New build properties often come with decently-sized gardens, giving you plenty of opportunity to create a beautiful outdoor space to enjoy. However, it’s important that you consider your lifestyle and what you want from your garden before making design plans for your outdoor space. For those of us wanting to enjoy their garden without the hard graft, a low-maintenance garden is the perfect solution. In this article, we’ll learn more about creating a low-maintenance garden for your new build.
Plan with Purpose
Start by thinking about how you want to use your garden. Do you want a haven for wildlife, a place for entertaining, or a space to grow a few herbs or vegetables? Once your priorities are clear, you can design a layout that supports your needs without being overly complex.
Raised plant beds, seating areas, and wide, easy-to-navigate paths are ideal if you’re looking for ease of access. They reduce bending and provide comfortable access to plants and features. Keep the layout simple and flowing to make gardening a pleasure rather than a chore.
Choose Low-Maintenance Plants
Selecting the right plants is key to keeping your garden easy to manage. Opt for hardy, drought-tolerant varieties that thrive in your local climate. Lavender, hebe, sedum, and ornamental grasses are all attractive options that require little attention once established.
Evergreens add structure and interest all year round and don’t need frequent pruning. For seasonal colour, consider planting perennials like salvia, geraniums, and daylilies, which come back year after year with minimal effort.
Minimise Lawn Space
Traditional lawns demand regular mowing, feeding, and weeding. To reduce this burden, consider alternatives such as artificial turf, gravel, or paving stones interspersed with ground cover plants. If you prefer a natural lawn, choose slow-growing grass varieties and keep it small.
Another popular option is to replace lawn areas with mulched garden beds, which suppress weeds, retain moisture, and look tidy all year round.
Invest in Easy Irrigation
Watering can be one of the most time-consuming garden tasks, especially during the warmer months. Installing a simple drip irrigation system or soaker hoses ensures your plants get the water they need without daily attention.
Rainwater collection systems are also a great eco-friendly addition, allowing you to water your garden naturally while saving on your water bill.
Keep It Accessible and Safe
A low-maintenance garden should also be safe and accessible to make upkeep straightforward. Use non-slip surfaces for pathways and patios, and avoid steps where possible. Raised planters and vertical gardens reduce the need for bending, making it easier to plant, prune, or harvest.
Incorporate comfortable seating and shaded areas so you can enjoy the space throughout the day. A pergola, gazebo, or even a large umbrella can provide shelter without needing much upkeep.
Make Your Outdoor Space Beautiful, Practical and Easy to Maintain
Creating a low-maintenance new build garden doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty or variety. With smart planning, the right plant choices, and a few helpful features, you can design a space that’s easy to manage and lovely to live in. Whether you're retiring, downsizing, or simply seeking more time to relax and less time weeding, a thoughtfully designed low-maintenance garden can bring daily joy with very little effort.
If you’re looking for your forever home with a garden space that’s easy to maintain, then our team at Beech Grove Homes is here to help with your search. Please take a look at our developments today, or get in touch with us if you have any questions.