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Getting your garden ready for summer

Summer Garden In Full Bloom

As spring winds down and the days grow warmer, it's time to gear up for summer in the UK. With the season bringing sunny days and even occasional heatwaves, preparing your garden for summer becomes worth it when you have a lovely space to relax, entertain or exercise. 

In summer, the long daylight hours allow you to garden at your preferred time, early in the morning or late in the evening. Choose a time that lets you focus on the task at hand but make sure you stay hydrated and use safety precautions. 

Really feeling the heat? Check out our tips to keep your home cool during summer and tips to keep kids cool in hot weather.

Whether you own or rent your property, share your garden with neighbours, or have a small “yard-en”, balcony or huge garden, here are a few versatile tips on how you can get your outdoor space ready for summer.

Jump to:
Clear debris away from your outdoor space
Pressure wash your garden flags and furniture
Spruce up your garden fence in time for summer
Accessorise your outdoor area this summer

Clear debris away from your outdoor space

The first step to preparing your garden for summer is to clear away all of the remnants of the past months. Brush away any fallen leaves and branches and remove old plant pots or worn-out solar-powered lights. Make sure to dispose of everything properly according to your property management company or local council's guidelines. You may have already followed our top tips for spring gardening success, in which case this task may be slightly easier.

Though it might feel like a tedious chore in some spaces, clearing the area is so necessary. It not only gives you a clean slate for further improvements but also helps prevent weeds and pests. And if you've spotted any unwanted creepy crawlies recently, we’ve got plenty of pest prevention tips for your home and a guide on how to get rid of ants in the house quickly.

Pressure wash your patio and furniture

Power Washing Dirt From Patio Flags

For those seeking to add an extra touch of sparkle to their outdoor spaces, pressure washing could be the answer.

Using a pressure washer, you can effortlessly remove dirt, grime, lichen and moss from patios, paving, sturdy garden furniture, decking, and pathways to restore them and leave them gleaming; perfect for summer get-togethers.

Although pressure washing can make a massive difference to your garden, be sure to use the correct settings for your surfaces, follow safety instructions and use caution to avoid damaging delicate surfaces and surrounding plants.

If you don’t have your own pressure washer, you might be able borrow one from a neighbour or rent one from your local DIY shop at a reasonable price. But remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe use. We’ve got a detailed checklist of home DIY tool kit essentials for renters.

Alternatively, if you’re unsure about using pressure on the surfaces you're cleaning, you can usually achieve a sparkling finish with a hard-bristled brush and warm soapy water. Though it may take more effort and time, the results can be equally satisfying.

Spruce up your garden fence in time for summer

Bad weather months can be tough on your garden fence and wooden shed, leaving them in need of some extra attention before summer arrives. 
Spruce up your fence or shed with a fresh coat of colour and a health-boosting treatment. A good quality timber preservative treatment can be found at most DIY shops and is ideal for keeping decking, fencing, and structures protected against the elements, offering essential protection against the summer sun and rain showers. 

If you’re renting, be sure to check with your property management company or landlord for permission to use coloured products, but there are also clear wood preservatives and treatment options.

Painting Fences

Accessorise your outdoor area this summer

Adding accessories to your outdoor space is a fun way to prepare your garden for summer, especially for renters or those with smaller areas like a balcony or yard and can be easily done on a budget.

  • Flowers and herbs: Planters filled with vibrant flowers and useful herbs are not only pretty to look at but also provide fresh ingredients for your recipes all summer long. Adding flowers and herbs to window planters provides a good solution if you don’t have much space.
  • Cosy reading or drinking areas: Set up a comfortable spot for reading, soaking up the sun or enjoying a drink. This will entice you to spend more time outdoors.
  • Outdoor mirrors: An outdoor mirror can make your garden appear bigger and brighter while transforming a dull wall into a focal point.
  • Outdoor rugs: Extend the comfort of your home into your garden with weather-proof outdoor rugs, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
  • Solar-powered lights: Hang or stake solar-powered lights around your garden to create a charming ambience on summer evenings.
  • Candles: Adding candles not only makes it a warm and inviting space but can also help keep insects at bay. Citronella candles are particularly recommended as they can repel mosquitoes and other pests, allowing you to enjoy your garden in peace. If you’re going to be lighting candles, a firepit or a barbeque, please exercise caution and check out our summer fire safety guide.

By choosing some bright, affordable accessories, you can add personal touches to your garden and create an inviting space for relaxing and hosting with ease and without breaking the bank. Why not show off your new space and invite a neighbour round for a cuppa?

Window Box With Flowers