A renovation project is a big undertaking and while it is exciting, it can have a negative impact on your outdoor spaces. Lawns can become damaged from vehicles, contractors and boxes of materials, plants can become ripped out or die from lack of sunlight, and layouts can be destroyed by new additions. But if you’re going to the effort of updating your home, you don’t want it to be let down by the outside. Luckily, there are ways to refresh and restore your garden so it looks better than before and complements your new interiors perfectly.
Image above by Mayza, garden designer in Richmond. Click here to see her full profile and shortlist her for your project.
Assess the damage
Home improvements can considerably disrupt your garden, whether it’s through displaced plants, damaged roots, or changes to sunlight as well as shade patterns if you’ve extended the property. Walk through your garden and identify any plants that have been harmed or buried under debris. Some plants might be salvageable with proper care, while others may need replacing. Take note of any changes in drainage and soil conditions, as these will affect how you restore your garden. By understanding the extent of the damage, you can create a solid plan for bringing your outdoor space back to life.
Replace topsoil to nourish beds
Construction often depletes soil nutrients and compacts the ground, making it difficult for plants to grow—not to mention looking unsightly. To restore the health of your soil, start by loosening compacted areas with a rake or garden fork, then add organic matter like compost, manure, or mulch which will help to replenish essential nutrients and improve the soil structure. If the renovation involved heavy materials like cement or paint, you might also consider testing your soil’s pH balance and toxicity to ensure it’s still a healthy growing environment.
Reseed damaged grass
Lawns are one of the most affected areas when a renovation is taking place, but if the damage isn’t too extensive, there is a chance you can salvage it. The top layer of the grass might be all that’s dead, so carefully remove the top layer (especially any areas that have imprints from tire tracks or where equipment has been sitting) and then add fresh topsoil to level out the ground.
Once everything is level and in place, sprinkle grass seed over the soil and rake it through to lightly cover the seeds. Water thoroughly and then let your lawn re-establish itself. It might take a few weeks for the seeds to root, but once they do, all that’s needed is light and time and you’ll be left with a luscious lawn once again.
Don’t neglect irrigation
A hydrated and well drained garden is important to ensure you’re not faced with a swamp by the end of the year. Renovation projects can alter the way water flows through the garden, which can lead to pooling in some areas and dry spots in others. The solution is to add irrigation in the form of rain gardens that redirect excess water, gravel beds, and installing French drains which direct water away via a gravel or rock filled trench. A well-planned irrigation system will keep your garden hydrated and healthy with minimal effort.
Plan your garden layout
Take advantage of any new structures or spaces you have to work with after the renovation to create a new layout. If you’ve renovated your home in the hope of boosting your profits, a well-planned garden layout can help you attract a fast buyer. Consider how any new structures, such as patios, pergolas, or fences, affect the look and feel of your outdoor area and what you might like to use your garden for.
The addition of a new conservatory to the back of your house, for example, may benefit from you incorporating flowers and shrubs to add colour and interest to your view. A new decking area or a patio may suit a minimalist design, with potted plants seamlessly integrating with your renovated home.
Replace thoughtfully
When you are ready to plan your space don’t start adding flowers and trees without thinking about what will thrive in your space. If some plants were uprooted during the renovation, try replanting them in nutrient-rich soil to help them recover, making sure they’re getting enough light to give them the best chance of survival. Post-renovation is a great opportunity to rethink what you like and dislike about the plants in your garden—you can rearrange your layout or start from scratch with vertical gardening, container planting, or hanging baskets to add texture and height.
Add finishing touches
With your garden on the road to recovery, consider adding decorative elements to enhance its appeal. Pathways, stepping stones, or wooden decking can define spaces and create a structured look, while outdoor furniture, garden lighting, and planters can transform your garden into a relaxing retreat. These finishing touches not only beautify your garden but also make it a more enjoyable space for you and your guests.
Restoring your garden is the final step in home renovation plans and takes consistent effort to maintain a thriving and beautiful space year-round. Set a schedule for watering and weeding, and add nourishment in the summer with fertilisers to keep your plants growing and healthy. If you can, try to also keep an eye out for pests and diseases as the earlier you treat the easier it will be to prevent widespread damage across the entire garden. A proactive approach will reward you with a vibrant and healthy green outdoor space that complements your newly renovated home.
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