Household recycling has become part of our daily routine, sorting and separating glass, plastics, paper and waste into different crates and bins. But while the sorting part is pretty simple, the problem of where to store everything before rubbish collection day rolls around can be a challenge.

Living in a terraced house with no side access to the back garden means that everything has to be stored in our tiny front garden. And with a large wheelie bin and various crates to make room for because of the latest recycling rules, there’s very little space to hide any of it… and it pains me every time I step outside the front door.

But determined not to let the wheelie bin completely dominate the space, I’ve come up with an easy cover-up that hasn’t cost me a fortune, together with some clever buys and easy garden ideas that will also help tackle the problem, including stylish wheelie bin storage ideas.

1. Hiding my bins with strategically-placed planters

With one large, tall wheelie bin and a couple of recycling crates that need to be stored in our small front garden, it has meant that they are always on show to passersby…which I hate (swipe to see the problem).

Tucking them up against the ivy-covered side fence makes the bin and crates feel a bit less visible from the road, and by gradually training the ivy along the front wall, it has created a corner of greenery that I can then tuck the wheelie bin into. Then, by placing a large planter with taller greenery just in front, the wheelie bin definitely feels a bit less ‘on show’.

To tackle the problem of the recycling crates, I then positioned a couple of lower planters around them, with colourful bedding plants and a few tall alliums so that the eyes are drawn to these (rather than the crates at the back). And covering the crates with wooden lids also helps to camouflage them a bit.

And lastly, because the wheelie bin and crates need to be pulled out and left kerbside on collection day, I’ve also gone for a lightweight wheeled planter (the circular one) that I can roll out of the way as needed.

A brilliant budget garden idea, for this I used a couple of mini castors, like these small fixed castors, £6.99 for 4, Amazon, and screwed them into the base of a lightweight plastic planter, like this Muddy Hands galvanised planter, £22.99, Amazon. Alternatively, you could always buy a planter on wheels, or a pot stand on wheels, £8.40, Dunelm, to rest an existing planter on.

2. Construct a cover-up

Alternatively, make use of your DIY skills and put together a custom-built cover-up or garden storage cupboard that can house the wheelie bin and recycling boxes so they’re hidden away from sight.

If you’re fairly DIY savvy, then constructing a simple timber framework shouldn’t be too tricky; it’s just a matter of adding a hinged door and cladding the exterior with wooden slats, panelling or shiplap cladding, from £11.97, B&Q. Choose a colour that complements your front garden and finish with garden paint or stain.

Alternatively, flat-pack bin stores are another easy option that is fairly straightforward to put together and are available in different sizes and configurations to suit the type and size of bins and boxes to be stored.

Shop for bin stores

3. Disguise with a green roof

Whether you’ve constructed your own bin store or gone for a purpose-built design, adding a green roof on top is an aesthetic upgrade that will make it more of a garden feature and help it blend more beautifully with the surroundings.

Adding a green roof involves creating a frame on top of your bin store and covering the surface with waterproof membrane, soil and gravel before planting up with low-maintenance plants like sedums, grasses and moss.

You can buy sedum matting to cut to size, like this fully-grown sedum carpet, £25.80, from Sedum Supply, or invest in a green roof kit, like this sedum flat roof kit, from £52.18 per sq m, Turf Online, which will provide all the essentials needed.

For a purpose-built bin store with a plantable top, try the double wheelie bin cover, £399.99, B&Q.

4. Create a mini wildlife garden

If you’re really keen to go green, then a wildlife-friendly garden idea like this open-sided bin store looks fabulous and is a great way of attracting pollinators to your front garden space. With a sturdy wood and metal frame, the BinDock Double, £850, from the Front Yard Company, has a lush green roof on top plus space underneath for two wheelie bins to be slotted in.

In addition to the green roof, the bin store also incorporates integral planters with wires on each side for growing climbing plants, as well as wooden bee nesting posts at each end that provide a place for bees to nest.

5. Conceal behind a screen

For a simple way of hiding your wheelie bin and recycling crates that involves minimal DIY, a simple trellis garden screen is an easy option worth considering. Depending on the size and shape of your front garden, you’ll need to buy a length of basic wooden trellis, like this pine trellis panel, from £37, B&Q, together with a couple of support posts to go at either end.

Keep the design basic, with a single trellis screen like this expanding trellis, £24.95 at Amazon, that spans the bin area, or construct a folding screen by adding hinges to two or more lengths of trellis, like these chrome hinges, £4.50 for two, Screwfix, which will give you more flexibility when positioning the screen around the bins.

Shop for garden screens

6. Camouflage with climbing greenery

Let nature lend a hand by training climbing foliage and flowers to create a colourful and fragrant cover-up for recycling bins and crates. If your front garden has an open picket-style fence or trellis screen, then climbing flowers and foliage like evergreen Star Jasmine, £19.95 for a 2L pot from QVC, make great natural camouflage that will detract from anything stored behind it.

Alternatively, growing a hedge in the front garden is another option that will provide more dense budget screening to help conceal a bin area. And by choosing a fast-growing hedge, you’ll ensure that you won’t have to wait too long for coverage.

Is your wheelie bin and recycling an eyesore? How do you tackle the problem... let us know.

When you're trying to sell your home, first impressions matter. Your front garden is one of the first things potential buyers see, so paying attention to the outside of your property can be just as important as updating the inside. In fact, experts say there are a number of front garden ideas that could add value to your home, while helping it stand out to buyers.

'Rather than focusing on major projects, concentrate on the details that create a positive arrival experience,' advises Nikki North, a property consultant at Redbrik Estate Agents. 'A sense of care and attention, and a frontage that feels inviting can often have a bigger impact than people realise.'

The good news is that many of the most effective ways for boosting kerb appeal can be affordable and easy to tackle. We asked estate agents to share the small front garden upgrades that can make the biggest difference when it comes to attracting buyers and maximising your home's value.

1. Refresh your front door

It's one of the most overlooked front garden upgrades, but painting your front door can instantly transform how the front of your home looks and feels.

'A clean, freshly painted front door can instantly make a property feel more welcoming and better cared for,' says Robin Edwards, a property buying agent at Curetons.

Nikki agrees. 'Refreshing your front door colour can instantly improve the appearance of a property,' she says. 'It's a relatively small investment, but it can help to create a much stronger overall impression.'

The smaller details around your entrance matter too. House numbers and letterboxes can look tired and worn over time, so updating them can give the front of your home a more polished look.

2. Tidy plants and borders

'Poor maintenance is one of the biggest issues for buyers, and an untidy front garden immediately creates the impression that the property may not have been cared for elsewhere,' warns Rob Twitchett, director of new homes at Beresfords.

You don't need to completely redesign your entire front garden to make it feel fresh - small tweaks can go a long way.

'Simple additions such as hanging baskets, planters and window boxes can transform the appearance of a home at relatively little cost,' adds Rob.

Making a strong first impression isn't necessarily about spending a lot of money; it's about creating a sense that the property has been looked after.

'A clear pathway to the front door, attractive planting, and a well-presented entrance can all help create that feeling,' says Nikki. 'I also think symmetry works surprisingly well, whether that's matching planters, balanced borders or a clearly framed front door.'

3. Hide bins and clutter from view

One thing that doesn't cost anything, but can be the difference between a good and bad first impression, is where you store your wheelie bins.

'A lack of thought around bin storage can quickly make a front garden look cluttered,' says Rob. 'There are now some excellent storage solutions available, from attractive timber enclosures to modern composite bin stores, which keep everything organised and out of sight.'

It's not just bins that can create the impression of clutter – recycling boxes, unused pots, children's toys and general clutter can quickly distract from the property itself.

'One of the biggest mistakes is treating the front garden as a storage space,' believes Nikki. 'Buyers want to appreciate the home at first glance, and anything that hides its best features can make it feel less appealing.'

4. Pressure wash your driveway and paths

Pressure washing a driveway can make a surprising difference to how the front of a property looks, and costs next to nothing if you already own a machine, or very little to hire one.

'Power washing driveways and paths can all be done relatively cheaply, but make a noticeable difference to first impressions,' says Robin.

Over time driveways gather moss, dirt and general grime that can make the entire front of the property feel uncared for. A thorough clean strips all that back and can dramatically improve the look of an ageing driveway.

5. Invest in outdoor lighting

One of the most commonly overlooked front garden upgrades that can add value to your home is garden lighting.

'Exterior lighting is often overlooked but can make a huge difference, particularly during darker months,' says Nikki. 'It's another relatively simple way to make the property look well cared for.'

Front porch lighting looks considered and inviting, whereas an unlit frontage can feel uninviting in the evenings.

Outdoor wall lights, such as wall-mounted lanterns, are a classic choice, while solar-powered path lights can be installed in minutes with no wiring required.

Shop front garden upgrades

What front garden upgrades should homeowners prioritise if they're trying to sell?

Nikki North, property consultant for Redbrik Estate Agents recommends asking yourself what draws your eye and what distracts from the home.

'I always advise homeowners to stand across the road and look at their property as if they're seeing it for the first time,' she says.

Before spending, prioritise cleanliness, maintenance and presentation, Robin Edwards, property buying agent suggests. 'A tidy, well-kept front garden that looks easy to maintain will appeal to far more buyers than an expensive redesign,' he says. 'The goal is to create a positive first impression that encourages buyers to step through the front door.'

First impressions count - get the basics right, and your front garden will do the selling before you've opened the front door.

Most family homes will have at least one car – often more – to find a space for. Because of this, we often see front gardens getting hard landscaped to maximise space, with a real focus on practical day-to-day use.

But what if I told you you don’t have to choose between a practical garden and one that can lift your spirits, benefit pollinators, and look beautiful too? There are plenty of easy ways to include low-maintenance plants for a driveway to really add an extra something.

Here are some simple front garden ideas to try, and some great ways to add kerb appeal to your home.

1. Make use of vertical space

Vertical growing is your friend in these, often minimal, spaces. If you can’t afford to give up ground space needed for vehicles, utilise areas where plants can climb, such as trellising against walls, fences, bike shelters or anything else you can think of!

Adding something like clematis, fragrant jasmine, or a beautiful climbing rose will not only give visual appeal, but will also help give beneficial pollinators a valuable food source in these spaces that are often lacking. You will also create a bit of a screen, giving your garden some privacy, too.

This gorgeous jasmine from Thompson & Morgan makes a dramatic addition to any space, and perfumes the air with its sweet fragrance. It also turns a deep bronze colour in autumn, giving you an attractive shrub with seasonally changing appeal.

2. Place pots

Could anything be more picturesque than a front door flanked by stunning, seasonal plants which add a pop of colour? Or even pots containing olive or bay trees, which can really add a sense of grandeur. It isn’t just the plants within the pots that look great, either – pots like these from John Lewis add real personality to any space.

One of the key benefits of using containers is that you can move them under cover or cover them easily in any inclement weather. It is also easy to change up your planting and colour palette based on the season; however, do remember that in warm, dry weather pots do dry out more quickly, so you will need to factor in regular watering and also feeding of some crops.

3. Make it low maintenance

As well as the practical element of a spot you can park your car, another appeal of hard landscaped spaces in the midst of busy lives is that they hardly take any upkeep. However, planting doesn’t need to be demanding.

There are plenty of ways you can add colour and interest to your space in a low-maintenance way. For example, if your driveway is gravel, rather than tarmac, rainwater can still drain off nicely, and there are certain plants that thrive in these conditions. Paving like this ecobase from B&Q makes it easy to create a sturdy but permeable drive. You may need to reach for the weeding tools every so often (though investing in a good weed-suppressing membrane helps!), but this is often the case once cracks appear in tarmac, or between bricks anyway.

Garden Organic’s Emma O’Neill adds, 'Instead of concrete, choose permeable paving that allows rainwater to drain, or paved tracks for cars, and plant underneath with creeping Jenny and ajuga.'

Shop these stylish front garden additions

4. Make the most of borders

You don’t need a lot of space to really add benefits. The smallest of borders around the edge of a front garden space can accommodate a range of fragrant herbs and pretty blooms at all different heights, depending on what you are looking for, to create a really striking display.

5. Add window boxes or hanging baskets

This may sound a little twee, but utilising these spaces is a fantastic idea if you are really strapped for room – and there’s no end to what you can grow in them. Edibles may not be your first choice if your front garden is directly by a busy road, but plants like strawberries, tumbling toms and trailing fuscias all add beauty to hanging baskets, while giving a little boost to your kitchen as well – talk about a multi-use space!

Tumbling toms like ‘Freefall Orange’ from Suttons are real eye-catchers. Garden writer and editor, Kim Stoddart, takes this idea a step further.

'I think growing as much of your own food at the moment is an incredibly good move, and a front garden provides a lovely opportunity to maximise growing space in an attractive and productive way. Low-maintenance perennial herbs are always lovely to work with and will reward you year after year.'

'Rosemary, sage and thyme work well with lavender for a Mediterranean-style look in beds or large pots. Otherwise, consider some Swiss chard (grow these multi-coloured 'Celebration' seeds from Thompson & Morgan for extra interest) mixed in with flowers or shrubs. Edimentals such as viola/pansy or borage, calendula, soft fruit bushes and roses all look delightful and provide a mix of edible delights.'

6. Consider the size of your car

Leigh Hunt, principal horticultural advisor at the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), explains, 'Many people think the answer to parking cars is wall-to-wall paving. However, the footprint of your parked cars is often much smaller than this, so reduce the size to just this area.'

'That will give you plenty of room to plant – it could be in the corners and down the side, but don't forget you can go up the walls with climbers and boundaries can be hedges rather than fences,' she adds.

'There are lots of hidden planting opportunities you can unlock. And the more plants you squeeze in, the more benefits you get – from pollution trapping and cooling hot summer air, to preventing localised flooding and supporting wildlife. Plants are urban superheroes.'

7. Think on top of the box!

Emma O’Neill explains why sometimes just thinking outside the box with structures you may already have in your front garden can pay dividends.

'Cover your bin store or bike shed with a sturdy green roof, slowing down the flow of water to help prevent flooding and attracting insect life.'

If you aren’t a big DIY-er, you can buy these online or in store – such as this bin storage with a green roof from B&Q. It looks so stylish you’d never believe there are bins in there!

As you can see, there are plenty of simple ways to add a little interest to any front garden space – whether you want to make it more aesthetically pleasing, attract a range of pollinators, improve drainage, or simply give the space a bit of an overhaul – after all, front gardens offer so much more than parking spaces!

After a long, wet winter, my garden definitely needed tending to, and after a lot of effort, meticulously weeding my garden borders by hand, I decided to bring out the big guns in the form of the Ryobi Cordless Handheld Cultivator, £144.95 at Amazon.

Our veg beds and front borders had become overgrown, weeds were popping up everywhere, and I knew I needed something to help me clear it all more efficiently without damaging existing plants and bulbs starting to bud and flower. I went on a bit of a mission to figure out how to get rid of weeds naturally without having to hunch over a flower bed for hours with a garden fork, or worse, resorting to chemicals that might damage my plants.

And when I discovered this Ryobi cordless cultivator, I knew it would help make light work of sorting those beds out, stat. Here's why it's a great buy and well worth the investment, if you, like me, are faced with out-of-control garden borders, beds and planters.

I've mainly been using the cordless cultivator to dig up weeds across our veg beds and front garden borders, as this is where it was most definitely needed, especially as I prep them for laying newspaper down as weed prevention and planting up weed-suppressing creeping phlox and other pretty new low-maintenance border plants and plant out the vegetables we'd sown in March.

Instead of pulling weeds one by one, I run the cultivator lightly over the surface and let its rotating tines do the work. It lifts and breaks up the roots, which makes it much easier to clear everything faster than I'd ever manage with a hand fork when I'm rushing about with a to-do list the length of my arm. However, on a few occasions, I have had to dig out a few really well-rooted stalwarts using my trusty RootSlayer, £49.50 at Amazon, which easily slides deep into the soil with its serrated edges.

The cultivator is also really handy because it's handheld, as you can get into more restrictive areas without the worry about pulling up existing plants' roots by mistake, which is something I thought I might struggle to avoid if I used a cultivator with a longer handle. That said, you will still have to get down on your knees with your garden kneeler to use it, which isn't great for the old back and knees.

And because it's so compact and lightweight, I've found myself using it in places I'd never attempt with a larger tool, including my raised vegetable beds, around existing plants where I don't want to disturb the roots too much, and in planters that just need a quick seasonal soil reset.

What I didn't expect was how much of a difference the soil itself looked afterwards. As the cultivator moves through, it not only removes weeds but also helps loosen and aerate the soil, which is key when you're about to plant anything new. This helps with improving drainage, airflow, and breaking up compacted soil, making it easier for new roots to establish.

In my veg beds, especially, it leaves an ideal crumbly texture that'll be just right for planting out seedlings when the time comes.

It feels much more precise than a traditional cultivator, too, almost like a powered hand tool. OK, so it's worth saying that it isn't designed for breaking brand new ground or tackling seriously overgrown areas. However, for regular maintenance, weeding, and soil prep, it's become a tool I actually reach for again and again, and so much more than I thought I would, if I'm honest.

And anything that helps me clear weeds from flower beds faster and gives my plants a better start earns pride of place in my gardening arsenal.

Shop my favourite weed-busting alternatives

If the Ryobi cultivator feels a little too pricey for your budget right now, here are a few other affordable, tried-and-tested weed-busters that have worked a treat at getting rid of the peskiest weeds.

This is one of those gardening tools that genuinely earns its keep, and it's taken a job I usually put off and made it quicker, easier and far less of a chore. If your garden is anything like mine after winter, with overgrown beds and weeds creeping in everywhere, the Ryobi cordless handheld cultivator is a simple upgrade that makes a noticeable difference.

It won't replace heavy-duty digging, but for everyday maintenance and getting your garden back into shape, it's a tool I'll keep on reaching for, and I guarantee you will too.

There's something about a beautifully planted front door that instantly sets the tone for your home. A few well-chosen pots can soften the doorway, add colour and texture and most importantly, create a warm, inviting welcome, especially when you're greeted with a waft of fresh fragrance that instantly lifts your mood.

As spring has officially begun, it's the perfect time to refresh your front porch with the best low-maintenance plants for pots. Whether you're looking for simple front porch ideas or want to incorporate fragrant shrubs, the right plants can transform even the most understated doorway into something that feels considered and full of life.

Better still, these fragrant plants for containers don't require constant attention to look their best. Many are drought-tolerant even in pots, thrive in containers, and need minimal pruning or upkeep, making them easy-care options for busy households. Alternatively, they'd also work really well as plants to make your patio smell nice.

We asked garden experts what their favourite go-tos are for a beautifully scented front door display.

1. Sarcococca (sweet box)

One of the best plants for adding fragrance in cooler months, sweet box produces a surprisingly strong, sweet, honey-like scent from its tiny winter flowers. Sarcococca is practically unkillable, and it's perfect for positioning right by the door as it thrives in shade or partial shade, is evergreen, and when little else is flowering in the depths of winter, it's a cheery addition.

Liam Clearly, gardening expert at Old Railway Line Garden Centre concurs that ' sweet box is a brilliant option, particularly for shaded doorways. It does not look showy, but the fragrance is surprisingly strong and appears in winter, which is when you need it most.'

Liam adds that sweet box is very easy to grow, needs very little pruning and only occasional watering once established.

Where to buy sarococca:

• Crocus: Try this pretty pure white Sarcococca confusa, from £9.99
• Thompson & Morgan: Or go for the dark pink Sarcococca hookeriana 'Winter Gem', from £12.99.

2. Lavender

Growing lavender in a pot is a classic choice for front doors thanks to its calming, recognisable scent and easy-going nature. I think it looks especially striking in symmetrical pots flanking an entrance and Liam agrees that 'it brings that clean, calming scent and has a neat look that works perfectly in pots by a doorway. It is especially effective used in pairs for a more balanced feel'.

Richard Barker, horticulture expert at LBS Horticulture, explains that 'lavender is drought-tolerant once established, and it can thrive in dry conditions. It is best to plant lavender in spring, and potted plants should be placed in a sunny spot where they will not be in the shade of overhanging trees.'

'If you are growing a hardy variety of lavender, this should be pruned after flowering in August or September, taking care not to cut into old wood. Half-hardy lavender should be pruned after its first flush of flowers, but no later than early September.'

Liam adds that 'it does not like sitting in wet soil. Water it lightly and trim after flowering to keep it compact.'

Where to buy lavender:

• Thompson & Morgan: Add colour with the hardy and vibrant Lavender 'BeeZee Dark Blue', £29.99.
• Crocus: Or go for this more unusual rose pink variety, Lavender angostifolia Rosea, from £6.39.

3. Star jasmine

For a more luxurious scent, star jasmine is hard to beat. Its delicate white flowers release a rich fragrance throughout summer, particularly in the evening.

'This is a great choice if you want something a little softer and more relaxed around the entrance,' suggests Liam. 'The small white flowers are highly fragrant, and you can train it around a doorway or up a support to frame the space.' I really like this star jasmine arch that our gardens editor recreated from her trip to Italy.

Gardening and Greenhouse Expert Lucie Bradley from Easy Garden Irrigation explains that 'Star Jasmine is a great woody evergreen ideal for growing in a container with an obelisk (this metal obelisk, £10.99 from Amazon, is a great budget option) to create instant impact and year-round interest by your front door.'

Shop supports for a star jasmine front door display

'Its glossy green foliage will quickly entwine around its support to provide a classic green structure in spring. By midsummer, this glossy green foliage forms the perfect backdrop to its star-shaped white flowers, which are intensely fragrant, with a sweet mix of jasmine, vanilla and orange and especially intense in warm summer weather, making them a joy when placed by the entrance to your home.'

Then by autumn, when the flowers have faded, Lucie says, 'the foliage changes from glossy green to rich shades of burgundy and bronze, becoming even redder in colder weather.'

Star jasmine is a low-maintenance plant that, as long as you place it in a large, heavy pot at least 35cm or more wide and deep (like this Verve terracotta effect pot, £18 from B&Q) and provide it with a trellis (like this wooden trellis fence panel, £20.99 from Amazon) to grow up, explains Lucie.

'Ensure there are drainage holes as star jasmine needs to be watered regularly, but doesn't want its roots to be waterlogged. Whilst watering during the summer, use a high-potash liquid feed (like Levington natural sulphate of potash, £8.89 from Amazon) once a month to encourage a flourish of fragrant flowers. A vigorous grower, it’s easy to train its stems around a trellis and only needs light pruning in the spring to keep it in shape,' adds Lucie.

Where to buy star jasmine:

• Thompson & Morgan: Cover your trellis or garden fence with this classic Trachelospermum jasminoides, from £12.99.
• Crocus: Or enjoy masses of fragrant yellow blooms with the Trachelospermum jasminoides Star of Toscana, from £23.99.

4. Gardenia

'Gardenia has an incredibly strong scent,' explains Liam. It has an almost tropical fragrance, and its creamy blooms and glossy leaves will look really polished on your front doorstep or even as a gorgeous-smelling plant for your patio.

Liam says to 'place it somewhere sheltered, like a covered front porch with good light but not harsh direct sun. Keep the soil consistently moist and use an acidic compost. Protect it from cold conditions.

Gardenias don't grow wildly or out of control, so minimal pruning is needed, and they keep a neat, tidy shape.

Where to buy gardenia:

• J. Parker's: Gardenia 'Kleims Hardy', from £16.99, is a pretty, compact variety suitable for pots and containers.
• Thompson & Morgan: Gardenia 'Sweetheart', from £14.99, has the most incredible fragrance and like most gardenias, it will reward you with blooms until autumn.

5. Rosemary

For a fresher, more herbal scent, rosemary is a brilliant low-maintenance option. 'It's a practical and attractive choice,' adds Liam. 'As you walk past it, it releases a lovely aromatic scent, and it is useful in the kitchen too. It works well in pots and keeps its shape nicely.'

It's a lovely mix to include because it's extremely drought-tolerant, it's architectural, evergreen and is also handy to have as it doubles as an easy herb to grow.

Liam says to 'give rosemary plenty of sun and good drainage. It does not need much water once established. Trim lightly to keep it bushy.'

Where to buy rosemary:

• Crocus: Add a dazzling pink colour with this Salvia rosmarinus 'Roman Beauty', from £19.99.
• Suttons: Or try the silvery blue Rosemary 'Whitewater Silver', £34.99 for a three-litre pot.

6. Daphne

'Daphne is a great plant for placing by a door, as they produce fragrant flowers that smell similar to jasmine, explains Richard. Its clusters of flowers produce rich, citrusy perfume in late winter and early spring.

'Smaller species of daphne are best suited to growing in containers, but they will need plenty of drainage and a pot that is deep enough to accommodate their roots. Although they can be initially hard to grow, daphne will flower reliably once they are established and are low-maintenance.

'They require little pruning, and if you are cutting flowers to bring indoors, this is usually enough. They should be watered regularly, but they do not like having damp roots.'

Where to buy daphne:

• QVC: Full of colour and fragrance, try the super-pretty Daphne 'Perfume Princess', £19.92.
• Thompson & Morgan: Enjoy the scent of this pretty Daphne fragrance duo, £39.99.

7. Mexican orange blossom

Choisya or Mexican orange blossom is a fantastic all-rounder, offering fragrant flowers and aromatic foliage. I have one in my front garden borders and its flowers are not just beautiful to look at, but produce a gorgeous perfume.

'A perfect standalone, hardy, evergreen shrub Choisya combines glossy green aromatic foliage and intensely fragrant star-shaped blooms in late spring from April through to June and again in late summer, early autumn from August through to October,' explains Lucie.

'Whilst most varieties of choisya have glossy green foliage all year round, for partial shade you might prefer to brighten the space by selecting either ‘Sundance’, from £24.99 at Thompson & Morgan or ‘Goldfingers’, from £24.99 at Thompson & Morgan, which have striking golden yellow foliage.

Generally low-maintenance hardy plants, simply select a variety to suit the space you have available, says Lucie, such as ‘White Dazzler’, from £11.99 at Thompson & Morgan, which will grow up to one metre in height and spread or a more petite choice would be ‘Little Bee’, from £13.99 at Thompson & Morgan, which normally reaches 50 to 60cm wide and tall. Whilst naturally slow growing and forming a mounded shape, simple light pruning in late spring once it has finished flowering will help to keep it compact, bushy and healthy.

She adds that it 'will thrive when grown in large terracotta or ceramic pots filled with free-draining, multipurpose compost and raised up on pot feet to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly and regularly during the summer months, watering at soil level so that it reaches the roots and avoids the foliage. Avoid overwatering by allowing the top couple of centimetres of compost to dry out before watering again.'

Where to buy choisya:

• Dobies: For a flush of pink flowers, try the Choisya ternata 'Apple Blossom', from £29.99.
• Gardeners Dream: Or go for a 'White Dazzler' patio tree flanked on either side of your front door, £39.99 for a three-litre pot.

A final consideration is positioning, Liam explains. 'Fragrance carries best in a sheltered spot, so placing pots close to the door or near a wall will help hold the scent. Good drainage is essential for all of these plants, and they will all benefit from a light feed during the growing season.'

'With the right mix, you can have something in scent for much of the year without it becoming high maintenance, and it makes arriving home feel that bit more special.'

So there you have it! Making your front doorway more inviting with low-maintenance, fragranced plants is a simple way to elevate your kerb appeal for spring.

With the pot arrangement, you can create a space that feels welcoming, looks gorgeous, and greets you and your visitors with scent.

Do you plan on planting any of these plants at your door? Which fragrant varieties are your favourites?

The right front garden lawn idea can transform your home. Neat, tidy and well-maintained spaces provide the first impression for passersby and neighbours, but there should be more to them than just appeasing curtain-twitchers from down the road.

Front gardens are traditionally simple spaces, typically with a square or rectangular patch of lawn and maybe a few shrubs thrown in for good measure. However, I think front gardens have the potential to be so much more than just unused lawns. Fortunately, many front garden ideas offer clever and attractive alternatives.

So, is it time to rethink the potential of our front lawns? Yes, and with a little imagination, you can easily create a space that is aesthetically pleasing, beneficial for the environment and functional. Here, we share some innovative and exciting front garden lawn ideas to try this year.

Our front lawns needn't be boring. If you are seeking new and novel small front garden ideas that incorporate environmental design elements, you've come to the right place. It is finally time to forget about manicured turf and perfect stripes and think outside of the box.

1. Incorporate a wildflower meadow

One garden trend that you will be aware of is replacing lawns with wildflower meadows. Many rewilding ideas encourage us to maximise native plants and wildflowers - and who wouldn't want more flowers in their front garden?

'If you have a front lawn, why not consider something more interesting and low maintenance than the classic lawn with stripes,' says Amber Hine, garden expert and owner of Hine Garden Design. 'One option is the on-trend meadow approach.

'It is important to do your research,' Amber adds, 'selecting a seed mix that suits your site. Why not opt for some yellow rattle to reduce grass vigour, along with other native blooms like poppies and cornflowers?' Wildflower seed mixes are available from Amazon.

'I would encourage you to consider not applying the no-mow-May approach,' Amber continues, 'and, instead, let your wildflower meadow stand for much longer. Allow the seeds to set, the insects to nest, and embrace the textures and tones of the seedheads that arrive late in the summer.'

2. Plant bulbs in your lawn

It is also a good idea to incorporate different plants that bloom at different times as part of your front garden lawn ideas. Year-round interest is something that gardeners should always be mindful of.

Consider planting daffodils, tulips or fritillaries for a natural bulb display that will bloom in late winter and early spring. I find these pops of bright colour can add interest to an otherwise green lawn, particularly at a time of year when the garden remains in its winter dormancy.

Plant your bulbs 2 to 3 inches deep, and be sure to leave the foliage to turn yellow before you cut back in the summer. This will give the bulb the best chance of returning the following year.

For another charming option that will create a jewel-like aesthetic when scattered through a lawn, try planting crocus bulbs, available from Amazon, for vibrant pops of orange, yellow and purple early in the year.

3. Use grass alternatives

There are many alternatives to grass that should be considered as part of your front garden lawn ideas. 'Two impressive grass alternatives are thyme and chamomile,' says garden designer and consultant, Raine Clarke-Wills. 'I would typically recommend these alternatives for smaller gardens to those interested in a wild aesthetic or those seeking herb garden ideas.'

'Thyme brings a gorgeous vibrancy with its plush pink and purple hues in the spring and summer months. It also saturates the surroundings with a captivating fragrance,' Raine adds.

'A thick carpet of chamomile can be a fantastic alternative to grass, preserving the emerald green colouring even in dry weather, and emitting a delightful fragrance reminiscent of apples,' Raine continues. 'Both thyme and chamomile form beautiful, low-maintenance options and can be walked upon.'

Other options include 'clover and sedum, two sustainable alternatives that don't need much water, fertiliser or mowing,' says gardener Jane Dobbs. Clover is certainly one weed to leave in a garden if you are keen on attracting pollinators to your plot.

'While clover fixes nitrogen in the soil, sedum helps retain moisture,' Jane adds. 'Even though clover is resilient to moderate foot traffic, it is not as resilient as more traditional turfgrasses, so I would caution against constant walking.

'Sedums are hardy and resilient, so they're perfect for low-traffic areas,' Jane says. 'But remember, these alternatives are not as tough as grass lawns when it comes to heavy traffic.'

Clover seed is available from Amazon.

4. Create a front garden orchard

Another option that will complement your meadow aesthetic is to create a micro-orchard. Even if you have a small lawn area, consider planting one or two dwarf fruit trees, helping to add vertical interest and privacy to your front garden. Grass, bulbs and wildflowers will happily grow around the base of any fruit trees. Dwarf apple trees are available from Amazon.

What's more, fruit trees are prized for their spring blossom, and who doesn't enjoy the sight of flowers in March and April? If you are keen to explore some bee garden ideas this year, a micro-orchard might be just the thing for you.

'Pollinators love native trees and plants,' says Jane Dobbs. 'Shrubs and trees with flowers, like apple and cherry trees, are great for a front garden. In early spring, when other flowers aren't blooming, these provide nectar and pollen.'

So, why not consider planting a fruit tree or two as part of your front garden lawn ideas, and enjoy a harvest of delicious apples, plums or cherries in the years to come?

5. Use winding pathways

Front garden lawns are often under-utilised spaces. Consider incorporating a winding path or stepping stones to invite visitors and children to use the space. After all, if you have a front garden, surely you should use it?

'A front garden that is just grass may not be practical for most of us,' says Alice Turner, Head of Product for Marshalls. 'Can you picture the muddy footprints you can track through the house? Opting for a combination of soft landscaping and hard landscaping is the best of both worlds.'

When considering front garden path ideas, think about the aesthetic that works for you and your home. Using modern, sleek paving slabs might not be the best look for an old cottage.

'One option I love is stepping stone paths,' says Alice. 'These can be an appealing choice, particularly for smaller gardens as they require less lawn removal.' As Alice says, stepping stones or a winding path through a lawn will help visitors engage with your front garden, making the most of your outside space.

FAQs

What is the most cost-effective solution to transforming a front lawn?

Creating a wildflower meadow is as simple as buying a packet of seeds, which can cost no more than a few pounds. Once you have your seeds, simply follow the sowing instructions and watch your plot jump to life in a matter of weeks.

So, why not consider implementing one or more of our exciting alternative front garden lawn ideas this year? Within no time, your bland turfed area can be transformed into a blaze of colour and hum with pollinators.

Do you feel overlooked every time you take the bins out? Can you sense the curtains twitching every time you put the key in the door? Want to avoid an awkward chat with your neighbours every time you set foot outside? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions, these front garden privacy ideas may interest you. 

Of course, it’s easy to forget about your front garden, but the best front garden ideas can instantly turn a neglected and forgotten space into something both practical and beautiful. And while you may take pride in making a small front garden look bigger or adding a front-facing vegetable patch to your outside space, you probably don’t want prying eyes checking out your handiwork. 

That’s why we’ve spoken to experts and asked them to share their best front garden privacy ideas. This way, you can turn this extra square footage into a space for you and your family… and not your nosy neighbours. 

Front garden privacy ideas

‘Front gardens are often a little-used, neglected space, but a few minor changes can help turn them into something that is a pleasure to be in. Before that, though, they need to be made more private. That doesn’t have to mean a high fence blocking out light and openness; creating a ‘sense’ of privacy should do the trick,’ explains Jonathan Rolande, Property Expert at Home Sale Hub. And this is how to do it. 

1. Add some privacy trees or hedges

If you’re looking to add some privacy to your front garden, privacy trees and hedges offer a natural solution that will look good from all angles and also draw in wildlife. Whether you choose trees or hedges is down to personal preference, though.

Morris Hankinson, director of Hopes Grove Nurseries, explains, ‘A well-situated tree can do wonders for privacy in a garden. Make sure the tree is suitable for the space in terms of size and spread before planting to block neighbours from overlooking your garden or from passers-by seeing in towards your windows. From Acer to Magnolia, there are so many options.’

But as front gardens are typically much smaller than back gardens, it’ll work in your favour to choose one of the best privacy trees for small gardens to ensure it doesn’t overpower your space. Alternatively, you could opt for hedging instead. 

‘Hedging is the perfect way to provide privacy in a front garden,’ says Morris. ‘Depending on the size of your space, there are many different hedging varieties to choose from, each growing at a fast or slower rate (depending on how fast you want to block your neighbours out)!’

‘Hedging will also help to encourage wildlife, providing nesting places and shelter. Evergreen hedging such as Yew, Thuja and Elaeagnus will ensure privacy all year round, but deciduous hedging such as Beech and Hornbeam can also be very useful and many do still hold on their brown leaves in winter.’

If you choose to plant these privacy trees or hedges along a property boundary that also borders a road, just remember to keep on top of maintenance. According to the gov.uk website, ‘The highways authority can ask you to cut back hedges or trees on your property if they’re causing an obstruction in the road. If you refuse, they can go into your property without your permission to do the work themselves. They may charge you for this.’

2. Plant out front garden borders

Although garden borders can hide an ugly garden fence in your back garden, they can also help to shield your front garden and your home from prying eyes. 

Of course, the opportunities are endless when it comes to the plants you choose for these front garden borders, but it’s best to opt for taller plants like grasses. 

Alick Burnett, managing director at Blooming Artificial, says, ‘Ornamental grasses are an excellent option and can be planted in front of any windows to block out any nosy passersby. The benefit of choosing grass plants is that there's very little maintenance to keep them healthy, plus you won't have to worry about them thinning out over winter. Opt for taller grasses and reeds, and try planting a few together to keep your front garden out of view.’

Where and how many plants you place within these borders is crucial, though. Guy Barter, Chief Horticulturalist at RHS, explains, ‘A solid peripheral barrier may not be ideal, particularly if it spoils the view. In these cases, strategically placed shrubs or bamboo planted within the garden can intercept lines of sight to particular windows. Bamboo rustles in the wind, so it also blocks out some street noise, but it will often need to have its roots contained by a root barrier to avoid excessive spread.’

But if you don’t want to actively dig your garden borders, you could use a container garden to create the same effect - either closer to your home or along your boundary line. 

3. Install privacy screens

The best garden screening ideas aren’t just for the back garden; they can also be used in the front garden to make it look and feel more private. 

With so many privacy screens to choose from, it’s ultimately down to you whether you opt for something natural and wooden or decorative and urban. Yet, whatever you choose will create a barrier between your property and the people and cars that roll on by.

Jonathan says, ‘Use decorative lattice or trellis-type screening in wood or metal. If you can, angle them to diffuse the morning or evening sun and create attractive shadows on your path or patio area.’

And if you want to stay on-trend, opting for cedar privacy screens could offer the perfect mix of practicality and style. 

However, it’s important to note that the legal height limit for a front garden fence or screen is 1 metre if it’s placed next to a pavement or roadway. If it’s not, you can get away with 2 metres. 

4. Mix a low-level fence with hedging

As the rules for front garden fence ideas and screens are fairly strict, a handy loophole is mixing a low-level fence with hedging. By adding this idea to the boundary of your property, you can ensure that you’re following legal requirements while adding even more privacy to your front garden. 

‘A nice way to screen a front garden is to install a low-level fence and then some hedging alongside it,’ explains Morris. ‘This creates a layered effect and a secure space as well. A white low fence for example with box hedging on the garden side allowed to grow a few feet above the fence looks really stylish.’

It’s easy for this hedging to look messy when perched atop a sleek and structured low-level fence, though, which is why it’s important to prune the hedge when you can.

5. Play with different levels

While it may sound counterintuitive, adding more dimension to your front garden and making it more appealing to passers-by can also increase the privacy of your outdoor space. After all, your nosy neighbours won’t quite know where to look.

Andy McLaughlin, Landscaping Specialist at RF Paving, explains, ‘Creating privacy within a front garden may be difficult at times, especially when you don’t want to totally obscure the natural light. Using different levels and creating zones can be a clever and often cost-effective way of creating privacy.’ 

‘The use of raised beds and clever planting with paths running between the beds can be very effective. The raised beds can be constructed by using the same material as the paving that is being used for the paths, perhaps railway sleepers, or maybe rendered blocks. Whichever construction method, the use of shrubs and tall grasses will create a visual screen without compromising the aesthetics of the garden.’

If you decide to take this approach make sure you indulge in creative front garden path ideas for an extra flourish.

6. Build a wall

It’s safe to say that garden walls have a bad reputation. Many people see them as boring, clinical, and cold - but they can actually be a very effective way to add some privacy to your front garden.

Morris says, ‘If you have a garden wall or looking to build one for privacy, consider leaving a space for plants on both sides of the wall. Planting outside the wall will give an extra layer of privacy and look aesthetically pleasing as well.’

‘When the wall is built and the bed prepared, it could be planted with any kind of suitable plants from bulbs to perennials or flowering climbers to thorny plants to deter people! Berberis, Hawthorn or Blackthorn are thorny options.’

Alongside this, you can also build a wall that suits your taste. There are so many different bricks on offer, from classic bricks to decorative breeze blocks. Just remember to abide by the law when building a wall for front garden privacy. 

The current law states that a garden wall should not exceed 2 metres without proper planning permission. If it fronts onto a road or pavement, however, it cannot be taller than 1 metre. 

When it’s in place, there are also many ways to hide an ugly garden wall so you can look out of your windows and be proud of the privacy wall you’ve built. 

7. Add a pergola, archway, or porch

If your main aim is to hide your home from prying eyes, adding a pergola, archway, or porch into the mix could be the best option for you - especially if you’re looking to bring the cottagecore trend to life. 

A spokesperson for Garden Buildings Direct says, ‘Pergolas can help to block the line of sight from onlookers. If you have a pergola with lots of gaps in the wood, you can train climbing plants to fill the spots and create an area of total privacy. Make sure to attach plants with a wire to each wooden post to provide more support.’

A front porch doesn’t cost as much as you’d think, and you don’t necessarily have to build this front porch or pergola on the front of your home, either. You could put these on the boundary of your property, adding a front garden gate to create a secondary entrance. 

When that’s covered in climbing plants, it’ll look absolutely stunning while still providing your home with privacy. 

FAQs

How can I make my front garden more private?

There are many ways to make your front garden more private, and this largely involves adding some kind of screening or barrier between your front garden and the outside world. It could be that you want to build a wall or install a fence, or you could opt for a more natural alternative and focus on privacy trees and tall garden borders.

Ultimately, you want to strike the perfect balance between privacy and openness. The last thing you want to do is add something that is going to make your front garden feel smaller and more contained.

How do I stop neighbours seeing my garden?

If you want to block out your neighbours’ prying eyes, think about adding one or more of the following to your front garden:

• Build a wall or fence
• Grow privacy trees or hedges
• Use privacy screens
• Add a pergola or porch
• Plant out garden borders

So, how will you be making your front garden more private?

EDITOR’S NOTE: An earlier version of this article included a quote from a purported expert whose credentials we have not been able to verify. The quote has been removed. We regret this lapse in our verification process and have updated our internal protocols to reduce the risk of recurrence.

When it comes to making the most of our outdoor space, our front gardens are often overlooked, especially if they are on the smaller side. But by doing so you could be missing out on having somewhere to plant some of your favourite blooms or even enjoy your cup of coffee in the morning.

So, if you thought that your front garden was too small to do anything with it, we’ve got several expert tips to help make a small front garden look bigger and help you make the most of the space.

Not all front garden ideas are made for a small garden, and even then not all of these will help make the space look bigger. So we've spoken to the experts to help arm you with the tips you need to create that illusion of space you're craving. 

How to make a small front garden look bigger

‘Making a small garden look and feel bigger can seem like a difficult task, but there’s plenty of ways to go about it,’ suggests James Ewens, Commercial Director at Alexander Francis. ‘A lot of the methods involve tricking the eyes to either give the illusion of something more or to draw them to certain spaces so as to not focus on the boundaries.’

And these are the 11 ideas that the experts recommend most to transform your small front garden ideas into one that looks and feels bigger than it is.

1. Choose plants that add depth

When space is at a premium you need to consider which types of plants will fit without taking up too much space. Opting for a container garden ideas is potentially the best option as you get the benefits of being able to move pots around as and when you need to, while also being able to fill the pots with your favourite plants and blooms.

When choosing plants for your pots, look for varieties such as trailing lobelias and petunias or classic fuchsias, azaleas and begonias.

‘You also want to allow room for growth when planting to ensure the space won't be overcrowded, as this can make your front garden appear even smaller,’ warns Tom Clifford, Gardenstone’s Landscaping Expert.

2. Utilise vertical space

Just because there isn’t a lot of space on the ground, doesn’t mean that you don’t have a lot of space to play with. You’ll want to start by looking upwards, to see what vertical space you have at your disposal. ‘Climbing plants like clematis or ivy soften walls and fences, blurring boundaries and creating the illusion of more depth,’ explains Josh Novell, Director at Polhill. 

While hanging baskets, planters and window boxes can simultaneously add a pop of colour and allow more flexibility when it comes to your choice of plants and blooms. ‘Plus, their distinctive look offers the opportunity to add interest by covering boring walls with blossoming colours and greenery,’ remarks Caron Grant, Brand Manager at Bridgman.

3. Embrace curves

It’s time to ditch the straight lines and embrace gentle curves in your front garden path ideas. ‘A curved path, for instance, draws the eye on a journey, making the garden feel longer than it is. This trick also applies to borders, so avoid rigid edges and opt for a more naturalistic flow instead,’ Josh says. 

Straight lines ‘will make the garden seem smaller and two-dimensional,’ Elaine Penhaul, Founder and Director of Lemon and Lime, agrees.

Tom also recommends that you ‘break up the space on your front lawn by incorporating a meandering path leading to your front door. The bends in the path will naturally draw the eye outwards to help create the illusion of a wider lawn.’ So, not only will it create visual interest but it will give the appearance of a larger front garden.

4. Keep paths narrow

Speaking of paths, most of our front gardens can be pretty narrow, so it’s important to think about the best layout. ‘By keeping pathways in your front garden narrow, you are actually not only maximising the planting space available, but you're tricking the eye into thinking your garden is bigger,’ LeisureBench’s Garden Expert, Steve Chilton, suggests.

‘If your path is too wide, then it will take up too much space and your garden will appear smaller.’

5. Add a seating area

For many of us, our front garden can be a bit of a dead space. But making it into a useful and usable area for seating can immediately change that.

Just be wary of cramming too large a piece of garden furniture in your front garden. Think about what will work best for you and the space that you have available to you. That could be a bistro set or a compact two-seater bench but either way, it will make you want to spend more time out there and will switch up the way that you think about your front garden.

6. Create a focal point

You can add a focal point to any sized garden, even small ones where it's a good way to take attention away from its size. And you don’t need a lot of space to create a centrepiece with an ornament or water feature.

‘Whether it be a flower bed, a tree, plant or small decoration, making a focal point can help focus the eye on one spot and make your garden look bigger than it really is,’ Steve reveals. 

7. Install lighting

For most, your front garden is the first thing that guests see when they visit. So, you’ll want to welcome any visitors by creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for them to walk through with your garden lighting ideas. The right lighting can ‘make your garden not only look bigger, but better too,’ says Steve. 

Caron recommends ‘illuminating pathways, driveways and even flowerbeds with solar lanterns, wall lights and pathway lamps.’ Choosing garden solar lights or rechargeable options saves you from having to worry about wires or replacing batteries. While sensor lights only come on as and when you need them to.

To highlight specific plants or shrubs, position uplighters or spotlights to focus the attention of these areas.

8. Combine a lawn with other elements

Having a mixture of different elements, when it comes to your garden landscaping idea can instantly open up the space. For example, Steve recommends always keeping a bit of grass or lawn in a small front garden. ‘The distinct difference between the grass will make your garden look bigger,’ he reveals. ‘It will also offer you more space for planting and look good on the eye.’

And Isabel Fernandez, Marketing Director at Quorn Stone, agrees. You’ll want to ‘mix hardscaping, such as pathways, cobbles, gravel, with naturalistic planting – evergreens, perennials etc. – to create zones and a sense of space and depth.’

9. Lighten up the colours

‘Light and airy colours make small spaces feel larger,’ Josh advises. There are a couple of different ways to use lighter colours, materials and plants to your advantage. For example, ‘light coloured tiling or decorative gravel on the ground, along with white or light grey flower beds, which will help to give the space a bright and airy feel,’ Elaine affirms.

Or, why not paint your fence a paler hue, like cream or pale blue. ‘Additionally, if you opt for light-coloured flowers like white lilies or pale pink petunias, they will also add an extra dose of spaciousness,’ Josh concludes.

10. Keep it well maintained

Another simple tip to follow; a messy, overgrown garden can make it look much smaller than it really is. So, you’ll want to keep on top of your gardening tasks or make your front garden as low maintenance as possible.

Steve recommends ‘keeping the grass nice and short and plants well-trimmed. You should also remove any weeds and keep paths clear to keep your garden looking organised and tidy, which in turn, makes it look bigger.’

FAQs

What works best for a narrow but small front garden?

Quite a few of us will have narrow front gardens but that doesn’t mean that you can’t make the most of that outdoor space. And thankfully the experts have a few solutions.

‘Try building up some height on either side to add more depth and disguise the narrow space,’ Fiona outlines. ‘Start with low bedding plants nearest to the path, then taller perennials in the middle and shrubs, hedging or ornamental grasses at the back.’

Whereas ‘if you have a grass lawn try mowing it with vertical stripes, these thin lines will create the impression of more lawn and widen the space,’ Tom explains.

Are there any hacks to make a small front garden look bigger on a budget?

‘Simply incorporating a mirror into your garden is a quick and budget friendly way to extend the appearance of your front garden,’ Tom suggests. ‘Not only do mirrors add visual interest but they will reflect areas of your garden and bounce light around the space. Plus this means the amount of plants or flowers you have in your garden will instantly be doubled.’

And ‘if you don't have a lot of budget for a complete renovation of your front garden, the best thing you can do is keep it neat and tidy, as well as remove any over-sized trees, plants and furnishings,’ Steve concludes.

Once upon a time, it was a front garden must-have. Now, though, there's a new buddleja on the block – and it's already making a splash.

Oh yes: while the conical purple flowers of our beloved butterfly bush still feature highly on our list of most covetable garden ideas, there's no denying that... well, that it's one of those garden trends that takes up a lot of space. Like, a lot.

And, while knowing when to cut buddleja back can help with this (a bit), there's no getting away from the fact these bushes can quickly spread to well over 5 metres in size. Eek.

The new buddleja?

Essentially, we're not so much in need of a hero as we are a new buddleja – or a good buddleja alternative, at least.

Enter stage left, then, the solidago 'goldkind'.

We know, we know: it's bright yellow. Still, you've likely seen these bee-friendly blooms outside more than a few of your neighbour's homes this year, and little wonder; its clusters of long-lasting flowers pack a serious punch.

And they do it without taking up much room, too.

‘If you’ve always had a thing for the buddleja’s conical blooms, but have a small garden, then the solidago 'goldkind' could be a good alternative,' says Christopher O'Donoghue, one of the co-directors of Gardens Revived.

Still, while people are dubbing this hardy plant the new buddleja, Christopher is keen to underline the fact that there are more than a few differences.

Colour aside, these tough herbaceous perennials require zero maintenance, making them an ideal addition to your list of beginners' front garden ideas.

They die back all by themselves when they're finished flowering, so no pruning is involved whatsoever, either. And, if you opt for the solidago 'goldenkind' variety, it will only grow to about 0.3m tall, too.

Of course, the two plants 'might have completely different characteristics, but they both give an amazing display when they bloom,' Christopher continues.

'Better still, it takes up much less room than a buddleja, too, so you won’t have to compromise on space. No wonder so many people have it in their front gardens right now.’

All hail the new buddleja, we guess!

Buy a solidago 'goldkind' for yourself

Experts at the Royal Horticultural Society agree, noting that 'solidago will manage in the poorest of soils, with no additional watering or feeding requirements to make them perform on a regular basis, once they are established.'

Throw in the fact it makes a good cut flower and it should bloom through to the early autumn, and we're basically sold on this one.

Alexa, cue up Coldplay's Yellow...

While the inside of our homes often gets the most attention, getting your front garden shipshape can make your home even more welcoming. Decorative front garden path ideas is one way of giving your home that kerb appeal, especially when it comes to selling your home.

Garden path ideas can be as cheap or as expensive as you have budget for. 'Reusing and upcycling existing materials is both cost effective and a great environmental approach to take,' explains David Hadley, managing director of Creative Gardens and Driveways. 

'If the path is being created as part of a wider garden project, look at existing materials around the home and consider whether items such as Yorkstone paving slabs from a patio can be repurposed to create a path. You could also ask friends or neighbours if they have any paving slabs or reclaimed bricks that are surplus to requirements.'

 Front path ideas 

Get creative with these front garden ideas and be inspired to give your front path a refresh. 

1. Add a coastal vibe with sleepers

If you live near the coast or love that style of garden, a combination of railway sleepers and gravel channels the look well for your front garden path ideas. 'Timber sleepers are ideal for crafting unique pathways. When laid between pebble bays they add a touch of natural beauty, setting them apart from conventional paving slabs,' says Megan Godden of Jacksons Fencing. 

'To ensure lasting durability it's important to select sleepers specifically designed for ground contact, and that come with a long lifetime guarantee. By doing so, you can ensure these alluring pathways continue to delight for years to come.' You could include coastal style plants or succulents which will thrive in a drier garden scheme. 

2. Lay stepping stones in your lawn

A cost-effective way to achieve front garden path ideas is by laying pavers among your planting scheme or lawn for a more subtle and natural effect. 'When working with stepping stones, pace out your new pathway beforehand to make sure you position them at a comfortable stride length,' advises Kelly Friel, Digital Product Manager at Zoro. 

'If they feel a little unstable once in the ground, you can always add some leftover soil or sand back underneath to ensure a nice level surface. This path design requires as little equipment as possible, so it’s a great option if this is your first DIY project on a budget.'  

3. Used mixed tiles for interest

When playing with larger garden ideas, tiles will give the space a more upmarket look. For a subtle design, use shades that complement existing brickwork. 'Patterned pathways with a border are a great way to create a timeless look that will draw the eye to your front door,' explains Louisa Swannell, head of creative design at Walls & Floors.

'Ensure you select tiles that enhance the overall aesthetic, (think matching or complementing colours) for a cohesive look. Porcelain tiles are best for outdoor use as they are hardwearing and weather proof, look for those with a matt finish and high slip rating.'  

4. Go for a monochrome effect

Monochrome is one of the most timeless design combinations you can choose and it's one of the most stylish garden path ideas for a period home. For a fiddly design like this, it's best to get a professional in to do the job, but you could paint your front door black to complement the tiles. 

5. Border a wooden path with natural planting

Simple staggered front garden path ideas made from reclaimed wood, decking boards or a composite material can be softened by pairing it with a natural style plant border. 

Easy-to-care for plants like wild geraniums and daisies will come back again and again and will blur the edges of the path into the border as they grow around it. Ferns and grasses would also work well. 

6. Set a winding path

If you have a larger front garden, creating a winding path leading up to your front door will encourage visitors to take time exploring your garden and adds to the sense of intrigue. 

Stepping stones can easily be made from scaffold boards cut down to the same size and nestled into a larger gravel path. Not only does it look great but it's a cost effective way of creating a unique path without spending a huge amount of cash. 

7. Stick to simple gravel

When it comes to covering a big space, pavers or brick can be really costly, so gravel makes a budget-friendly option. It's also a lot easier to work with if you're planning on doing the work yourself. We've been fans of gravel garden ideas for a while, after all.

'One cost-effective option is to construct a simple gravel pathway, which not only fits a budget but also the sound of footsteps on the gravel offers the added benefit of alerting you to visitors approaching your home,' explains Georgina Read, director at Paving Superstore. 

8. Make sure it fits the age of your property

The key thing to consider when choosing your front garden path ideas, is to make sure it suits the style of your home. While you may love contemporary design, if you have an older style property it could jar with the look. 

Take a look around your local area at similar houses for inspiration and make note of ideas you like and dislike. For a traditional stone house like here, a natural stone path laid in a mismatched style suits the rugged look of the house. 

9. Soften the look with plants

Hard landscaping ideas can have a harsh effect on the look of your garden so it's a good idea to use planting to counterbalance the tough materials. 

'To enhance the pathway's charm without significant cost, consider incorporating planting beds along its sides, seamlessly blending natural elements into the overall design,' says Georgina from Paving Superstore. 

'This addition can elevate the appeal of the pathway without straining your budget.' Grasses look great as they sway in the wind and are a low maintenance option.

10. Take architectural details into account

Do research into the age of your home and choose tile designs that fit the style.  'Creating a stylish pathway involves considering the architectural style of your home and selecting materials that complement it,' explains Georgina from Paving Superstore.

'For instance, a traditional cottage can be enhanced by a brick-style path, while a Victorian home may be well-suited to a tile or mosaic-style paver. It's important to choose material colours that blend with the paint tones of your door and window frames, or the natural colours within your brickwork.' 

Gardening experts weigh in on this front garden idea gaining more popularity recently – and it's a garden trend that we think is perfectly in line with the onset of the RHS Chelsea Flower Show currently ongoing as we speak: a front garden vegetable patch.

If you have a small garden that lacks the space or sunlight to grow your own vegetables, fruits, and herbs at home, rest assured that it's not all doom and gloom because sometimes all you need is to switch things up – and it's as simple as taking your green thumb to the front garden instead.

Front garden vegetable patch

While some people instead opt to grow vegetables in pots on a windowsill or balcony, sometimes that simply doesn't itch the gardening craving you're after.

Founder of Oasis Garden Design and garden designer, Jacquie Felix Mitchell says: 'Vegetables need not be grown in the back garden or the allotment. You can grow them in front gardens too: on balconies, in pots, or in raised beds.'

Chiming in agreement, Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk adds: 'The front garden can have better-growing conditions than the back and there’s absolutely no reason why you can’t use it as a veggie patch.'

Front garden vegetable patches aren't just a thing we plucked out of thin air either, as a relative of our Acting Content Director, Kayleigh Dray, explains that she opted to create a veggie patch in her front garden 'as it's south-facing and the plants do better out there than in the back.'

Kayleigh's relative says she has tomatoes, gooseberries, raspberries, potatoes, beans, peas, and companion flowers growing in her front garden – and we have to say, it's a small front garden idea that's sure to make a great first impression.

How to achieve your own front garden vegetable patch

As with any garden idea, planning is key – and Chris Bonnett shares some top factors to consider when planning a front garden vegetable patch.

1. Light

'Depending on how much light your front garden has, plant appropriate vegetable plants. Tomatoes need lots of light so if your garden is shady, they’re not for you.'

2. Soil

'The soil type will determine what you plant and what will grow. Improve your soil by adding plenty of organic material such as compost.'

3. Make use of planters and hanging baskets

'If you have lots of planters, make good use of these, especially if you have concrete in your front garden. It’s a quick and easy way to plant up some vegetables without having to remove all the hard landscaping.'

If you're growing strawberries or growing tomatoes, Chris reminds us to not forget that you can grow fruit and veg in hanging baskets too.

4. Planting

Chris finalises: 'Invest in some decent plants to get your veg patch off to a good start and think about companion planting. This is when you put plants that will help each other grow together.'

Where space is precious, Oasis Garden Design's Jacquie Felix Mitchell recommends considering using the 'Three Sisters' method.

Jacquie explains: 'This form of companion planting can confuse pests. For example, you can grow carrots and onions together, to distract carrot flies from the scent of the carrots they crave. Go up a level by planting runner beans to climb up decorative obelisks or bamboo tepees for a sculptural element.'

'Whatever you do, use the simple design elements of symmetry to make your front garden vegetable patch a thing of beauty. Surround the plot with a low-growing ornamental hedge or staples like marigolds, which attract pollinators into the space.'

Your front garden is one of the first things people will see when they look at your home, so it’s important to make a good impression. Any front garden, small, big and everything in between can be stylish and practical with careful planning that ensures you avoid front garden mistakes. If you don’t get to plan your garden from scratch, there will likely be elements of your front garden that don’t quite work and need tweaking. 

Experts have told us the top front garden mistakes that will stop your garden ideas from looking its best. However, even if you are guilty of these mistakes, this is an opportunity to transform your garden into a beautiful space you love that works all year round. 

Yvonne Keal, senior product manager at Hillarys says, ‘Although your home may be amazing internally, a common mistake people make is not spending time or effort on its external appearance including the front garden. If you don’t take care of your front garden it could become overgrown or barren, which may put visitors off.  

‘Spend 30 minutes tidying your front garden or display a new welcome mat and you’ll be surprised at how inviting it will make your home. Another way to enhance your front garden is to go bold and paint your front door a bright colour. It’s the perfect way to make a statement and can totally transform your home’s curb appeal.’

Front garden mistakes to avoid 

‘Your front garden is the first part of your home that people see, so designing and maintaining it is a great way to add value to your home,’ says Johanna Elvidge, head of domestic design at Marshalls. 

For your front garden ideas instead of having tired fencing or unsightly brick walls, take the opportunity to replace them with a natural border which is much more visually appealing. Choose landscaping materials and plants that complement the exterior of your home and will set the tone for your interior style. 

1. Your front door looks tired

Your front door sets the tone for the rest of your home and garden so it's important to get it right. A good sturdy front door should last you a lifetime and can be created from uPVC, composite or timber. Use the front door as a chance to tease and give a small insight into your personality and style within the home. If you’re looking for budget garden ideas, instead of replacing the entire door spruce up your existing door. Signs that your front door needs attention include drafts, leaks, sagging and flaking paint. 

Simply re-painting your front door can give it a new lease of life. Strip any faded, flaking paint with a paint stripper specific to your finish and clean away any dirt and grime. Replace any loose hinges or cracked panels and treat areas of rotten wood. When choosing a new paint colour don’t be afraid to go bold and choose a weather-resistant paint. Apply a protective UV coating over your paint to help reduce bleaching, heat retention and swelling. 

2. Not keeping the edge of your lawn tidy

Your front garden ideas will look much more polished if you keep your lawn edges as neat as possible. A front garden mistake that can make your garden look unfinished is mowing your grass but not finishing off your edges. Lawn edging gives the grass areas in your garden distinct and clear-cut lines and instantly makes it look sleek and tidy. Edging the lawn of your front garden can be as simple as trimming the grass where it meets a patio, path, or non-lawn features within your garden. 

For a more elaborate design, your garden edging ideas can involve physical edging such as stone or metal borders for an even cleaner definition. The best time of year to cut the edges of your lawn is spring. This is because the grass is growing at a good speed and the soil isn’t too hard from the cold or dried out from the summer sun. The best tool to give your lawn a sharp edge is a half-moon edger to re-cut the edges and long-handled edging shears to trim the edges. 

3. The weeds have taken over your garden

Weeds are pesky intruders that no one wants or asks for but they plague all types of gardens. They can be found within your lawn, your patio and even your decking and can grow all over your garden. Not keeping your weeds under control is a front garden mistake that can easily be fixed with chemical-free weed killers. 

Letting weeds run wild can spoil the look of your front garden, take nutrients from the soil and even tear through structural foundations in the case of Japanese knotweed. A good way to stay on top of your weeding is to set aside time specifically for tackling them when you do any gardening. 

Some of the best ways to keep weeds at bay include digging them up with a garden fork or hand trowel. Or add biodegradable mulch to the top of your soil such as garden compost, leaf mould and wood chippings to suppress weeds and help your plants grow. 

For an easy, cheap option, use boiling water at the base of the plants to shock and kills the weed plus any seeds dormant in the soil. This method is especially good for paths, patios and driveways which are often found in front gardens. Vinegar is another useful tool for killing weeds due to the acetic acid in the vinegar effectively killing weeds. However, be careful to only use this on the weeds because vinegar will destroy all plants so needs to be used selectively. 

4. There are no outdoor lights

Your front garden should look welcoming and still be a focal point even at night, which is when garden lighting becomes essential. Lighting in your front garden not only looks good but acts as a form of security and is especially good for any blind spots you may have. 

‘Fairy and decorative lights aren’t just for Christmas and can be used all year round wrapped around tree trunks, structural plants or hedges to add a magical glow to the front of your home. Lanterns or solar light stakes can be strategically placed around flower beds or on steps and pathways to create visual interest. 

'Stunning silhouettes can be achieved with ground-level lighting along driveways and pathways or under large trees. For a simple, more understated look, hang wall lights or sconces near your front door or garage to provide the right amount of light for these areas for access at night,’ advises Deborah Cobb, landscaping product manager at MKM.

5. Having too many high-maintenance plants

Maintaining a garden takes time and that is not always easy to find. Having too many high-maintenance plants is a front garden mistake that will require you to constantly be out in the garden pruning and caring for your plants to keep them looking good. Planting low-maintenance plants will give you a stunning and easy-to-care-for outdoor space which even the least green-fingered person can handle. 

‘Choose plants that don’t require very much care and can thrive in all seasons. Plants such as lavender, ferns and hydrangeas are a great low-maintenance choice,’ says experts at Garden Street. 

For a hardworking shrub that will attract hummingbirds and bees, the weigela is the perfect option, giving you colourful foliage and tubular blooms. A black-eyed Susan is a low-maintenance perennial with golden yellow daisies and can handle full sun and partial shade.

6. Not having plants that give all year-round interest

Your front garden shouldn’t just look good in the summer, but be a green sanctuary all year round. Planting a mix of evergreens and perennials will keep your garden looking green in the winter and bring back your favourites each year. 

‘If your front garden dazzles in the summer but looks dead in the winter, make sure you're planting flowers and plants that bloom all year long to prevent this. Evergreen trees and shrubbery are a great addition to make your front garden look green and bright all year round,’ says Rian Habergham, garden expert at Leisure Bench. 

For your garden border ideas, mother of thyme is a perennial which is perfect for low-growing ground cover and will give you a lovely scent and delicate pink flowers. The bell-shaped foxglove comes in a variety of bright colours such as purple, yellow and red. The Portuguese laurel is an evergreen shrub with maroon coloured stems contrasted against strong green leaves while being very hardy and easy to care for.  

7. Choose plants and shrubs that require little pruning

‘If you don’t like gardening, fill the front garden with shrubs and conifers which are either slow growing or will keep a compact shape without any pruning. Try Choisya, dwarf azaleas, dwarf conifers, grasses and hebes,’ says Angela Slater, gardening expert at Hayes Garden World. For some shrubs, pruning is actually detrimental to their health and will reduce the number of flowers you get returning each year. 

Rhododendrons naturally grow into a compact shape, have large glossy leaves and come in a variety of shapes and sizes to best suit your garden. Winter Daphne is another plant that thrives and flowers more the less that it is pruned and their pinkish white flowers appear in mid to late winter, providing a beautiful focal point in your garden. 

8. Not having a clear pathway to the door

A well-designed garden pathway leading to your front door is essential because it is the first step people will make to enter your home. It marks the transition from a shared street to a private personal space.

Rian Habergham from Leisure Bench says ‘If there's no designated way to get to the front door, then chances are that visitors are going to walk over each and every part of the lawn. This can have a damaging effect on the health of your grass, as well as any other plants you have growing. Make sure that you have a pathway of some sort, whether that's a gravel pathway or concrete.’

What is a foolproof front garden idea that will always look good? 

For an easy garden idea that will keep your front garden looking good with minimal effort choose a paved or gravelled front garden instead of a lawn. 

‘A simple front garden is always a foolproof front garden,’ says Rian Habergham from Leisure Bench.

‘Stick to the necessities and not only will your garden look neat and tidy, but it will be much easier to maintain, which is especially important if you're already spending a lot of time in your back garden. A simple garden could have: - a designated pathway leading to the front door, - a neat grassy lawn, - a working garden gate and fencing if suitable, - a flower bed or potted flowers. Overdoing your front garden can be a problem because it's hard to look after and keep tidy, so keeping it simple is a great solution to this problem.’

What can go wrong in a front garden? 

‘A mistake to avoid in your front garden is not creating a clear path to the doorway. Visitors will take the shortest and quickest route to the door, so design a path that easily directs them to your house so they aren’t taking shortcuts across flowerbeds and the lawn,’ say experts at Garden Street. 

Be careful to not plant shrubs which grow too tall and restrict light from entering your house. Also don't plant trees too close to your house and drainage systems because the roots could find a small crack in a drain and cause it to expand causing major expensive damage.

Anna Hampshire, head of marketing at Marshalls advises planning out the layout of your front garden before carrying out any work. 

‘Weather conditions in the UK are notoriously diverse, so your paved areas need to withstand whatever is thrown at them. Take the time to map out and plan your space, particularly patio areas. This includes calculating the gap in between slabs and ensuring the right jointing material is used. You should also make sure that you have adequate drainage for areas prone to flooding, which is particularly important if your garden is on a slope.’

What should you be doing in a front garden? 

Your front garden is no different to your back garden and the garden mistakes you want to avoid are the same. You should be doing things such as mowing the lawn during the periods of growth in the spring and summer. Remove any weeds, taking care of your flower beds and potted plants and trimming any climbing plants, large trees and bushes.

‘Your front garden is the first part of your home that people see, so designing and maintaining it is a great way to add value to your home. Outdoor lighting is also a great way to add ambience to a garden - line the paths with low-level solar-powered lights or string outdoor fairy lights amongst the trees or trellises. 

'Speaking of paths, another great DIY solution to sprucing up your front garden is to add new edging to your pathway, freshening up the garden paving and creating a border between hard and soft landscaping,’ says  Johanna Elvidge from Marshalls.

‘Vertical gardens, which lift plants away from ground level to adorn walls and other vertical surfaces, are excellent for gardeners who have limited space. However, there’s no reason why someone with a more substantial garden shouldn’t borrow inspiration from the micro-gardeners to create a touch of magic. If you’ve got an area that’s looking a little drab, like a boring wall or plain doorway, use anything that comes to hand and cover it in lush greenery and bright blooms.’

If you're looking for beautiful front garden ideas, the world really is your oyster – there are so many ways to spruce up your space, big or small.

In fact, many of the best small garden ideas can be applied to your home's entryway, too. Whether you're hoping to re-landscape or spruce up the planting, there are countless ways to transform your front garden into an impressive sight for guests and passers-by.

To help you upgrade your front garden, we've rolled our favourite design tricks, planting tips and landscaping ideas into one list.

1. Train a natural archway

There's nothing quite like a leafy green entrance to the home – or, better still, a floral one.

Many fast-growing climbing plants that can be grown around the front door produce scented blooms during the summer, too, from star jasmine to honeysuckle. Honeysuckle 'Rhubarb and Custard', which you can order from Crocus, provides a sweet fragrance all summer when it's in flower.

A simple arch trellis around the doorframe or porch can provide the perfect growing space for them until they flourish into one of the most beautiful front garden ideas.

2. Decorate an obelisk with flowering climbers

If you'd rather grow climbing plants in your front garden as a standalone feature than against the wall, it's worth investing in an obelisk like this traditional steel rust obelisk from Crocus.

Fast-growing varieties like clematis can cover structures like these at speed (you could even try our Gardens Editor's mum's slinky hack for growing clematis), and they make beautiful focal points in a front garden, either as a pair or a solo feature.

3. Go for a natural stone front patio

If you're looking for patio ideas for your front garden, natural materials like limestone and sandstone are versatile and complement a range of house styles.

In the image above, the sandy paving tones beautifully complement the brickwork and wooden cladding on the front of the house, as well as the tiled roof over the front porch. Since there are so many different colours in natural stone, it's easier to pair with a range of house styles and palettes.

4. Enhance your entrance with clay pavers

Looking at front gardens across the UK, you'll notice that a vast number are entirely paved. Some are allocated solely to cars, while others provide an entryway into the home – and that's where garden path ideas come into play.

Tapping into the style of your house's exterior can help you choose a paving material that perfectly complements your home, and clay pavers are a popular choice for a reason.

'For red brick Victorian-style properties, the entrance pathway will always make a statement, so consider clay pavers in a contrasting shade,' suggests Georgina Read, managing director at Paving Superstore.

5. Use gravel for an informal and secure front garden

If you're looking to add security to your home, gravel is a brilliant DIY garden path idea because it will crunch as anyone approaches the door or window. As well as looking and sounding great, this is a popular choice for homeowners on a budget.

In the image above, flowering groundcover plants like perwinkle grow through the gravel along the edge of the house for a wilder front garden aesthetic.

These Mellow Cotswold Decorative Stones from B&Q will infuse a front garden with soft honey tones.

6. Train flowering plants along a trellis screen

For pretty front garden privacy ideas, consider training a flowering climbing plant like jasmine or honeysuckle along a trellis to screen your front garden from neighbours.

'Varieties such as clematis, ivy, honeysuckle, or wisteria can scale trellises effortlessly, turning bland pieces of architecture into an eye-catching, personalised display,' says Owen Simpson, managing director at Henchman.

'Mix and match different varieties for a dynamic effect and invest in sturdy support structures to ensure the plants thrive.'

This star jasmine from Thompson & Morgan produces countless sweetly-scented blooms.

7. Make a feature of an ornamental tree

Ornamental trees are another great choice for a front garden. Whether you're looking for the best trees for small gardens or a statement tree for a larger space, there are plenty of attractive options to choose from (especially if you pick one that flowers beautifully in the spring!)

'Ornamental trees can make a beautiful addition to any front garden, adding style and a burst of colour!' says Morris Hankinson, founder of Hopes Grove Nurseries. 'If you have grass in your front garden with very little else going on, an ornamental tree will make a great focal point.'

Morris recommends a flowering almond (Prunus triloba) for gorgeous pink flowers in early spring and red fruit in the summer, or a Japanese maple (Acer japonicum), which has deep red and burgundy foliage, perfect for autumn. You can order a full moon maple from Gardening Express.

8. Incorporate edging

The best garden edging ideas combine style with function, and they can make a real statement as part of your front garden ideas.

'Edging adds a sense of shape and style to your front garden and keeps everything neat and tidy,' says Matt Carroll, head of assured landscaping at Bradstone. 'It comes in several materials, including plastic, wood and stone.

'Plastic is a cheaper alternative and can sometimes look unsightly against a well-designed garden, and wood can rot or warp once weathered. On the other hand, concrete or natural stone edging is stylish, versatile and durable, and will stand the test of time, making it worth the investment.'

You could try lining edging around flower beds, underneath windows, or against walls and fences to highlight different areas of your front garden.

9. Frame the front door with bold flowers

Once you've sorted your front door ideas, consider framing the porch with potted flowering plants. Opt for bold blooms and foliage to give guests a cheerful welcome when they arrive at your home.

'For two pots framing a doorway, I often use white camellias, rhododendron ‘Cunningham’s White’, Arbutus (the strawberry tree), and Grisillinia litoralis with its lovely apple green foliage that looks so cheerful in the winter,' says garden designer Harriet Worsley.

'I always try to add a bit of Sarcococca into a front garden scheme somewhere, as it has a stealthy winter honey scent that creeps up and hits you as you pass.'

Our Gardens Editor's mum frames her front porch with potted begonias. Try Begonia 'Nonstop Rose Petticoat' from Thompson & Morgan for bold pink blooms.

10. Line a front path with pots

Containers are perfect for adding greenery to a front garden if you're low on soil space, and they can also be used to zone pathways.

'Potted plants are a versatile and easy way to add colour, texture, and interest to your front garden,' says Jenny Davis, head of marketing at Forest Garden. 'They can be used to line pathways or even create a mini-garden on a porch or patio. Consider using a mix of pots in various sizes and materials to add depth and visual interest.

Try growing scented plants like lavender to greet guests with a gentle fragrance, or learn how to grow peonies in pots for gorgeous blooms from late spring.

11. Keep a neat lawn

If you're lucky enough to have a lawn in your front garden, there are plenty of lawn ideas to experiment with. The most popular, though, is the traditional manicured look.

'Keep a front garden lawn well-maintained by regularly mowing and trimming it to keep it neat and tidy,' says Chris Bonnett, owner of Gardening Express. 'You may also want to consider installing a garden path or walkway to create a more defined space within your garden.'

12. Consider low-maintenance lawn alternatives

If you'd rather spend less time tending to your front garden, there are plenty of low-maintenance lawn alternatives to consider.

'There are low upkeep and slow growing seed mixes which require much less mowing than most grass seed types,' says Chris Mcllroy, lawn expert at The Grass People. 'Ideal for those of us who are looking for a low-maintenance lawn, the seeds are particularly good for lawns that are shaded. Plus, they'll be hard-wearing, drought-tolerant, and can grow well in low-nutrient conditions.'

Creeping thyme and golden creeping Jenny, available at Crocus, are also popular choices. You can buy clover seeds from Amazon to cater for wildlife, too.

13. Add furniture

The best garden furniture ideas can enhance a front garden as well as a back garden.

'Furniture can be a fantastic addition to a front garden, transforming it into a welcoming, functional space,' says Jenny from Forest Garden. 'It can serve as an extension of your living area, offering a spot to enjoy a morning coffee or an evening chat with neighbours.

'The key is to ensure the furniture doesn’t obstruct pathways or overwhelm the space. It should enhance the garden's appeal without taking away from the natural beauty. For instance, if you have a cottage-style garden, a wooden bench or wrought iron seating can blend beautifully.'

Look out for weatherproof styles or learn how to weatherproof garden furniture to help it last longer.

14. Flank the front door with potted bay trees

Curate a smart entrance by placing a pair of clipped standard bay trees on either side of the front door. Painted trellis flanks this country porch, shading the doorway and providing a home for climbing plants.

'Large feature pots by the front door or on a terrace in front of windows help to create privacy and make the garden look elegant and fun,' says garden designer Harriet Worsley.

You can order a standard bay tree from Thompson & Morgan.

15. Add lighting

As with your other outdoor spaces, consider which garden lighting ideas you could add to your space.

'We’d recommend adding lighting to highlight specific areas like your porch, creating a welcoming ambience,' says David Amos, founder of Amos Lighting. 'Choose energy-efficient lighting that is suitable for outdoor use and ones which complement the style of your home.'

Think about how outdoor lighting will enhance security as well as style. 'Consider wall lights on either side of the door or possibly a recessed spotlight from above for a porch,' suggests Piero De Marchis, director of Detail Lighting.

'If you are opting for one light, place it on the side where the keyhole and door handle are as it will make it easier when unlocking your door. Above all, ensure it is warm and inviting and makes guests feel safe.'

16. Plant a fragrant border

Gardens can please all the senses, so don't just look at visuals for your front garden ideas and call it a day. Our sense of smell is so important when building the atmosphere of a space, and can elevate our mood in seconds.

If you're looking for garden border ideas, planting fragrant herbs and flowers along your path will provide a pleasant welcome home every day. Think lavender, peonies and roses.

17. Change with the seasons

Just like styling your indoor space, you can have fun changing up your front garden ideas with the seasons. A festive wreath, zinc tubs filled with freshly foraged foliage and pots holding seasonal blooms will do the trick.

Plus, there are wreaths for every season, and they're the perfect way to decorate a front door. We love Dunelm's selection of wreaths.

18. Utilise hanging baskets

Hanging baskets allow you to make the most of the vertical space available to you, and there's a long list of the plants for hanging baskets to choose from.

‘Hanging baskets are a simple way to brighten up your front garden and can be particularly effective if you have limited space,’ says Tom Clifford, director of Gardenstone. ‘You can hang them either side of your door or garage to frame the area and add a pop of colour.'

Incorporating flowers vertically will naturally draw the eye upwards and create the illusion of a more expansive space.

19. Swap a fence for a hedge

Many terraced and semi-detached homes use front garden ideas that separate their space from their neighbours'. The most common in urban areas is a wall or an array of garden fence ideas, but a simple switch to a hedge will provide natural interest, not to mention a hangout for wildlife.

The most common choice is boxwood, which offers dense leaves that can easily be pruned into shape. Other popular options include laurel hedging, which can be purchased from Gardening Express.

20. Include raised beds

Raised beds aren't just for the back garden. If you're looking for easy garden ideas, they can be the perfect addition to a front garden. Plant evergreen shrubs and include some seasonal perennials to provide bursts of colour throughout the year.

This style is also great if your home is on a hill or slope, as you can build the beds above one another like steps. Portable options are also available, like the Outsunny 2-Piece Raised Beds from Amazon.

21. Try a mirror

Garden mirror ideas are a great way to make outdoor spaces seem bigger, but have you ever considered using one in your front garden? Well, Elaine Penhaul, founder of home staging company Lemon and Lime, suggests doing exactly that not only to make the space feel larger, but also to add instant visual interest.

‘Garden mirrors work well in a private front garden,’ says Elaine. ‘Putting more than one mirror together and framing it with climbing plants will soften the edges and help to create a cohesive look.’

Plus, this can be a rather inexpensive front garden upgrade if you’re looking for budget garden ideas.

22. Add pattern with a tiled path

Though often overlooked, the ground is the perfect opportunity to add colour and pattern to a front garden. With developing techniques and technology, it's now possible to find almost any tile design in outdoor-appropriate material.

Just remember that while some tiles may be suitable for outdoor use, they can become slippery, so ensure you speak to your supplier to make sure they will be safe to walk on in inclement conditions.

23. Add a water feature

There are a range of benefits to adding a water feature to your front garden, from blocking out external noise from traffic on busy streets to attracting wildlife.

‘Not only are water features visually appealing, but they can also transform your front garden into a calming sensory experience,' says Marlena Kaminska, designer at ValueLights. 'The gentle sound of flowing water will greet you on your return home, helping you to transition away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.'

Where to buy water features:

24. Install a rustic path to add character

Set the scene with a wooden decked pathway leading up to the front door. This rustic wooden design, infilled with pebbles, offers a softer approach to a front garden path, instead of paving slabs and bricks.

The look can be softened even further with wild but thoughtful planting on either side of the path.

25. Hide bins with a wheelie bin store

If you don’t have a lot of outdoor space to begin with or are limited to a front garden only, it can be tricky to think of wheelie bin storage ideas. But that doesn’t mean you can't hide them in a stylish way.

'While a collection of wheelie bins and recycling boxes can immediately bring down the look of even the nicest of front gardens, you can hide bins using a wooden bin store or sit them behind some trellis that also doubles as a planting feature to keep your front garden looking clutter-free,' suggests Furniturebox’s product development lead, Laura Rich.

Or, use potted plants like the ones in the image above.

26. Curate a corner of thoughtful planting

Give your driveway a modest planting scheme to pretty up the exterior of your home. Carve out a corner bedding arrangement to plant a mix of perennial green foliage and seasonal flowering shrubs such as hydrangeas to add a splash of colour.

Use garden trellis ideas to extend the planting vertically, to flank the doorway, and to make the most of a compact corner plot.

27. Plant tactical topiary for privacy

If your small front garden doesn't offer much in the way of outdoor space, use it to cultivate a garden that offers privacy. This is especially important if your house resides by the roadside, directly on the pavement.

Topiary is a great way to create your own piece of living architecture to create shelter from the outside world. Add topiary balls by the front door to complement the boxwood topiary hedge.

'We usually plant a hedge of bay, bush-form olives or Grisellinia litoralis in front troughs to act as a boundary or provide a screen between the street and the front garden,' says garden designer Harriet Worsley. 'Evergreens are essential here, as no one wants to arrive home to a hedge that is dying back in October.'

28. Dress the windowsill

You can keep things simple but stylish with planting ideas for window boxes.

This idea is perfect for dressing the exterior of your home, but also provides a pretty view through the window from indoors, too. Go for trailing plants to create a cascading effect.

FAQs

What plants grow in the front garden UK?

The options are endless! Of course, it all depends on how much light your front garden receives.

'Consider which way your front garden is facing, as this may impact which plants will thrive best,' advises Morris from Hopes Grove Nurseries.

Plus, you'll need to consider how much drainage your front garden allows.

'Make sure you have proper drainage for water, otherwise your driveway could become waterlogged when watering your plants,' warns Morris.

It's also important to consider which plants and trees could block light from your neighbours' gardens, or you could receive a hefty fine.

How can I tidy up a small front garden?

Keeping on top of maintenance will help your front garden look as good as possible.

Sweep away fallen leaves and trim any plants that begin to grow over doorways or paths. This will remove any trip or safety hazards and keep your front garden looking neat and tidy.

During the summer, learn how to deadhead roses and other flowering plants that are growing in your front garden to keep them flowering for as long as possible.

And of course, if you have a paved front garden or pathway, learn how to clean paving slabs to help your space look fresh all year round.

No matter how large or small your space and budget, there are plenty of front garden ideas to choose from. Have fun seeing what works for your space!