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How to Makeover Your B&B Garden on a Budget

Alice | May 11, 2012 | Comments (0)

If your outside space is looking a little tired, follow these budget garden makeover tips to get your B&B garden fabulous for guests this summer without breaking the bank.

1. Plan, plan, plan

Researching different plants and where to buy quality specimens can make a huge difference to your budget. Don’t start purchasing until you have the plans all worked out.

2. Learn about your garden

Find out about the soil type of your garden and which native plants grow in the area. Not only will they be easier to maintain if they suit the environment, but native species are usually cheaper than imported plants and flowers.

3. Go for cover

Bright blooms might like good, but ground covering shrubs and foliage plants are more cost effective for the space.

4. Start young

Seeds and seedlings are much cheaper than established plants which the nurseries have invested time and money growing. Perennials and succulents are also the most budget friendly plants as they’ll last more than one season and you can lift, divide and re-plant across the garden next year.

5. Stay local

Shop at small, local garden centres instead of large chains. The prices will be more competitive, whilst the stock is also generally fresher. If you’re buying in bulk, you can also try to negotiate on the total cost.

Makeover A: Lush but Low Care

From Better Homes and Gardens

Plants used: daffodils, switchgrass, blue caryopteris, blue fescue, purple-leaf Joe Pye

Why it works: Simple but colourful, the garden looks well thought out and cared for. The tough plants, however, are low maintenance and don’t take up a lot of time, making it an ideal solution for busy B&B owners.

The plants will also be fairly hardy and less likely to need replacing – a helping hand for your budget.

Makeover B: Salvaged Space

Why it works: Instead of splashing out on expensive paving from the garden centre, this patio has been made from salvaged slate tiles. You can’t tell the difference at a glance, and it’s a great way to save money. Salvaged bricks, stone and concrete could also be used.

This particular yard is also given personality with more garage-sale and salvaged finds, such as old bowling balls, which add style on a budget.

Makeover C: Cool Patio

Why it works: Cover an old or bland patio space with bold colours to catch the eye and create an inviting space without ripping up the cement and starting again. Adding an outdoor tug adds texture and colour without costing the earth – try heading to a carpet store for end of the line bargains.

Container gardens at the edge of the patio are also much cheaper and easier than adding a big structure like an arbor or trellis. Tall containers can create separate spaces for a feeling of intimacy and privacy.

Images from Better Homes and Gardens