Garden Ideas on a Budget

Are you looking for creative garden ideas on a budget?

At Ronseal, we're passionate that you don’t need to have a huge budget to get a gorgeous outdoor space. With the right planning and materials, you can transform your garden into something truly special without breaking the bank.

Garden design ideas on a budget

Here are 18 great garden design ideas on a budget that will help you make the most of your exterior space:

 

1. Create an outdoor area with decking

Decking is a great way to create an attractive seating area in your garden and can be built on even quite limited budgets. To find out more on how to lay decking, take a look at our handy guide or view our decking ideas for inspiration.

 

2. Plant up containers

Use pots and planters to add colour and texture to any small corner of your garden; they look equally as good lining pathways and sitting on top of the decking. They're also a great option if you're looking for a low-maintenance garden.

 

3. Install a water feature

A tasteful water feature can be the perfect complement to your garden, providing an intriguing visual and soothing soundscape without spending too much.

 

4. Build raised beds

Raised garden beds are the perfect addition to any green space as they create a sturdy, organised structure with plenty of soil depth for deep-rooted plants.

 

5. Paint it up

Breathe new life into your garden fence and other items you already have in your garden using Ronseal Garden Paint. You can also create interesting patterns on your walls and fences to add a new design element to your exterior space.

 

6. Install outdoor lighting

Fairy lights are a great low-budget option for adding atmosphere and can be used to light up pathways or highlight features of your garden such as planting or seating areas.

 

7. Incorporate seating

Furnishing your garden with seating is an ideal way to foster a sense of togetherness and enjoy the outdoors. If you already have garden furniture, why not try upcycling it? Not only does it save money but it can also give you the opportunity to get creative and expand your DIY skills.

 

8. Create a wildlife area

Creating areas of your garden that are attractive to wildlife encourages more biodiversity in your outdoor space. Building a birdbox, for example, is relatively easy; all you need are a few tools and Ronseal Garden Paint. Take a look at the tutorial for creating a birdbox for a full step-by-step breakdown.

 

9. Plant a herb garden

For a small outlay, you can cultivate a herb garden both indoors and outdoors to provide delicious herbs that are ready for your kitchen all year round.

 

10. Consider vertical gardening

Vertical gardening is an excellent way to maximise your small outdoor space. Think about incorporating vertical elements into your garden like trellises and hanging baskets for climbing plants or wall planters for adding greenery to blank walls.

 

11. Use stepping stones

Stepping stones are a great way to link sections of the garden and make it more accessible without having to create dedicated zones with large pieces of furniture or decoration.

 

12. Make use of natural elements

Utilising natural elements in your outdoor space can help you create a tranquil environment. You could use organic materials such as rocks and driftwood to make up striking decorative pieces that will add texture and interest to your space.

 

13. Recycle rainwater

Use barrels or tanks to collect rainwater and use it when watering your garden during dry spells; this is an excellent way of saving you money on water bills as well as being kinder to the environment.

 

14. Build an outdoor kitchen

If you have a bit of space and the tools, you could build an outdoor kitchen to make your garden even more inviting. For simple outdoor kitchen ideas, please check out our post for inspiration.

 

15. Plant up window boxes

Window boxes are a great way of adding colour and texture to any space they look equally as good on balconies or patios as well as window sills.

 

16. Use native plants

Native plants can reduce maintenance costs as they tend to be more robust than exotic varieties, making them perfect for gardens on a budget.

 

17. Install a mini-greenhouse

A mini-greenhouse will help you to start off more delicate plants and can provide shelter for some of your favorite perennials.

 

18. Grow your own fruit and veg

Cultivating your own fruits and vegetables is an excellent way to reduce grocery expenses while also enjoying delectable, fresh food!

Gardening on a budget doesn’t mean having to compromise on quality or design; there are plenty of options available that will allow you to make the most of what’s available without breaking the bank. For even more inspiration on creating a low-maintenance garden, head over to our low-maintenance garden ideas. And don't forget, Ronseal Garden Paint is the perfect way to turn your ideas into reality.