We have some good news, with Chelsea week upon us, and us unable to see those magical gardens in real life or on the television we thought that this is THE year to bring the Chelsea magic into our gardens. Yes, really you can, and it’s not too complicated. To help you on your way we have teamed up with the AMAZING Cotswold Garden Designer Susan Dunstall.
Over the last ten years Susan and her team have created beautiful outdoor spaces for a range of clients across the UK. What’s more, she has been part of an award-winning collaboration team that designed David Harber’s sculpture gardens at Chelsea Flower Show for three years running (Best Trade Stand for 2013 to 2015). So of course, naturally we were delighted when Susan agreed to give us her top tips for bringing a little bit of the Chelsea magic into our own gardens, however big or small!!
Sustainably.
Sustainability is always a big theme at Chelsea and with unpredictable weather on the cards in the future, I suggest weaving a good water storage system and some drought resistant plants into the garden. If you are investing in garden furniture, do consider the DuraOcean chairs, made entirely from sea plastic. Available to buy at Yarnton Home & Garden.
Go Vintage.
Why not add some vintage glamour and structure?
Simple but effective, I suggest adding a beautiful water feature into your garden. What’s more it does not have to be huge! Even a small water feature can bring you a much-needed moment of calm and tranquility. Zinc pots planted up with small trees can add some structure and drama.
Patios & small gardens.
Focus on the area closest to the house
and create an extra room to relax outside. Invest in new furniture that will last. Then add cushions, blankets, and a fire pit. Dress the space to suit you, vintage enamel jugs full of flowers, flower filled pots are two examples.
When buying pots for the patio make sure they are of good quality and as large as budget and space allow. Group similar ones in shape or material. For summer growing annuals try Verberna, Petunia and Cosmos then swap these out as the seasons change.
Fabulous Flowers
Flowers are of course everywhere at Chelsea!! The Grand Marquee, florist displays, all around. So why not bring some of the floral magic into your garden. Add flowering plants into your borders, add pots full of florals on the patio and vases of cut-flowers on your outdoor & indoor tables.
Grow your own.
With everyone at home a lot more, now is the time to try growing your own.
A plant-based diet has risen by 360% over the past decade!! You could start with a simple salad crop. If you are short on space, try a raised bed.
Forage.
Why not forage on one of your walks, but please do make sure you are confident with what you are identifying before eating anything. This season is all about wild garlic for your pesto & elderflower to make cordial.
If you want some advice or design help with your garden you can contact Susan via her website.