I’m a TV gardener – my most straightforward way to spruce up your backyard will make it look more expensive on a budget
A GARDENING expert has revealed the simple tricks that make your backyard look expensive without breaking the bank.
Surprisingly, his top tip doesn’t involve splurging money on new accessories and features.
Everyone wants their backyard to look Instaworthy when guests visit this summer.
However, renovating it can be expensive if you don’t make the most of what you already have first.
Mark Lane is a presenter on BBC’s Gardeners’ World and an expert at stairlift and home lift company Stannah.
He revealed to The U.S. Sun the secret to making your garden look expensive on a budget.
INSIDE OUT
Lane said backyard upgrades should be kept “simple” and take inspiration from themes already inside your home.
“Look at your interior colors and style and match them outside for a seamless look and feel,” he said.
“Choose only one or two colors maximum and use this palette for paving, decking, pots, containers, furniture, and soft furnishings.”
The tip reiterates advice given by interior designer Houna Bech.
She said repeating color palettes “elevates the entire experience."
She suggested bringing the natural oak wood from her interior flooring out to the deck.
REJUVENATE
Lane said backyards can be given a new lease of life by simply cleaning grime and repainting items as needed.
“Sometimes, giving your garden a spruce up is the most straightforward approach," he said.
"Jet wash paving and decking.
“Re-stain wooden furniture and decking.”
Spray paint that can be used on exterior surfaces including wood, plastic, and metal is available for $6.48 on Amazon.
MATCHY-MATCHY
"Perhaps clean and then paint your pots and containers all the same color and introduce some new accent pieces in the same colors, such as candles, lanterns, cushions, and throws,” Lane said.
“Outside cushions can get grubby quite quickly.
Old woolen jumpers make great cushion covers.
Mark Lane
“If you can remove the covers, wash them.
"If not, make new covers from old bedding or any fabric you might have around the house.
“Old woolen jumpers also make great cushion covers – different textures are key for that expensive look.”
PERFECT PLANTS
Lane previously spoke about the importance of companion and sacrificial plants as an organic pest control method.
He said also caring for the soil can help to grow “resilient” plants that thrive in backyards.
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“Companion plants, such as pot marigolds, attract pests by keeping them off your prized plants,” he said.
“And sacrificial plants, such as lettuces, are planted nearby in the hope that pests will go to them rather than the other plants.”
