How To Make The Most Of Your Garden In Winter

You probably won’t be spending much time in your garden as the year comes to an end. But don’t let your outdoor living space go to waste! Follow these five top tips from The Greenhouse People to help you make the most of your garden in winter.

Invest in lights

Darkness is one of the biggest obstacles to enjoying your garden in the winter. But this is easily remedied with some strategically placed lights.

Solar fairy lights can make a stunning addition to your garden. Not only are they perfect for  illuminating dimly lit gardens, but they also add atmosphere and romance without being expensive to run. Wrap them around pergolas or string them across fences for a whimsical touch.

Alternatively, why not look to introduce an outdoor fire pit for added warmth and light? Toast some marshmallows or simply cosy up with a blanket to create wonderful winter memories. Just be sure your fire pit is a safe distance away from any structures to avoid creating a fire hazard.

Remove soft furnishings (but keep them close by)

While throw pillows, blankets and rugs can help make outdoor living spaces look ultra-cosy, it’s not practical to keep soft furnishings out during the wet season.

Best to keep them safe and dry in storage while you’re not using them. Make sure any storage you have is easy-to-access for when you need to quickly grab a blanket on cold winter nights. A water-tight storage bench, for example, is a great way to quickly stash soft furnishings and can double up as a seat for when guests come to visit.

Alternatively, look for  weather-proof options you can keep out all year round. Make sure to give them a wipe-down now and again to prevent dirt from building up.

Prep your garden furniture

Just like your plants may need a helping hand to get them through winter, garden furniture can also be winterised to aid longevity.

Firstly, you must keep your furniture clean and free of dirt. Use a soft-bristled brush to wipe off any dried mud and dust. Gently wash wooden or plastic framed furniture with soapy water before allowing it to dry.

You should also look to cover your garden furniture to protect it from harsh winter weather while not in use. Garden furniture covers can be purchased for as little as £20 and are a great investment to keep your furniture looking its best for as long as possible.

Find shelter

Looking up at the stars might seem like a romantic way to spend your winter evening, but being open to the elements is a sure way to kill a good time.

Providing some shelter will not only help protect yourself and your furniture when the weather turns bad, but will also help trap in heat, making for a more comfortable time outdoors.

To do so, you should create a canopy over your seating area. This can be done by setting up a temporary gazebo, hanging a waterproof tarpaulin over your pergola or even setting up a simple parasol.

If you have a large greenhouse or garden shed, you could also consider moving your garden furniture inside for ready-made protection from the elements.

Introduce winter-hardy plants

While winter can leave your garden looking a little bleak, you can still make your patio area look inviting by switching out any dead plants with plenty of evergreen or winter-hardy species.

Ivy can look lovely trailing in hanging baskets while soft shield ferns can make even wintery gardens look lush.

Or for those looking for a burst of colour, winter-flowering plants such as snowdrops, winter heather, clematis and pansies can add brightness to dull winter gardens.

Get more Gardening tips from the “Friend”.