll be amazed at what beautiful creatures find their home in your pond.

Planning on building your own garden pond? These are eight tips to get you started.

TIPS FOR A DIY POND

1. Decide the depth

      When planning ahead for your pond, consider what depth you want to opt for. Shallower ponds are better suited for displaying ornaments and rocks, as well as giving you the chance to interact more with fish and wildlife.

      If you’re looking to build a deeper pond, they will be less affected by algae because light can only reach a percentage of the water. It’s worth knowing however, that deeper ponds do require a more expensive pond liner. Plus, fish may swim to the bottom and hide.

      ImageegamI//Getty Images

      2. Keep your pond suitable

      Remember to carefully consider the size of your pond. One that takes up most of your garden won’t be very convenient for you, while a small puddle-sized pond equally won’t make much of a difference to wildlife.

      Location can be crucial, too. Take the time to consider the proximity to your house, flower beds, fences and any areas where children play. See more below for garden pond safety with young children.

      3. Opt for simple shapes

      Gentle curves are the best kind for a garden pond. The temptation of wanting to experiment with jagged edges and interesting shapes can often creep in, but these will eventually erode over time. Unless you are able to reinforce your pond’s sides regularly, choosing a simple shape is the best way to create a brilliant wildlife-friendly pond.

      ginton//Getty Images

      4. Avoid vertical walls

      Reinforcing vertical walls in a garden pond can be more difficult and costly, as it requires larger rocks that are heavier and more expensive. Shallow banks (which are ideally less than halfway to a right-angle) enable smaller stones to be used as loose reinforcement.

      5. Don’t forget to protect the bottom

      It’s important you protect the bottom of your pond to prevent burrowing animals from chewing at the pond liner. Make sure you lay down a protective metal mesh sheet along the floor of the pond and cover it with an even layer of dirt. Then, don’t forget to put a strong pond lining in that covers all sides.

      Try not to buy the cheapest pond liner either, as you want to stop unwanted dirt and water creeping in. It’s better to invest in something which will last. You can shop a range of pond liners at Bradshaws Direct.

      6. Level the perimeter

      The water level for a garden pond will only be as high as the lowest points around the perimeter. If the edges are too uneven in height, water could flow out at a steady rate — particularly in heavy rain.

      farbenrausch//Getty Images

      7. Don’t forget drainage

      To stop heavy downpours from creating your pond to flood, identify and implement an overflow area by creating a drainage channel to a safe area of lawn, shrubbery or waste land. You’ll be thankful for this during the wet weather.

      8. Fill it carefully

      When you’re ready to fill your pond, make sure not to overfill it. It’s advised you leave room for rain. Pick appropriate plants and fish too, and try to stay away from any invasive plants that could ruin your pond.

      SAFETY

      grbender//Getty Images

      Please remember to avoid any kind of open water in the garden if you have young children. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) advises parents with children under 6 years old to temporarily cover ponds until they are older. You can do this by:

      • Covering the pond by using a rigid metal grille
      • Choosing a fence (at least 1.1m) and ensuring access points such as gates are kept locked
      • Fill it – transforming your pond into a flowerbed or even a sandpit

      For more advice on garden water safety click here.

      POND MAINTENANCE

      welcomia//Getty Images

      Pond maintenance should become a regular task, like weeding, when spending time in the garden. The team at BillyOh.com share five ways to keep ponds well-maintained:

      1. Cleaning

      The best time to clean a pond is in late autumn when pond life is generally less active. Start by preparing a holding tank for the fish and deep-water plants to be kept in whilst cleaning; this should be filled with water from the pond.

      Use a pump to remove the water, placing any animals into the holding tank as you see them. Put any plant material at the bottom of the pond on the side to help keep smaller animals safe. Remove all the silt and scrub the pond clean.

      Return some of the silt to the bottom of the pond, add in the plants and fill with water – rainwater is best. You can put the fish straight in once the pond is refilled.

      2. Water Levels

      Ensure water levels are constantly topped up by ideally using conserves of rainwater to fill up the pond.

      3. Weeds

      Just like you would weed your garden, ponds also need weeding. If you pick out the floating weeds, place them on the side of the pond overnight to give any creatures clinging to them a chance to make their way back to the water.

      4. Frost

      As the weather gets colder there is more chance of ponds freezing over, and potentially killing the wildlife inside (depending on how severe the frost is). You can melt the ice by placing a hot pan on the surface. Floating a ball on the surface of the water can delay frost or installing a pond heater or water feature.

      5. Oxygen

      Fish need oxygen to survive and they find this in the pond water. If it becomes too stagnant, they could potentially die. In summer, or during a long period without rain, spraying the surface of the pond with water from a hose can break the surface. Having a water feature will also help aerate the water whilst it’s moving.

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      10 of the best hedgehog houses for gardens

      Featured on TV

      Wildlife World Hogilo Hedgehog Home

      Now 28% Off

      £68 at Amazon

      Credit: Amazon

      • Featured on BBC’s Autumnwatch.

      • Made from durable FSC timber and recycled plastic.

      • The swivel roof lid provides easy access inside the Hogilo for cleaning, feeding or tending to recovering hedgehogs.  

      • An overhanging roof and porch gives protection against the rain.

      Most stylish

      Wudwerx Wooden Hedgehog House

      £120 at Not On The High Street

      Credit: Notonthehighstreet.com

      • Entrance tunnel into shelter prevents cats, dogs, and foxes from getting in.

      • Removable back panels allow easy access for cleaning of the house.

      • Made from FSC wood.

      Most durable

      Garden Life Hedgehog House

      £30 at vanmeuwen.com

      Credit: Van Meuwen

      • Made using durable wood and features a waterproof roof, pre-treated with hedgehog-safe water-based varnish to ensure it survives the elements of British weather.

      • Camouflaged green roof keeps the hedgehogs safe and out of sight.

      • Made of durable fir wood and features a pitched roof that helps water runoff. 

      Best sturdy frame

      National Trust Hedgehog House, Wicken Fen Collection

      £35 at National Trust

      Credit: National Trust

      •  This rattan hedgehog house provides a safe habitat with a sturdy steel frame covered with a waterproof felt lining.  

      • The wooden entrance door forms a short predator defence tunnel, small enough to deter access by dogs or badgers.

      Most Camouflaged

      Garden Selections Tiggy Wooden Hedgehog House

      £30 at Not On The High Street

      Credit: Notonthehighstreet.com

      • Handmade from natural barkwood with moss for added camouflage.

      • The doorway provides extra protection as it protrudes from the main body of the shelter.

      Best waterproof roof

      Waitrose Garden Igloo hedgehog home

      £33 at Waitrose Garden

      Credit: Waitrose & Partners Garden

      • Provides a cosy sanctuary from pets, predators, harsh weather and garden tools.

      • Accommodates a family.

      • Features a felted waterproof roof covered with a brush wood finish and decorated with rattan bands.

      Easy to clean

      Tom Chambers Hedgehog House WL014

      £47 at Amazon

      Credit: Amazon

      • Solid, sturdy safe house.

      • Made from stained FSC wood and genuine slate roof, which keeps the house cool in summer.  

      Perfect for single hedgehog

      Garden Trading Hedgehog House

      £55 at Garden Trading

      Credit: Garden Trading

      • Safe and secure with a small opening to prevent cats, dogs and foxes from getting in.

      • Crafted in Spruce, the sturdy and durable material is left untreated, as chemicals can be harmful for the inhabitants.

      Snug shelter

      Waitrose Garden Hedgehog house

      £30 at Waitrose Garden

      Credit: Waitrose & Partners Garden

      • Sturdy hedgehog house provides a snug shelter.

      • Pitched and felted roof helps water run off to prolong the life of the wood.

      • Made from fine-grained timber.

      Price-friendly

      Garden Selections Hogitat Hedgehog House

      £22 at Not On The High Street

      Credit: Notonthehighstreet.com

      • Sturdy, rust-proofed steel frame and waterproofed roof.

      • It’s an economic & safe retreat for hedgehogs.

      Lisa Joyner

      Senior Digital Writer, House Beautiful and Country Living

      Lisa Joyner is the Senior Digital Writer at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she’s busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market.

      Olivia Heath

      Executive Digital Editor, House Beautiful UK

      Olivia Heath is the Executive Digital Editor at House Beautiful UK, covering tomorrow’s biggest interior design trends and revealing the best tips, tricks and hacks to help you decorate your home like a pro. Week by week Olivia shares the most stylish high street buys to help you get the look for less and showcases the best real homes, from House Beautiful’s One Room Renovation video series, to the hottest and most unique properties on the market. 

      How to Start a Garden on a Budget

      The materials you need to start a garden can add up in cost. Here are six ideas for starting a garden on a budget without breaking the bank.

      This page may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure for more info.

      Gardening can seem overwhelming when you consider all of the materials you need to get started. Seeds, fencing, soil, tools, and more can add up—even on a generous budget.

      Unfortunately, we can’t sprinkle magic fairy dust and have everything we need to instantly start a garden. 🙁

      Gardening for the Budget-Conscious

      Reader Question: Have you kept track of how much money you spend on your garden supplies, from seeds to fencing, to gravel and tools? I am feeling a little overwhelmed with all of the supplies I need to purchase to work on my yard.

      Amen to the overwhelm!

      Overwhelm is a common feeling when starting any new hobby or lifestyle. Take that daily yoga routine I’ve been wanting to start, or learning to play the ukulele. It just seems too much to take on if I also add a budget restriction. It makes me want to throw in the towel before I’ve started!

      See, sometimes we let feelings of overwhelm talk us into procrastinating because the problem just seems too big to overcome. But let’s see if we can find some small, actionable steps that help us move forward with our garden plans (before procrastination sets in) even if we are cash-strapped.

      Speaking of overwhelm, I wrote more on that topic in my article 7 ways to start a new homestead. It highlights more things you can do while saving money for your big garden dreams.

      Here are six ways you can start a garden on a budget.

      Garden on a Budget –

      Action 1: Start Slow

      Gardening can be quite expensive in the early years when you’re setting up the infrastructure of the garden.

      It would be easy to spend upwards of $1,000 a year* buying many of the necessary supplies and equipment! However, it would be very difficult to grow $1,000 worth of food in those first few years.

      That’s not a glowing endorsement for breaking the bank and rushing into things!

      The return on investment of vegetable gardening tends to be gradual. You’ll grow more produce each year as you hone your skills and become accustomed to the conditions of your little slice of heaven (soil, sun, water, climate, etc.).

      Ultimately, it can work in your favor to garden on a budget. It means you don’t have to break the bank to get started!

      Start small, and the money you spend on development can be gradual to match the gradually increasing return. Expect your first year to be the starting point that it is. There’s no where to go but up!

      In other words, Patience you must have, my young padawan. 🙂

      *$1,000 is a random number I made up. Someone who is building a shed, raising chickens, and putting up fences might spend more than that, while someone building a single raised bed in their backyard may spend less than that.

      Either way, you can expect your garden development to cost more than you think it should and more than you wish it did.

      Grow a garden that’s both productive and manageable with my Complete Garden Planning System, which includes practical tools for planning your season from seed to harvest.

      Garden on a Budget

      – Action 2: Observe More, Do Less

      One benefit of starting slow is that you’ll get to observe the gradual changes of your garden over time.

      As I developed my previous permaculture edible landscape over the course of eight years (complete with berry bushes, fruit trees, rain gardens, raised beds on the driveway, a composting system, and more), one thing I said over and over is how thankful I was to have a restricted budget.

      Because I didn’t have the resources to develop the entire landscape in the first year, I did it bit by bit, year by year.

      And you know what happened?

      Every time I developed one little bit and observed how it worked within the larger system, I discovered something I hadn’t thought of, and that discovery changed and improved the next little garden project (saving me time and money).

      This happened through trial and error, and at the end of eight years, I had developed something that I hadn’t envisioned in the first year. The resulting landscape was prettier, more functional, and more robust than I had originally imagined; all because I took it slow and observed along the way.

      Garden on a Budget

      – Action 3: Save on Raised Beds

      Read more about raised beds:

      • Are Raised Beds Right for You?
      • Gardening in Raised Beds on Pavement

      Save on Building Materials

      On my new homestead I want to build raised beds, but the price tag on rot-resistant lumber, such as cedar or redwood, is a nightmare! However, since these types of wood are ideal for longevity and keeping contaminants out of the garden, the price may be worth it.

      If you decide raised beds are in your future, you can still garden on a budget while you save for those expensive materials.

      Try adding compost to the existing soil and gardening there. You may find it works wonderfully, and that raised beds aren’t actually necessary. But if not, consider it practice!

      Here are some budget-friendly, raised-bed materials:

      • Cinderblocks
      • Galvanized stock tanks
      • Logs
      • Pallets (see picture below)
      • Rocks

      Pallet raised beds

      Here’s how to tell if pallets are safe for gardening projects.

      Save on Raised Bed Soil

      This is a biggie! Raised beds take A LOT of soil. Importing bulk soil can be expensive, as well as potentially toxic for edible gardens. Unfortunately, bulk compost soil can be contaminated with herbicides, which may damage crops and poison soil for years.

      I now aim to make most of my own soil so I know what I’m getting, starting with building a composting system. This means some delayed gratification on my part. There are a few things I need to do to keep herbicides out of my own compost soil, even though I don’t use herbicides in my own yard.

      Building your own soil saves money, but you’ll have to wait a year while it makes itself (Still, it’s so cool that it makes itself!).

      Some DIY approaches to building soil include starting worm bins for composting kitchen scraps, shredding and composting leaves (pick up curbside leaf bags in the fall/winter), yard waste (from your own no-spray yard), and free wood chips (contact local tree trimmers or Chip Drop).

      These composted materials add soil structure, bulk, minerals, and micronutrients.

      It may take longer to build your beds, but they’ll be healthier without breaking the bank. And it’s better than importing contaminated soil that could take years to restore.

      With a little delayed gratification, you’ll be ahead of the curve.

      Spreading homemade compost on spring garden beds.

      Would you like more pointers for starting your garden on a budget?

      You’ll find more of my tips, tools, and life hacks (including the 15-minutes-a-day garden) in my award-winning book, The Suburban Micro-Farm.

      Garden on a Budget

      – Action 4: Choose the Right Tools

      When I first started gardening, I didn’t have any tools for digging or building a landscape. So I started out with the cheapest tools I could find. Some of them came from my parents’ garage that they no longer used. Others I found at garage sales and discount stores.

      If I wasn’t starting a garden on a budget in my first year, I would have gone out and bought a bunch of tools I thought I needed. But they wouldn’t have been the tools I actually needed!

      To find out what tools I actually needed, I needed to get started, get my hands dirty, and discover what I needed.

      This is a round-about way of saying that if you have to start out with cheap or poor-functioning tools, you’re actually in a good place. Weird, I know!

      You’ll quickly discover which tools would make your life better because they’ll be the ones you always reach for. You’ll groan with frustration because they’ll be the ones that break, give you blisters, or make you work twice as hard.

      Through this process of just getting started, I discovered which tools were going to give me a good return on investment, and I purchased good quality versions of them as the cheap ones broke or as I found money in the budget.

      If you’re considered to be on a low income, there may even be some non-profits or other local assistance to help you access the tools you need. If you live in a neighborhood association, you may be able to borrow tools from a community toolbank, which lends tools to non-profit organizations.

      A good gardener—regardless of budget—is resourceful. It makes good sense to start out with what you can hunt down, and add the things you truly need later.

      My top five favorite tools for my no-till garden are:

      1. Felco Pruning Shears (for cutting woody plant matter)
        • (F 7 Felco) Pruners for Large Hands
        • (F 12 Felco) Pruners for Medium Hands
        • (F 17 Felco) Pruners for Left Handers
      2. Hori Hori Garden Knife
        • Garden Knife for Left-Handers
        • Garden Knife for Right-Handers
      3. Heavy Duty Digging Fork
      4. Stainless Steel Garden Shears (for cutting green plant matter)
      5. Winter Garden Gloves
        • Men’s Winter Gloves
        • Women’s Winter Gloves

      I purchased these nicer versions as soon as I could, somewhere between my second to fourth gardening years. I’m sure I whined about it until I convinced Mr. TAF that they needed to be in the budget! 🙂

      But you know what? I appreciate them immensely because I planned ahead, chose the right tools, and budgeted for them.

      Build your own soil to save money and know what you’re getting.

      Garden on a Budget

      – Action 5: Forage for Other Awesome Materials

      Things like garden borders and pathways can be made up of whatever you have on hand, especially if you’re starting your garden on a budget.

      For a DIY border that keeps kids and dogs out of the garden, try collected rocks or wine bottles. If you don’t personally enjoy wine, simply ask at your nearest bar or restaurant; I’m sure they’d save some for you!

      I enjoy lining beds and pathways with split firewood that is past its prime.

      Ask your friends and family for possible useful items. Remember, their junk could become your treasure, and everybody wins! Craigslist and Freecycle are great places to check, too.

      Garden on a Budget

      – Action 6: Become your own Seed/Plant Vendor

      Learning a few skills is a great money-saver when you want to garden on a budget. You might seek out free local classes or find more information online.

      Starting your own seeds can save money that you would normally spend on purchasing seedlings. If you have a greenhouse or cold frame, you’re way ahead of the curve.

      Starting your own seeds indoors under lights saves money in the long run. However, this solution requires you to purchase a lot of equipment up front, so I don’t recommend it until you have a few years under your belt and can invest in this extra equipment.

      Saving your own seeds is a really rewarding experience. How amazing would it be to start off spring planting with your own seeds that you saved from your own plants? This is a worthwhile skill to learn that doesn’t cost you a thing!

      Here are a few resources about seed saving:

      • Seed Saving 101
      • Storing Seeds for Long Term Seed Saving

      Grafting is a technique for creating fruit trees, among other plants, that meet specific needs. It works by attaching the tissue of one plant to the tissue of another.

      For example, if one variety of apple is known for its strong roots, and another variety is known for its disease-resistant fruit, tissues of the two can be attached together to create a hybrid variety that is more robust.

      This skill can help you to produce a whole lotta fruit trees for a very low cost! Here’s a great tutorial on grafting.

      You can also propagate many fruit crops for free by taking cuttings from existing plants. Your friends and neighbors will likely be happy to donate cuttings.

      Homegrown and saved coriander (cilantro) seeds

      The Hard Truth About Gardening on a Budget

      The beginning years of developing a garden or edible landscape certainly cost more both financially and in terms of sweat equity. This is understandably overwhelming to think about, but remember that small, actionable steps are what will move you forward.

      At the end of eight years at my old house, the garden and edible landscape were fairly well established, so I spent less money each year on buying seeds and miscellaneous supplies.

      However, the first few years are quite different! I’m reminded of that now that I’m beginning to develop my new homestead. I’ll have to build it in stages as my budget allows.

      It’s hard to delay gratification when you’re so excited to start a garden, but you’ll be rewarded for budgeting, planning ahead, and starting small.

      In the meantime, observe your landscape through the seasons, creatively source the items you need, and practice gardening even if the situation isn’t ideal. You might also want to consider asking for gardening-related gifts. My Gift Guide for Permaculture Gardeners includes some of my favorite products that make gardening with nature a fun and rewarding experience!

      Stay focused on the small actions you can take to move forward, and your dreams will become reality!

      What is your tip for starting a garden on a budget? Share it in the comments below!

      READ NEXT:

      • 5 Reasons to Homestead in the Suburbs
      • 5 Myths About Starting a Micro Homestead
      • Year-Round Gardening: It’s Easier Than You Think

      A beautiful but inexpensive, budget garden with your own hands – advice from a landscape designer

      Contents ✓

      • ✓ FOCUS ON SHRUBS.
      • ✓ SELECT PLANTS FOR SPECIFIC GARDEN CONDITIONS.
      • ✓ PLANT LARGE FLOWERS IN LARGE ARRAYS.
      • ✓ STICK TO THE CHOSEN COLORS.
      • ✓ CREATE A LIST OF NEW PRODUCTS BASED ON THE PLAN OF FLOWERS.
      • ✓ BUY PLANTS FROM LOCAL NURSERY OR FROM HONORERS ON THE MARKET.
      • ✓ A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN WITH YOUR HANDS – UNUSUAL PLANTS – VIDEO It started a long time ago when I moved into my house. At first I planted several types of flowers, then more and more … It’s almost impossible to stop! I buy something new all the time.

        And even though I tell everyone that I have an easy-care garden and no capricious plants, last spring I bought roses, to them – astrantia, sage, geranium. And also – veronica, burnet, stonecrop, stephanander and gypsophila. And new varieties of hydrangea paniculata, and beautiful fruit with purple berries …

        EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR THIS ARTICLE IS HERE >>>

        And every spring the aggravation begins. Already ordered seeds, but I want everything and a lot! But the sale of seedlings and seedlings is still ahead . ..

        In fact, gardening is one of the most expensive hobbies. I am even afraid to count how much money was spent on seedlings, soil, fertilizers, various preparations and tools for the garden. And what about the automatic irrigation system, lawn equipment, arrangement of recreation areas, outdoor furniture and decor?! And how many expensive beautiful plants I have lost – Japanese maples, rhododendrons, clematis, heathers, podbelas. They were just planted in the wrong place, and I did not provide them with proper care.

        But I really want the garden to bring pleasure, to be well-groomed, with healthy plants and not take a lot of effort, time and money. How to minimize financial and time costs without sacrificing beauty? I will share my secrets.

        FOCUS ON SHRUBS.

        One flowering bush, spread over 1-1.5 m, will cost less than flowers in the same area, and will also look great. For example, weigela, mock orange, lilac, spirea, budley, rhododendrons, azaleas, hydrangeas of different varieties. They bloom profusely and, unlike flowers, retain their foliage all season long and create structure in the garden during the fall and winter. And caring for shrubs is much easier.

        SELECT PLANTS FOR SPECIFIC CONDITIONS IN THE GARDEN.

        For example, if the place is sunny, plant sun-loving species. Roses, shrubs with colored foliage only in the sun will show all their beauty. If a wet shade – shade-tolerant and moisture-loving. It will be comfortable here for hydrangeas, hostas, astilbes, Siberian irises. Acidic soils have their favorites. Rhododendrons, blueberries, lingonberries, heathers and ericas will grow well in such conditions. Lavender, fescue and other southern plants are great for dry soil.

        I have been trying for a long time to grow a large-leaved hydrangea planted in a lawn in full sun. Constantly watered and even covered it with an umbrella in the heat. However, the result was not encouraging. But as soon as I sent her “into exile” behind the house in a shady, damp place and simply forgot about regular care, a miracle happened. The bush blooms continuously every year until autumn, and even on a hot afternoon it stands beautiful, with elastic leaves.

        TO PLANT LARGE FLOWERS IN LARGE ARRAYS.

        Do you remember the rule “Less is better”? The simplest perennials that can be grown from seeds or propagated by cuttings or division, planted 5-9 copies together, will look better than one, even the most beautiful and expensive flower. For example, echinacea, monarda, loosestrife, oak sage, yarrow, stonecrop, individually, can be lost in the garden. But large arrays, as in the flower beds of Piet Oudolf’s New Wave, will create a simply stunning effect. Of course, not everyone likes this meadow style. Roses, peonies, lilies and other spectacular flowers are still favorites in our gardens. But even if they do not quite match each other in color or shape, then with the help of a couple of natural perennials and cereals they can be combined into one. For example, add unpretentious and inexpensive Fassen catnip and oak sage as partners. They are easy to grow from seed or propagate from cuttings.

        Last year I bought a sage bush in a pot and tried it on with my plants. Looks great with everyone! And the catnip, which I planted throughout the garden, simply transformed it and added lightness and tenderness to all flower beds and mixborders with its purple haze. Of the favorite novelties – liatris spicata. I ordered a lot of it at once (35 tubers) and planted in groups of 9-11 pieces. In the first year, he pleased with his lilac spikelets, which created bright accents in the garden, especially against the background of paniculate hydrangeas.

        See also: Design options for very beautiful flower beds (planting plan + design)

        STICK TO THE CHOSEN COLORS.

        Here, as in the wardrobe. No woman wears all the colors of the rainbow. Each has its own style and favorite shades. So it is in the garden. Remember the two plus three rule? Maximum of three colors and two shapes or vice versa. You can make contrasting and nuanced compositions. But this is a topic for a separate article. The main thing is to find your colors, then the choice of new plants will decrease significantly and you will not buy plants that do not suit your style.

        COMPLETE A LIST OF NEW PRODUCTS ON THE BASIS OF THE PLAN OF FLOWERS.

        Yes, yes, yes, we need a plan! In order to have less spontaneous purchases of plants and much thought about where to plant it all, and then transplants and alterations, you need to know what you really need. It is advisable to determine the budget in advance.

        BUY PLANTS FROM LOCAL NURSERY OR FROM HONORERS ON THE MARKET.

        First, you will see what you are buying and will be able to check the quality of the seedling. Secondly, the cost of plants in small nurseries and private individuals is lower than in online stores. Thirdly, the survival rate is usually better too.

        I am going to a nursery with a list and a certain amount of money (so as not to overspend). I try to pass the flower rows in the market. I commend myself for being patient. But still, I periodically break down (after all, it is difficult to get rid of any addiction) and buy a new plant. And I rejoice in this, like a child given a toy. But I do not have a question where to plant a novelty. In the garden area, I have a mini-nursery, where, like in a kindergarten, all unplanned acquisitions grow under constant supervision and supervision. And when they get stronger and grow up, I find them the best place in the garden. There, on a separate bed, I determine especially valuable specimens for subsequent reproduction. You can even make a flower garden collection and collect your favorite plants of different varieties and species there. You also need to encourage yourself.

        It is very difficult to completely get rid of flower addiction, and it is not necessary. Everywhere you need a measure and “a little bit” is always good!

        Related link: Scheme of a beautiful flower garden – planting plan and plants (PHOTO)

        BEAUTIFUL GARDEN WITH YOUR HANDS – UNUSUAL PLANTS – VIDEO 0091 Watch this video on YouTube

        © Author : Tatyana Mager, blog author @hobby_t_sad Photo by the author

        ORDER QUALITY AND CHEAP SEEDS AND OTHER PRODUCTS FOR HOME AND COTTAGE. PRICES CHEAP. CHECKED! JUST LOOK FOR YOURSELF AND BE SURPRISED. THERE ARE REVIEWS. GO>>>

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        Looking for inexpensive ideas for a garden? Making your summer cottage budget is easier than you think. We have selected some quick solutions to help you save money. Proper lighting, garden cinema, outdoor bar and other ideas for your summer cottage.

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        Dacha / Garden plot

        life hacks

        Ideas for giving

        landscape design

        Freepik

        Paint effect

        You will be surprised how much an old fence in the country house can be transformed if you paint it yourself, and create a stunning backdrop for greenery and gem-colored plants. And what color to choose? For a dramatic look, choose black.

        The depth this color gives is magical for garden designers: paint the fence black and it disappears, the barn becomes less attractive, and the old bench suddenly becomes a chic center of attention.

        This is a great idea for a cottage if you want an instant effect. Don’t forget that you can breathe new life into your plant pots by painting them.

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        Planting by dividing perennials

        A cheap way to set up your backyard and fill your flower bed with gorgeous plants is to buy perennials that you can divide. This may seem like advanced gardening, but it’s really not that hard. This method is suitable for shrub-forming perennials such as heveas, astrantias and hardy pelargoniums.

        Simply take the plant out of the pot and divide it into two or three parts, each with several stems and roots. Dig a hole and plant each piece in a flower bed. The next year, when they grow and grow in your dacha, you can dig them up and divide them into parts again to get even more plants.

        In a couple of years, you will have a wonderful show for very little money. For a medium-sized garden, six geranium plants are usually sufficient.

        DIY lawn from scratch

        The cheapest way to have a thriving garden is to grow a lawn from seed, as turf is expensive and difficult to lay. When planting seeds, you have much more control over which types of seeds will land on your new lawn.

        For example, if you want an aesthetically pleasing lawn, you should pay attention to the slender fez – it forms a dense turf with bristly, dark green, glossy leaves.

        What’s more, if you sow your lawn in the spring, you won’t have to wait long for it to grow – it’s an easy and economical way to update your outdoor space.

        Shape

        An easy and cheap way to transform your yard is to mow your lawn into a well-defined shape – circle, square or oblong. You can mark with the help of twine, and then cut off excess grass with a shovel. This is an easy job and will only take half a day. And thanks to our instructions, you can make an alpine slide with your own hands.

        Use plants in containers

        No lawn? Container gardening is a very simple idea to make your garden look beautiful with flowering plants. This method is especially ideal for porches, awnings, patios, balconies and other paved areas.

        Remember that containers can restrict root growth, so you need to ensure an even supply of water and good drainage, and choose the right compost.

        Get creative with storage

        All items that are no longer needed in your apartment can find new life in the barn. For example, an old shoe rack can be used to store garden shoes, or hung on a barn wall and provides a great place for garden items like paint cans or tools.

        Cozy outdoors

        As an extension of our homes, outdoor spaces become like “rooms” so it’s essential to bring coziness to the garden. An easy way to do this is to invest in an outdoor rug.

        Bring a little personality to your outdoor space with a bold color or bold pattern that will also help zone the space. Accessorize with a few garden lights and outdoor cushions.

        Make your own garden bar

        Do you want to have a place for entertainment in your garden? If you can’t afford to buy a ready-made garden bar, transform your yard with a DIY cocktail bar.

        There’s no need to invest in an expensive ready-made bar when you can turn a cheap and fun potty bench by day into a chic drink station at night with simple, wallet-friendly paint.

        A quality primer saves you the hassle of tedious sanding, so all you have to think about is choosing the right shade. Pink will give your bar a retro touch, cornflower blue is the perfect tone for an English garden, and pistachio tones will blend seamlessly into the spring foliage.

        Don’t forget to coat the bar with a waterproof top coat to keep your sunny cocktails summer after summer. And, of course, don’t forget to decorate it: Add colored glassware and your favorite drinks, and finish off by decorating the bar with succulents and greenery.

        Start a vegetable garden

        Grow vegetables in even the smallest space and save a lot of money. Just separate the plot of your dacha, prepare the soil and plant vegetables. Not only will this be a great addition to your garden, but it will also provide you with your own supply of delicious vegetables.

        Beans, peas, chickpeas and other legumes are also a staple in the vegetable plot. Moreover, they can become an excellent fertilizer after they have completed their fruiting. We also invite you to read about other fast-growing vegetables that can be grown not only in the country, but also at home.

        Reuse old furniture

        One of the most cost-effective gardening ideas is to simply reuse old furniture! You can give old and boring furniture in your home a new life in the garden.

        Old sinks and vanity tables can be turned into fancy planters, while pallets can be turned into planting tables, furniture and more.

        Wooden pallets are not only cheap and easy to get, they are also incredibly versatile in the garden. Take this plank pallet, mount it vertically on a barn wall, and you have a place to store your gardening tools. This type of solution is cheap and very effective.

        Hanging baskets

        Do you want to quickly decorate your summer cottage? A very simple and inexpensive way to do this is to install several hanging baskets. Choose plants like fuchsia, verbena or petunias, or you can even grow vegetables like tomatoes.

        Make the birds happy

        If you are looking for ideas to attract wild animals to your summer house, install a bird feeder, bird bath or bird house. More birds are attracted to your outdoor space, which means you can listen to the birds singing, which is great for your well-being.

        You can buy this feeder, or if you’re looking for a cheaper way, wash old cans, then paint them, fill them with bird seeds, and hang them in the garden for your own homemade feeder.

        Transform your space with light

        It’s all about the atmosphere! Outdoor lighting is a quick, easy, and cheap way to bring a beautiful glow to your gazebo and beyond, and there are so many styles to choose from. Solar-powered garden lamps are popular, as are battery-powered street lamps, which include garlands and lanterns.

        If you use string lights in your yard, you can run them through the branches of trees or shrubs, attach them to fences and furniture, or hang them from canes stuck in the ground. Stretched across a pergola, archway, or even around an umbrella, garlands always look great and create the perfect setting for al fresco dining.

        Use stake lights

        Buy stake lights to scatter among bushes, place on your lawn, or stick into window boxes for an instant wow factor effect. They are very inexpensive and add a beautiful decorative touch to your garden, no matter how small.

        For solar lanterns, it is enough to put them in a sunny place in the country house so that they are charged for the whole day. When evening comes, the lanterns will automatically shine with a bright light.

        Do-It-Yourself Pond

        Another great way to spice up your garden is with a pond, and it’s not expensive at all. Simply collect the pebbles and rocks, dig a hole in the garden, protect the bottom of the pond with waterproof material, and hide it with the pebbles and rocks. Then fill the hole with water to make a pond.

        Make your own compost

        One of the easiest ways to save money and reduce the cost of gardening is to make your own compost.

        Purchase a bin and turn kitchen and garden waste into organic matter that can be used to mulch garden borders and fill pots to encourage plant and vegetable growth. This idea is not only cheap, but also a great way to make your cottage even greener.

        Open air cinema

        Create an outdoor cinema using materials from your home. With the help of a white sheet, clothespins and twine, you can instantly transform the space for watching a movie. Then all you have to do is buy a projector.

        Plastic bottles

        Plastic water bottles take an average of 1,000 years to decompose, so don’t throw them away and reuse them.