**This is a collaborative post
We’re relying on our gardens more and more. And with a family, the garden needs to perform more than one function. How do you make the most of an uninspiring square patch? What do you need to make a family-friendly, multi-use garden?
Here are a few pointers to help you plan your family garden.
A place to sit and relax
Right, first things first, you absolutely need a place where you can relax with a cuppa whilst the kids play outside. That two minutes to put your feet up doesn’t have to be stuck inside on the sofa. Therefore, a patio is a great addition to make.
Don’t worry, patio laying isn’t a specialist job, and can be done a bit of planning and a basic set of tools. Remember, you don’t have to make the patio square. In fact, adding a bit of shape to it will create a more interesting and appealing space.
Add some seats and perhaps a few throws and outdoor cushions for comfort, and you’re ready for that cuppa.
Shaping the lawn
An integral piece of any family garden is the lawn. A space for playing, running around and relaxing, as well as providing a large pleasant looking green area to look at. This is what a family garden is all about.
Again, this doesn’t have to be square. Adding a bit of shape can help create a sense of depth to your garden. For example, a circular lawn not only looks great, but makes a small garden feel bigger.
Beds and borders
Whether going for a traditional flower-filled border or raised beds, breaking up the areas of the garden with planting will enhance the space.
Raised beds are great for providing some height and interest to a garden. You can also create zoned planting areas with beds for flowers, herbs, and shrubs.
Create a wildlife zone
Finally, the addition of a wildlife area is a not only a great educational tool but something that the whole family can get involved with. There are various ways to attract bugs, birds, bees, and small mammals.
Let a patch grow wild with nettles, plant bee-friendly flowers, put up a bird box, make a bug hotel or construct a log pile. Perhaps leave a gap in a fence or under a gate just big enough for hedgehogs to get through. Finally, put up an outdoor blackboard so the children can use it to draw and record what they find there each week.
