I’m always going on about making gardens feel cosy – a nice bench, raised planters, mixing plants with furniture ….you get the idea.
But what if you’ve got kids or pets? Are you really going to just sit there while they run around? I don’t know about yours, but the kids I know won’t stay put for more than two minutes.
That stylish bit of garden furniture you love? It’s going to end up covered in toys. And let’s not forget Lego …. those little bricks with their magical ability to end up underfoot will find the perfect hiding spot in your slightly overgrown grass. And you’ll only find them the painful way…
Still, even with our crazy British weather, a bit of fresh air does everyone good – us and the kids included.
What about one to the kids…
This one’s easy! Kids will make fun out of just about anything. How about grabbing some old bowls or kitchen bits, filling them with soil or mud, and letting them cook up some “gourmet” dishes?
You could also plant some aromatic herbs they can freely play with, like mint, rosemary, or lavender. They smell amazing and work great in those ‘mud pies’ too!
Speaking of pretend cooking ! why not give them a little patch to grow their own plants? They love getting messy anyway, so let them plant their own herbs (which, let’s be honest, you’ll end up using for real food).
If you’ve got the space, go all out .. build a wooden playhouse, pitch a camping tent, toast some marshmallows over a fire pit. The possibilities are endless.
The best part? It’s all good for them. Fresh air, movement, and happy memories. And if that gorgeous garden bench of yours ends up covered in doodles, just laugh it off. Keep it as part of the ‘family charm’!
A pet garden?
The same logic applies to our furry friends.
With pets, fencing is key. You need to be sure your dog, cat, rabbit – whatever you’ve got – won’t make a break for it. (Some owners swear their pets would never run off, but I’m convinced they’d all make a dash given half the chance.)
Most pets love a bit of greenery, and like kids, they’re safest around non-toxic plants. Good choices include rosemary, marigolds, and thyme.
Plants to avoid? Steer clear of lilies, daffodils, and ivy !! they can be dangerous for pets.
If you’ve got a dog that loves to dig, save your flower beds and create a designated digging spot instead. Bury a toy or a treat and let them sniff it out ! they’ll love it, I promise!
For pets that stay outside, make sure they’ve got shady spots to cool off in summer and a cosy shelter for winter.
Oh, and did I mention fences?
DON’T FORGET THE FENCES!
Mix all this in with a cracking fire pit, some lovely lighting, comfy seating, and a touch of wildlife, and you’ve got a garden that’s more than just a pretty space – it’s a place to enjoy, for you, the kids, and the pets.
So don’t let your garden go to waste – make the most of it!
