Small Garden, Big Impact: 05 Tips to Transform Your Outdoor Space

Creating a garden can be a rewarding journey, whether you have a big space or a tiny balcony. With the right approach, you can turn your limited area into something you will be proud of that showcases your personality and meets your needs.

In this post, we've gathered practical design tips that can help you make the most of your small garden. These ideas are perfect for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor area, no matter the size.

Sketch of a small garden layout

Understanding Your Space

Before diving into design changes, take a moment to assess your space. You might be amazed at how much potential your small garden has when you view it from different angles.

Start by identifying existing features such as walls, pathways, or trees that you want to keep. Consider how you intend to use the space, an area for outdoor cooking or just a place to relax in the summer evenings.

It is essential to also consider the sunlight exposure of your space. Is your garden, balcony, or patio oriented towards the north, south, east, or west? The orientation of your outdoor space dictates the types of plants that will flourish in that area.

1- Think Vertical

Vertical gardening can be a great option in a small urban area. Setting up a plant rack against a wall allows you to cultivate small plants, bedding plants, and herbs. For those who don't want a plant rack, hanging a couple of flowering plants in plant hangers or planters on a wall or fence can provide an additional green element to your outdoor area.

Plant climbers: is your garden surrounded by a fence or walls? Green them up with an climbing plant.  Check out these top 10 climbers and choose your favourite. Don't have a wall or fence and still want to add a climbing plant to your garden? A pergola might be your way forward, allowing you to plant green climbers against it. 

Clematis flowers have stunning blooms and add vertical interest to gardens.

2- Choose a tree

While you may be inclined to choose small plants for small gardens, using a large plant can create a surprisingly spacious feel. Here are some things to consider when buying a tree:

Height and spread:

One of the key factors to consider is the potential growth of trees, even small ornamental ones, can eventually reach a height of 6-8m (20-26ft) or even more. If this height is excessive for your space, opting for a weeping variety or a large shrub could be a better choice as they tend to remain relatively compact in size.

Season of interest:

When deciding on the appearance of your tree, take into account factors such as flowering period, foliage, fruit, and bark.

Sun exposure:  Different plants have different needs when it comes to sunlight, so it's essential to choose the right location based on their requirements.

Trees under 5m (16ft) in height:

• Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy': Height 4-5m (13-16ft). Spread 3m (10ft)

• C. chinensis 'Avondale': Height 3m (10ft). Spread 2m (6½ft)

• Corylus maxima 'Purpurea': Height 5m (16ft). Spread 3m (10ft)

• Euonymus europaeus 'Red Cascade' AGM: Height 3m (10ft). Spread 2.5m (8ft)

• Magnolia stellata 'Jane Platt' AGM: Height 3-4m (10-13ft). Spread 2.5m (8ft)

• Prunus 'Hally Jolivette': Height 5m (16ft). Spread 2-3m (6½-10ft)

• Ptelea trifoliata ‘Aurea' AGM: Height 5m (16ft). Spread 4m (13ft)

• Sorbus pseudovilmorinii: Height and spread 4m (13ft)

  
  

Tree for Small Gardens - Magnolia stellata 'Jane Platt'

3- Utilize Furniture Wisely

Garden furniture can complement small spaces significantly. Choose functional pieces that don’t overwhelm your garden.

Bistro sets are ideal for compact spaces, providing versatility for entertaining guests and can be easily stored away when not in use.

Benches are a great choice for gardens with limited space, as they can be placed against walls, allowing you to enjoy your garden without occupying the central area and providing ample room to move around freely. Also, If you add a couple of chairs on their own, can be enough to enjoy your garden or patio.

4- Incorporate Pathways and Borders

Even in a small garden, pathways and borders enhance visual structure and guide the eye throughout the space. An addition of a simple gravel path can transform not only how you navigate the garden but also how guests experience it.

Another tips is to avoid placing a single pot alone against a wall or in a corner. Instead, group several plants together to create an abundant greenery effect instantly.

5- Bring in Colour and Texture

Colour and texture breathe life into any garden. In a compact area, the colours you select can dramatically influence your overall design.

Texture is crucial in a successful garden design of any kind. You can easily add texture to your planting beds by focus on leaf texture. For instance, Ornamental Grasses bring a delicate textured and complement bold colours and shaped flowers such as roses, or between structural shrub.

Texture in Small Garden - Ornamental Grasses

Embrace the Transformation

Small gardens can make a large impact when approached thoughtfully. Don’t hesitate to get creative and flexible as you embark on your gardening adventure.

Looking for more inspiration to green up your small outdoor space? Follow us on Instagram .