Our son turns sixteen in a month or so time and he wants a party. Now, there is no way we are letting twenty odd sixteen year olds rampage through our house, so the alternative is locking them all out in the garden (and garden cabin!) We’re praying for decent weather for them, but this has made me realise that we need to give our patio and garden a bit of a spruce up – not only to meet the demands of our son, because let’s face it how embarrassing is it to have algae on the decking? But also with a view to being able to enjoy being outside with better weather coming our way. With this in mind, it’s the perfect time to turn your attention to your outdoor space too. Whether you have a sprawling garden, a cosy patio, or a small balcony, preparing for spring now means you’ll be ready to make the most of every sunny moment that comes your way.
In the UK, where weather can be unpredictable, a little bit of early planning and effort can transform your garden into a welcoming space for relaxing, entertaining, and enjoying the season ahead. Here’s a practical guide to get your outdoor space spring-ready — without feeling overwhelmed.
1. Start with a Good Tidy-Up
After a long winter, even the best-kept gardens need a bit of TLC. Begin by giving everything a thorough clean:
- Sweep patios, decking, and paths to remove leaves, dirt, and moss. A stiff brush often does the trick, but for stubborn grime, a pressure washer can bring surfaces back to life.
- Clear out any dead plants or weeds from flowerbeds, borders, and pots. Prune back dead branches and give hedges a gentle trim to tidy them up.
- Check for damage caused by frost or storms — whether it’s broken pots, loose fence panels, or cracked paving stones — and make a list of what needs repairing.
A clean and tidy base is the foundation of a great outdoor space, and even small efforts here will make a big visual impact.
2. Refresh Garden Furniture
Your outdoor furniture may be looking a little worse for wear after months of rain and cold. Now is the time to get it ready for use:
- Wash down tables, chairs, and benches with warm soapy water. If you have wooden furniture, consider sanding it lightly and applying a fresh coat of outdoor paint or wood preservative to protect it through spring and summer. If you need to replace furniture then IKEA have a great range of versatile furniture and accessories.
- Check cushions and covers — if they’ve been stored away, give them a freshen up; if they’ve been left out, see if a wash will revive them, or consider investing in new ones for a fresh look.
- Think about layout — reposition furniture to make the most of sunlight or create a cosy corner for evening gatherings.
3. Prep Your Plants and Pots
Spring is the season for new life, so give your plants and garden beds a helping hand:
- Top up soil and compost in beds and containers to give plants the nutrients they need to thrive.
- Divide and replant perennials that may have outgrown their space — this is a great way to fill empty spots without spending a fortune.
- Start planting spring flowers like pansies, primroses, and violas to add instant colour. Think about bulbs like daffodils and tulips for long-lasting displays.
- Grow-your-own enthusiasts can start preparing vegetable patches or containers for herbs and salads — lettuce, radishes, and spinach are great for early crops.
4. Bring in Some Lighting
Evenings can still be chilly, but adding outdoor lighting will let you enjoy your garden as the sun sets. Think about:
- Solar-powered lights — eco-friendly and easy to install along paths, borders, or in pots.
- String lights or festoon bulbs to create a magical atmosphere, perfect for alfresco dinners or evening drinks.
- Lanterns and candles for a cosy, flickering glow — just remember to be safe if using open flames.
Lighting adds warmth and charm to any outdoor space and makes it feel like an extension of your home.
5. Add Comfort and Style with Accessories
To really make your outdoor space inviting, think about adding accessories that bring a touch of indoor comfort outside:
- Outdoor rugs can define seating areas and add colour and texture.
- Cushions and throws make garden chairs and benches much more comfortable — perfect for spring days that aren’t quite summer-warm.
- Planters and pots in different shapes and colours can bring a cohesive look to patios and balconies.
Small changes here can give your garden a whole new feel, and accessories are easy to switch out as the seasons change.
6. Create Zones for Different Activities
No matter the size of your outdoor space, zoning can make it feel larger and more functional. Think about how you’ll use the space:
- Dining area with a table and chairs for family meals.
- Relaxation zone with a bench, hammock, or comfy chairs for reading and unwinding.
- Play space for children, whether that’s room for outdoor toys or a little patch of lawn.
- Planting area for keen gardeners to potter about.
Having distinct areas makes even small gardens feel like multi-functional spaces and encourages you to spend more time outside.
7. Don’t Forget Wildlife
Spring is also the season when wildlife reawakens, so consider making your garden friendly to birds, bees, and other creatures:
- Bird feeders and baths to attract feathered friends.
- Bug hotels and bee-friendly plants like lavender and foxgloves to encourage pollinators.
- Small water features — even a bowl of water — to help wildlife thrive.
A garden full of life is a joy to watch and helps local biodiversity too.
Final Thoughts
Getting your outdoor space ready for spring doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. With a little effort now, you can create a beautiful, functional space that will serve you right through to autumn. So dust off those garden chairs, dig out the trowel, and get ready to enjoy sunny days ahead — your spring-ready outdoor oasis awaits! If you need help with any aspect of your home design then I’d love to hear from you! Get in touch.