Looking After Paving and Decking Features
Just like the inside of a property, a garden can soon lose its good looks if it’s not properly cared for. Here are some tips on how to maintain your garden to keep it looking it’s best.
How to maintain hard landscaping features
Hard landscaping features such as paths, patios and driveways are relatively easy to maintain, provided they’ve been properly installed in the first place. Sweeping and soft washing will keep stone surfaces looking vibrant. However, please avoid using a pressure washer - it’s too harsh and can damage the stone and the grout.
Timber Structures and Decking
Composite fencing and composite decking are great landscaping materials for a low maintenance garden. They don’t rot, they don’t fade and they don’t split. All they need is an occasional wash with mild detergent diluted in water.
Some natural timber structures are fairly self-reliant too. However, some fencing, decking and wooden furniture may need oiling every couple of years.
Maintaining plant Beds and Borders
General care for beds and borders includes feeding, weeding, mulching, deadheading, pruning, watering, and occasionally refreshing the planting. If you have managed to stick to the “right plant, right place” rule, beds and borders will be relatively easy to care for. But if you’re not confident or you feel overwhelmed by the task, it’s worth investing in the services of a professional gardener.
Need help maintaining your garden?
Maintaining your garden to the level where you can feel proud of it involves quite a few tasks. Depending on the design of your garden, the materials used and its age, the workload will vary. But if you struggle with any aspect of garden maintenance, help is always at hand.
Choosing a reputable, trustworthy professional gardener can be tricky, however, choosing an APL accredited gardener ensures you are guaranteed a high standard of service. APL members must provide proof that they are fully insured and are carefully inspected to ensure they have the correct knowledge and experience to maintain your garden to the highest standards.