Having a small yard area does not prevent you from having a beautiful space that you will enjoy. It does, however, require planning and a bit more ingenuity than the average garden. There are a number of options for small spaces that will help you use the size and shape as an advantage. The trick is to work with the space that you have.
The first consideration in landscaping a small space is the shape and size. Many small yard areas are made up of straight lines that highlight the negative features of the space. Consider using curving lines that will give a sense of flow and movement to the space. You can integrate curves into your garden by creating a brick or gravel walkway that curves through the space. You can also incorporate curving lines when you form your garden beds.
Another way of making the most of a small space in the planning stages is to consider that you are dividing the space into different compartments. By creating raised beds on different levels, you can give a feeling of depth and space in a previously cramped area.
It is a good idea at this point to start mapping out your space using grid paper. Be sure to include features like trees and make space for patio furniture if you will be using it. As you work through your planning, add to your map. This simple step can save you from making costly mistakes.
Once you have a general idea of what your space is going to be laid out like, you can start thinking about what is going to go into it. For a small space, having a theme is very important. Especially if you are using raised beds, you can have more than one theme, just make sure to consider how they will relate to one another.
In selecting a theme, consider if you are looking for a romantic classic garden or a more modern outdoor space. There are a number of possibilities. You may want to focus on a specific element, and use the rest of the space to highlight that. Oftentimes, a feature can help you determine what your entire space will look like. For example, investigate a wood barrel fountain like those seen in crafty cottages where theme is called for.
The plants you will use need to be carefully selected so that they will grow properly with limited room and be suited the light exposure and drainage of your space. Also, remember that the larger your elements, the smaller your space will appear. Limit yourself to one small tree to provide shade, or go without a tree entirely. If you do have a tree, make sure it not one that drops a lot of twigs or seeds. Otherwise, you could find yourself saddled with daily yard cleaning.
A good technique to use in a limited space is to choose plants that will look good year round and provide interesting groundcover. Avoid any plants that tend to "take over." In a small space, these can end up becoming the entire garden.
There are a number of tricks that professional landscapers use to create the illusion of more room. These are not difficult to emulate. You don't need to use all of these ideas, either. One or two tricks of illusion will dramatically affect the appearance of your small space.
Remember to utilize walls and fences with climbing vines and trellises. These are especially effective in a corner where they can soften hard right angles. Any element that works with the walls or fence around your space is a great way to make the space appear larger than it is. Mirrors are often used indoors to create an illusion of space and mirrors can be used outdoors as well.
Container plants can be a beautiful addition to your small space. The planters act as a unique decorative element and whatever you grow in them will appear different than it would if planted in the soil. Planters come in a wide range of styles that can suit any garden theme. Have a look at garden planters ranging from classical motifs to simple and modern art.
In addition to plant life, your small space can be enhanced with a water feature. Pools and running water of any kind will give a feeling of depth. Running water will bring movement and energy into the garden, in addition to its peaceful relaxing sound. If space is running tight, have a look at some of the wall fountains. These require only a minimum of space, but will give you all of the benefits of a free-standing fountain.
A small space can be more difficult to design than a large one. However, with a bit of creativity and time, you can transform a cramped yard into an outdoor retreat.
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