There are many who rent, live in cities or just do not have available space to garden or create a backyard oasis garden area. But even if you have only a small patch of soil available or a deck area you can create a private small space garden for escaping from the world.
Start by looking at the area you have and analyze the space. Do you have gardening soil space or will you plant in containers? If you add a fence you will be able to create more privacy in the yard or patio area and use them for climbing plants or to hang planters on. Hanging baskets will also make use of available space on patios, decks and near the house.
A cottage garden design works well in a small space garden. It has a casual look and the plants tumble and seem to ramble about adding color and fragrance to the entire yard. If you look carefully at most cottage gardens they are a mix of perennials, annuals and vegetables mixed in between cute fences and garden sculpture. But don’t let the wild look of a cottage garden fool you. It was well planned out to get the most use of every inch of space, even in those wandering pathways, door entries and barren garage areas.
Old-fashioned perennials are a must for the main plants in small garden design. Azaleas, classic roses, lilies, peonies, nicotiana, stock, and lavender give the small backyard garden a base to work with. Add additional plants and flowers to fill the design and look out. Annual flowers work well to fill in any gaps or holes between plants.
Arbors and trellises are perfect for climbing roses; flowering vines, hanging baskets and birdhouses or bird feeders. Many people overlook the advantages of growing upward. Wire structures work well for this along with adding a trellis for additional climbing space. Flowering vines and many vegetables will thrive growing vertical. And if you have room you can add a few ornamental trees or fruit trees. Many of these trees will grow in containers and can be moved indoors in the winter if you live in a colder area.
The smallest cottage garden I saw was created along a very barren garage and pathway to the house. There may have been a 4-foot deep area to work with and possibly 15 foot long. A path had to be kept open for traffic. By including the mini deck area and entry along with the pathway they created a beautiful secret garden retreat for relaxing.
In your final planting remember to plant taller plants in the back of flowerbeds and shorter plants in front. And as your garden design winds down make sure you have included a small place to sit and relax. Even if its one chair or a bench you need to be able to sit and enjoy the garden oasis you have created in your small space garden.