Design a Dreamy Small Garden Without Going Over Budget (2024)

FAQs

How do I make my garden nice on a budget? ›

There are two basic rules when arranging plants in the beds: 1) space the individual plants so that they touch each other when they reach their mature size, and 2) overlap the masses of plants and connect them so that they flow without space between them. Avoid gaps or large open areas between masses.

As a general rule, put tall veggies toward the back of the bed, mid-sized ones in the middle, and smaller plants in the front or as a border. Consider adding pollinator plants to attract beneficial insects that can not only help you get a better harvest, but will also prey on garden pests.

The other rule of thumb when using this layout plan is to organize your spacing so that your tallest growing vegetables are planted on the north side of your rows. Follow them with medium height vegetables, and then plant your shortest crop on the south side of the rows.

Growing a garden has the potential to reduce the amount of money spent on groceries. But this “potential” depends on the costs involved in growing the crops, types, and amounts of vegetables grown, yields that are derived from the garden, and other factors.

Small Garden Landscape Design

Avoid rigid straight lines and formal hedges. Try and add contrasting clumps of foliage to create interest and excitement to the planting design. Water is often used in an small garden design, a simple pond or water feature can transform a garden space.

Include vining plants like morning glory, sweet peas or honeysuckle to climb over a trellis or fence. Hosta and ferns are ideal for shady corners and create a feeling of peace and romance. Color: Don't hold back when it comes to color in your magic garden.

How many shrubs should you plant together? ›

The ideal number for groupings is always an odd number – 3, 5, 7, or even more. This allows you to space them more naturally. Remember too that a group should look like a unit, so space the plants a distance about 65% of their final width, so they grow together a little and make a solid mass.

In general, plants in borders are arranged with tall plants (taller than 2 to 3 feet) placed in the back, mid-size plants (10 inches to 2 to 3 feet tall) in the middle, and short plants (less than 10 inches) in the front of the bed. It is best to use groupings or drifts of plants for a natural feel.

Design in Rows

Additionally, arrange the plants in such a way that the tallest ones are at the north end of the row, followed by medium-height veggies, and finally, the shortest ones at the south end. This arrangement maximizes sunlight exposure for all the plants.

Plant colorful sections of flowers, vegetables, fruits, and herbs next to one another to achieve a truly dramatic display. Plant snug beds. Rather than planting everything in straight rows separated by expanses of soil, consider creating tight planting patterns that will provide an expanse of attractive edibles.