Have we forgotten how to play?

Remember when you used to climb trees, camp out in makeshift dens and pretend to be Robin Hood (just me?)

In our busy adult lives, have we forgotten how to play? What if you could bring some of this magic back into your life through your garden and rediscover the simple pleasures of your childhood.

No matter how much space you have to play with you can experiment with creating different areas or “rooms” within your garden. You could leave one area of your garden to go “wild” by planting wildflowers to attract pollinators, creating a rockery with hardy alpines that will encourage nature (and fairies of course). A winding pathway that leads to this magical area will add intrigue.

A mini woodland at the end of your garden creates a shaded place to relax on a hot day as well as fuel for the imagination, so hang up some fairy lights and create your own Midsummer Night’s Dream.

A safe haven for nature – there has been a lot of media coverage recently about the dwindling numbers of insects due to the destruction of their natural habitats as well as an over use of pesticides. Planting flowers to attract pollinators, trees & shrubs to create shelter and leaving an area of your garden “wild” will make a difference. Children especially will love this, keep a log of insects and birds that set up home in your garden. You might not think that you alone will have an impact but I’m sure you’ve heard that well known saying about plastic straws.

How to create your woodland garden

Step 1. Know your area

Visit wooded areas in your neighbourhood to see what plants and trees thrive. This will give you a good indication of the soil type in your area and which plants will do well in your garden woodland.

Step 2. Add Layers

Set out the area. Decide whether you already have an existing area of trees that could become your woodland area or, if you are starting your woodland from scratch, plant 3 – 4 trees close together to create a canopy. Underneath these plant deciduous shrubs, then for the last layer plant herbaceous ground cover to attract pollinators such as butterflies. On the edge of the woodland you can use sun loving plants to add colour and attract pollinators.

Create a winding path leading down to your woodland area with hard stones or bark. Make sure you have set out a seating area so you can enjoy your magical woodland.

Step 3. Choose your plants

Make a list of the plants you want to use – if you need help with this, we offer a planting consultancy service where we can help you choose the right plants for your project.
If you know what you want, then pop down to our nursery where we can help you select the plants and trees.  We also offer a delivery and planting service <find out more>

Plants to use

Small Shrubs and Trees

• Azalea
• Birch
• Holly
• Hydrangea
• Japanese maple
• Rhododendron
• Magnolia
• Ferns
• Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)

Ground Cover Plant

• Ajuga
• Liriope
• Vinca (Periwinkle)

If you don’t know where to start to get that Chelsea inspired garden, let one of our designers assist you. Our At Home Advice and Consultancy Service will start transforming your garden in no time.

You may also like

• Design of Duchess’ Chelsea garden revealed – click here
• Create an Eco and Wildlife Friendly garden – click here

.