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Design Dilemma DIY Gardens

Ideas to rectify a concreted garden

2 years ago

Hi, I wonder if this was your garden what you would do with it. I could do with some simple, preferably low cost ideas to make it look a bit better. I'm not expecting a miracle. I was thinking about maybe decking but then there's the manhole that would need to be accessed. Maybe gravel to make it a bit more level? Tile it? Any ideas welcome. Thanks for looking.

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Comments (4)

rinked
2 years ago
If you're up for it, I'd say remove and get some new concrete in, with simpler steps to shed and kitchen, rest of patio somewhat level to manhole.
Sonia
2 years ago
I would break up the concrete and add a new patio. It could be paving or poured concrete. If breaking up the concrete is too much effort then it may be possible to lay decking over it. My only worry is it is so uneven this may be difficult. Decking does not last forever, my lasted 8 years, but it may do for a while. Gravel is cheap but I think it is difficult to walk on and the garden furniture will sink in it. You could add a hatch in the decking to give you access to the drain.
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Fabulous view! I think you are right to prioritise your children (and dog!) as they do need to let off steam. Your idea of moving all the bins etc over to one side is a good idea. You can then put up some fencing to screen it out of view, but leave access of course. The concrete area is a bit of an eye sore (hope I’m not offending you!). If you have the budget, I would get the concrete broken up and then lay attractive slabs, using the broken concrete as a hardcore base. Sandstone is most attractive and creates a lovely natural effect and it’s not too pricey. Porcelain is becoming very popular for patios and gives a more modern look. You may need a landscaper if you want it done well. That would be a great place to sit out. What aspect does the garden face? This will determine where you place seating areas and planting. if it is sunny where your planters are, then herbs and lavender will do very well. Peonies are not keen on being moved, but I’ve done it and as long as they are watered in well they should be fine. A pergola is a great idea. Choose a sunny spot ( you will use it more). Wisteria are big strong heavy plants so a pergola would be a good sturdy support. Some plants cope better with children and dogs than others, and of course aspect is crucial. Some plants need a good burst of sun, whilst others would wilt and need shadier spots. I am no designer, but I think if, to start, you created planting beds all around your perimeters, say 1m wide, remove the grass, dig in several bags of compost, there you need the right plants in the right place to succeed. That way the middle of the garden can be used by the children and dog. Below are some ideas, and I am happy to suggest plants once I know which parts of the garden are sunny or shady.
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Richard L
2 years ago
Pots - lots of pots/planters, all sizes... ceramic, plastic, doesn't matter just slowly build in from the sides and let the green take over.

It might put off the lift the concrete job... maybe indefintely?

The area with square slabs under the table looks like you might be able to remove it piece by peice and slowly turn it green?
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Eliza Gray Gardens
2 years ago
Definitely green it up!

On the side return, move the trampoline away from the fence and plant a tree behind it to give privacy,

In the rear, make big timber sleeper beds around the seating area as they will need less watering and can take taller trees and shrubs. Vertical accents will help too - pergola with clematis and evergreen jasmine would look great,

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