Spending time outdoors can do wonders for our wellbeing, especially when we have a garden to enjoy. But after months of wind, rain - or just busy schedules - your outdoor space may be crying out for some attention.
Whether your garden feels overgrown, uninspiring, or just too much to manage, there are simple ways to bring it back to life without taking on a second job. The goal? A space that’s easy to care for and a joy to spend time in.
Here are three easy ways to create a beautiful, manageable garden that works for you all year round.
1. Understand your space
Before picking up a trowel, take a moment to really look at your garden. Walk the space, sketch it out, or even take photos. What areas get the most sun? Which parts feel unused? Understanding your garden’s layout is the first step to designing a space that’s easier to maintain, and more enjoyable to use.
Try breaking it into zones, such as:
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A seating area for relaxing or entertaining
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A wildlife-friendly patch with wildflowers and bird feeders
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A space for herbs or potted plants near the kitchen
Too much lawn? If mowing feels like a chore, you have options:
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Replace all or part of the lawn with decking or a patio (great for entertaining and easier to keep tidy).
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Consider artificial grass for year-round greenery without the mowing, fertilising or muddy patches.
Want to make your outdoor space more sociable? Discover tips for creating an evening garden retreat.
2. Get creative with your plants
Low-maintenance doesn’t mean low on colour or creativity. There are plenty of easy-care plants that thrive with minimal attention. Try:
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Ox-eye daisies
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Red campion
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Lavender (which also helps keep bugs away!)
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Betony
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Ornamental grasses
These plants attract pollinators, love the sun, and bring movement and colour to your garden - all without demanding hours of pruning or watering.
Container planting can also help you keep things tidy and under control. But keep in mind: more pots = more watering. Choose larger containers to reduce maintenance, and group them together for visual impact.
Bonus tip: Opt for seasonal plants that suit your climate - they’ll naturally thrive with less effort.
3. Simplify your flower beds
Love the look of flower beds but hate the upkeep? A few clever choices can cut your weeding and watering time dramatically.
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Use mulch – It keeps weeds at bay, locks in moisture, and even improves soil health. Plus, mulch comes in different colours and textures, so it can enhance your garden’s look too.
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Plant shrubs or hedges – These reduce the number of beds you need to maintain and create structure in your garden. Some - like lavender or evergreen hedges - smell great and offer year-round interest with minimal effort.
A few structural plants or flowering bushes around the edges of your garden can make the space feel more enclosed and easier to manage, especially if your plot feels overwhelming.
What if it's all just too much?
Even with low-maintenance ideas, some gardens simply become more than we can comfortably manage, especially if other parts of the home also need regular upkeep.
You might be wondering if a smaller, more manageable home and garden is the better option. Downsizing doesn’t mean compromising. In fact, it could be the beginning of a more relaxed, fulfilling chapter.
If you’re over 60 and considering a move, Homewise could help.
Thinking About Moving?
At Homewise, we help people over 60 boost their home-buying budget with our Home for Life Plan. With the Home for Life Plan, you could:
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Secure your next Home for Life with no rent or mortgage payments
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Move to a home with lower running costs
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Free up money to enjoy retirement or help family
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Settle closer to loved ones or better amenities
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Clear existing debts or create future savings
You can choose from nearly any property in England or Wales that's listed with an estate agent. Whether you're dreaming of a low-upkeep garden, a bungalow by the sea, or simply a smaller home that feels more manageable - our team is here to help.
Ready to see what’s possible? Try our free online calculator to discover how much a Home for Life Plan could boost your budget by!