The cottage garden style uses informal designs, dense plantings and traditional materials. When designing a cottage garden, maintaining a rustic aesthetic is key for an authentic portrayal of classic countryside charm.

Ideal for small garden spaces or sectioning larger outdoor areas, cottage gardens typically feature densely-packed flower beds alongside herbs, vegetables and climbing plants for year-round interest.

To design a show-stopping cottage garden, plant colourful perennials, add a layer of trees and shrubs and incorporate natural wood in the form of outdoor furniture and planters.

Whether you have a large or small garden, transforming it into a haven for wildlife can create a harmonious space where you can connect with nature while providing essential habitats and food sources for wildlife. 

From wildflowers to potted plants, growing a variety of greenery will attract bees, butterflies, birds and more while increasing biodiversity. Bird feeders and bird food will also attract a diverse range of bird species. 

Consider extending the intervals between mowing the lawn, as allowing certain patches to grow longer can provide essential shelter and food for small garden creatures.

If you appreciate clutter-free spaces and a contemporary vibe, a modern, minimal garden design is perfect for you. Embrace 'less is more' with repeated patterns, clean lines and limited plants and colours.

Create designated seating areas for relaxation and entertaining with garden furniture sets and incorporate storage solutions to keep tools and equipment organised. 

To achieve a unified plant display, opt for architectural perennials like agapanthus or hostas. Grouping different-sized plants will also add texture to selected spaces.

The Mediterranean garden style can be effortlessly recreated year-round. From fragrant, low maintenance plants to beautiful centrepieces, it's simpler than you think to craft an idyllic escape.

Palm trees are synonymous with Mediterranean landscapes, while colourful, fragrant flowers like lavender will effortlessly add a tropical essence to your outdoor space. 

Another way to recreate an authentic Mediterranean garden design is to decorate with water fountains and sculptures to capture the soothing, elegant ambience of the Mediterranean aesthetic. 

Design your own slice of paradise by turning your garden into a tropical escape. Feel like you've been transported to a different world by planting evergreen foliage, incorporating garden lighting and maintaining a natural look. 

Tropical gardens are densely planted, so go for plants with vibrant flowers and large leaves, and plant them in layers to achieve that lush, resort-like feel.

Experiment with outdoor lighting, using lanterns or solar lights for uplighting on focal-point plants. The atmospheric lighting will create a setting reminiscent of warm, tropical evenings. 

Creating your own edible garden allows you to enjoy fresh, homegrown fruits, vegetables and herbs while giving you a beautiful landscape that enhances your outdoor space and connects you to nature.

From metal raised beds to troughs, ensure you select containers that provide good drainage and sufficient space for growth and place them in a position that receives ample sunlight. 

Selecting the right soil is also important, with many types to choose from based on what you're growing. That said, there are plenty of vegetable, fruit and herb plants to grow, so you can enjoy the process of planting, nurturing and harvesting your own produce. 

Shade gardening allows you to cultivate a serene environment where shade-loving plants can thrive. Though, not all shade is the same. Some plants thrive in full shade, while others need some sunlight. 

To plant a shade garden, ensure soil has proper drainage and nutrients to support plants. Woodland or shade plants like ferns and hydrangeas prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil. 

Incorporate a mix of trees, shrubs, bulbs and annuals to create a layered look that mimics a natural woodland and rely on colour and texture to create visual interest.