Finally, we have moved in to our new house.
Needless to say, most of the last few days have been spent unpacking. Inevitably, first out were the Christmas decorations (most important in March), while it took 24 hours to find the feet for the sofa so we could finally sit down and relax!
There hasn't been much time to think about the garden, except to admire the blossom and appreciate the view from our French windows. Unlike in our previous house, it's lovely to be able to see the garden from the living room.
The main thing I have noticed is the number of mature trees in the neighbouring gardens - and the cockerel living somewhere nearby who keeps crowing. Not exactly what I had in mind when moving to the city!
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Choosing a Style for my Garden
The first task I've set myself - before I even start putting plans on paper - is to decide on an overall style of garden.
Now, I've always rather fancied having a Japanese style garden. Serene water features, oriental statues, bonsai and perfectly pruned maples.
But somehow it just doesn't seem right for a suburban back garden in Manchester. And I suspect rather high maintenance, not to mention cost.
So I've had to look for rather more practical options.
I'm not really a country cottage person - although I do love climbing roses.
At the other extreme, an ultra contemporary design with lots of hard landscaping seems a little cold and unnatural. Not to mention straining the budget to bursting.
A wildlife garden has it's appeal - and I certainly want to include some wildlife friendly plants and features - but many of the examples I've seen do tend to be, how can I put this, a little scruffy at times. Wonderful in summer but less attractive in winter.
So what I've decided is to go for a style I'm going to call "Urban Oasis". Lush with touches that reflect its city location (not exactly sure what yet).
I'm using Pinterest to collect some ideas. If you haven't discovered this yet, I'd recommend it, although it can be very addictive. If you'd like to follow my garden board, click below or the box in the sidebar - I'd love to follow your garden boards too.
Now, I've always rather fancied having a Japanese style garden. Serene water features, oriental statues, bonsai and perfectly pruned maples.
So I've had to look for rather more practical options.
I'm not really a country cottage person - although I do love climbing roses.
At the other extreme, an ultra contemporary design with lots of hard landscaping seems a little cold and unnatural. Not to mention straining the budget to bursting.
A wildlife garden has it's appeal - and I certainly want to include some wildlife friendly plants and features - but many of the examples I've seen do tend to be, how can I put this, a little scruffy at times. Wonderful in summer but less attractive in winter.
So what I've decided is to go for a style I'm going to call "Urban Oasis". Lush with touches that reflect its city location (not exactly sure what yet).
I'm using Pinterest to collect some ideas. If you haven't discovered this yet, I'd recommend it, although it can be very addictive. If you'd like to follow my garden board, click below or the box in the sidebar - I'd love to follow your garden boards too.
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