The bank holiday weekend is the perfect time to give your garden a much-needed makeover. Whether you’re planning a small refresh or a major transformation, there are plenty of ways to achieve a beautiful garden without spending a fortune. Here are eight budget-friendly garden makeover tips that you can try this bank holiday weekend.
Garden Makeover Tip 1.
Plan and Prioritise
Before you dive into your garden makeover, take some time to plan and prioritize. Identify the areas that need the most attention and set a realistic budget. Having a clear plan will help you stay focused and avoid overspending. Make a list of the materials you’ll need and check for any items you might already have at home.
Useful Tips:
- Sketch out your garden layout.
- Identify key areas that need improvement.
- Set a realistic budget and stick to it.
Average Cost: Free to low cost (depending on materials already owned)
Tools Needed: Pen, paper, measuring tape, and a budget planner
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Garden Makeover Tip 2
DIY Garden Furniture
Creating your own garden furniture is a fantastic way to save money and add a personal touch to your outdoor space. You can use pallets or reclaimed wood to build stylish and functional furniture pieces. There are plenty of online tutorials and guides to help you get started. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also enjoy the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands.
Useful Tips:
- Use online tutorials for guidance.
- Sand down wood to avoid splinters.
- Apply weatherproof paint or sealant for durability.
Average Cost: £20-£50 (depending on materials)
Tools Needed: Saw, hammer, nails, sandpaper, paint, and brushes
Time Required: 4-8 hours (depending on complexity)
Garden Makeover Tip 3
Upcycle Old Items
Give new life to old items by upcycling them into garden decor. Old tires can be transformed into colorful planters, while an old ladder can become a unique plant stand. Get creative and think about how you can repurpose items you already have. Upcycling is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly.
Useful Tips:
- Think creatively about how to repurpose items.
- Use paint to give old items a fresh look.
- Combine different materials for unique pieces.
Average Cost: Free to low cost
Tools Needed: Paint, brushes, screws, screwdriver, and sealant
Time Required: 2-4 hours
Garden Makeover Tip 4
Create a Budget-Friendly Patio or Pathway
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to create a beautiful patio or pathway. Gravel, mulch, and affordable paving stones are excellent options for creating attractive and functional garden paths. By laying the materials yourself, you can save on labor costs. Look for deals at your local garden center or hardware store to find the best prices.
Useful Tips:
- Choose affordable materials like gravel or mulch.
- Level the ground before laying materials.
- Edge your paths to keep materials in place.
Average Cost: £50-£100 (depending on size and materials)
Tools Needed: Shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, and edging tools
Time Required: 6-10 hours
Garden Makeover Tip 5
Plant Perennials and Native Plants
Choosing the right plants can make a big difference in your garden’s appearance and maintenance needs. Perennials and native plants are great choices because they come back year after year and require less care than annuals. They are also well-suited to your style, which means they will want to llok after them an dwatch they grow. If your budget allows, buy plants in bulk or visit local nurseries for the best deals.
Useful Tips:
- Research plants suited to your garden.
- Buy plants in bulk for discounts.
- Plant in groups for a more cohesive look.
Average Cost: £30-£60
Tools Needed: Trowel, watering can, gardening gloves, and mulch
Time Required: 2-4 hours
Garden Makeover Tip 6
Make Your Own Compost
Composting is a simple and cost-effective way to enrich your garden soil. Start a compost bin using kitchen scraps and garden waste. Over time, the compost will break down into nutrient-rich soil that you can use to nourish your plants. Not only does composting reduce waste, but it also helps improve the health of your garden.
Useful Tips:
- Use a mix of green and brown materials.
- Turn your compost regularly.
- Keep your compost moist but not too wet.
Average Cost: £10-£30 (for a compost bin)
Tools Needed: Compost bin, pitchfork or compost turner, and garden gloves
Time Required: Initial setup: 1-2 hours; Maintenance: 15 minutes weekly
Garden Makeover Tip 7
Install Solar Lighting
Add ambiance to your garden with affordable solar-powered lights. Solar lights are energy-efficient and easy to install since they don’t require any wiring. You can find a variety of styles, from string lights to stake lights, to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your garden. Check out discount stores or online retailers for the best deals.
Useful Tips:
- Position lights to highlight garden features.
- Clean solar panels regularly for efficiency.
- Use a mix of lighting types for variety.
Average Cost: £20-£50 (depending on the number and type of lights)
Tools Needed: None (most solar lights are plug-and-play)
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Garden Makeover Tip 8
Build a Vertical Garden
If you’re short on space, consider building a vertical garden. Use walls or fences to create vertical planters for herbs, flowers, or even vegetables. You can make a vertical garden using affordable materials like wooden pallets or hanging pots. Vertical gardening maximizes your space and adds an eye-catching feature to your garden.
Useful Tips:
- Use sturdy materials that can support plant weight.
- Choose plants suitable for vertical growth.
- Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Average Cost: £30-£70
Tools Needed: Wooden pallets, pots, nails, hammer, and mounting brackets
Time Required: 3-5 hours
Conclusion
With these eight budget-friendly tips, you can transform your garden this bank holiday weekend without breaking the bank. From DIY furniture to composting and solar lighting, there are plenty of ways to enhance your outdoor space on a budget. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to create the garden of your dreams!
As you embark on your garden makeover, remember that proper waste disposal is essential. If you have a lot of garden waste, consider hiring a skip. To make it even easier, we’re offering a special discount on skip hire during the bank holiday weekend. Contact us today or visit our website to book your skip and keep your garden looking its best.