A garden makeover is an exciting project, but deciding where to spend your budget can sometimes be difficult. There are plenty of options to consider, from new fencing and artificial grass to patios, planting and outdoor structures. The key is knowing which areas are worth investing in and where you can make a big difference without overspending.
At DH Landscapes, we work with homeowners across Taunton and Somerset on everything from smaller garden improvements to complete transformations. In our experience, the best results come from prioritising the foundations of the garden first, before moving on to the finishing touches.
Start with the Groundwork
It might not be the most exciting part of a garden transformation, but good groundwork is one of the most important investments you can make.
Whether you’re installing artificial grass, paving or another hard surface, the area needs to be properly prepared beforehand. Poor preparation can lead to movement, uneven surfaces and drainage problems further down the line.
Here in Somerset, where gardens can experience plenty of heavy rain, drainage is particularly important. Investing in proper excavation, sub-bases and drainage from the start can help prevent problems and ensure your new landscaping performs as it should.
Invest in Quality Fencing
Fencing can completely change the appearance of a garden while also providing privacy and security. If your existing boundary is tired, damaged or nearing the end of its life, it’s often worth making this one of the priorities in your garden makeover.
Choosing a cheaper fence might save money initially, but quality materials can provide better durability and a longer lifespan.
At DH Landscapes, we’re proud to be Jacksons Fencing Approved Installers. Jacksons specialises in premium, long-life fencing systems, giving homeowners an option for those looking for quality and longevity rather than simply choosing the cheapest product available.
Spend Wisely on Paving
A new patio can become one of the main features of a garden, providing somewhere to sit, dine and entertain.
When choosing paving, consider how much of the garden you actually need to dedicate to hard landscaping. A well-designed patio doesn’t necessarily need to take up the majority of the garden. The right size and layout can provide plenty of usable space while leaving room for planting or artificial grass.
It’s also worth investing in good-quality paving and professional installation. The finished appearance depends not just on the slabs themselves, but on the preparation, levels, drainage and jointing underneath and between them.
Consider Artificial Grass
If you’re looking to create a low-maintenance garden, artificial grass can be a worthwhile investment.
Natural lawns require regular mowing and can become muddy or worn during periods of heavy rain. Artificial grass provides a green, usable surface throughout the year with considerably less ongoing maintenance.
It’s particularly useful for busy households, families and homeowners who would rather spend their weekends enjoying their garden rather than maintaining it. As a Diamond Artificial Grass Approved Installer, DH Landscapes can help you choose an artificial lawn suited to your garden and install it with the correct preparation underneath.
Don’t Forget Planting
Planting can make a huge difference to the overall appearance of a garden without necessarily requiring a huge proportion of your budget.
Raised planters, shrubs, ornamental grasses and carefully selected plants can add colour, texture and structure. They can also help soften hard landscaping and make a newly transformed garden feel more established.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance garden, choose planting carefully. A well-planned selection of hardy, low-maintenance plants can provide plenty of interest without creating a garden that requires constant attention.
Think About How You’ll Use the Garden
Before spending money on individual features, think about how you actually want to use the space.
Do you want somewhere for outdoor dining? A safe area for children to play? A quiet seating area? Space for a BBQ or outdoor kitchen?
Once you’ve established how you want to use the garden, it’s much easier to decide where your budget should go. Creating different zones can also make a garden feel larger and more functional without necessarily requiring more materials.
Consider Garden Structures
For homeowners looking to make their garden more usable throughout the year, structures such as pergolas can be a worthwhile addition.
A pergola can provide shade during hot weather and help define an outdoor seating or entertaining area. They can also add a strong visual feature to the garden and create a natural transition between the house and the rest of the outdoor space.
If your budget is limited, however, it’s generally worth getting the fundamental landscaping right before adding larger decorative features.
Don’t Always Choose the Cheapest Option
When you’re working to a budget, it’s natural to look for ways to save money. However, choosing the cheapest materials or cutting corners with installation can sometimes prove more expensive in the long run.
A garden is exposed to the elements all year round. Rain, frost, strong winds and periods of intense sunshine can all take their toll on poor-quality materials and inadequate installations.
Spending more on the areas that matter, particularly groundwork, drainage, fencing and the main surfaces, can help create a garden that’s built to last.
Get the Right Balance
A successful garden makeover doesn’t necessarily mean spending a huge amount of money. It’s about prioritising the features that will make the biggest difference to how you use the space.
For some homeowners, that might mean investing in artificial grass and fencing to create a low-maintenance garden. For others, a new patio and entertaining area might be the priority.
The important thing is to create a design that works as a whole rather than spending your entire budget on one feature and leaving the rest of the garden unfinished.
Planning a Garden Transformation in Taunton?
At DH Landscapes, we help homeowners across Taunton and Somerset turn tired or underused gardens into practical, attractive outdoor spaces.
With over 15 years of experience and more than 30 five-star reviews, we can help with everything from fencing and artificial grass to patios, groundwork and complete garden makeovers.
If you’re planning a garden makeover in Taunton and aren’t sure where to spend your budget, get in touch with DH Landscapes for a free, no-obligation quote. We can discuss your ideas, your priorities and the best way to make the most of your outdoor space.
