Starting a garden from scratch might seem an overwhelming task. But with bold design ideas, pre-planning, and beautiful plants, shrubs and trees, you’ll soon see it flourish.
Here’s how to start planning your dream garden — and when to seek the help of a professional planting planning service.
Where do I begin with planning a garden?
Your garden location is a given, but you can still create magic with the right inspiration and planning.
Start by asking yourself, ‘Who is my garden for?’ Whether you dream of a sophisticated space for entertaining or a do-it-all family space for children and pets to play, your design needs to find the perfect balance between usability and style, while leaving room to expand and experiment.
Next, map out your plot. You can sketch freehand, use graph paper or even break out the spreadsheet. But the essential thing is to use accurate measurements and start small so the task feels achievable.
Our garden planting design service includes a site survey and expert advice on species selection to create your perfect planting scheme.
What factors do I need to consider when planning trees and shrubs?
Trees and shrubs anchor any design, creating a striking focal point and essential structure. Plant the right tree in the right spot, and it’ll thrive, creating a biodiverse environment for birds, butterflies and bees in your outdoor space.
Here’s what you need to consider with your tree planting design:
- How big will the tree or shrub be at maturity? Knowing their final size at the outset avoids the hassle of removing a tree that’s outgrown its space.
- What are the soil conditions? You may need to improve the soil or adjust the pH.
- How much light is there? Trees that love full sun won’t appreciate a shady spot.
- What’s your style? You may need a mix of evergreens and deciduous trees for year-round interest.
- Are they pest or disease-resistant? Avoid disease-prone trees that can infect and harm other plants.
Finding the planning stages daunting? Our tree advice service can help you find the perfect trees and shrubs for your needs.
How do I create a structure for my garden?
Hard landscaping, such as paths and seating areas, forms the skeleton of your garden. Trees are an integral part of green architecture, adding soft structure and balance to your planting scheme.
Shrubs and hedging can be used to create separate zones and planting areas. Topiary gives any garden a strikingly formal look. Create focal points with beautiful native trees that also encourage wildlife and pollination — essential if you’re planning a kitchen garden.
A professional planting designer will assess your plot and choose the perfect trees and shrubs that bring the design together. Contact our garden plant design service on 01277 525150 to find out more.
Do I need planning permission for new trees and shrubs?
Smaller gardens don’t require planning permission, though you may need to get your landlord’s consent if you don’t own the property.
However, for plots over 2 hectares, either in a low-risk or sensitive area, you should contact the Forestry Commission as you may be required to complete an Environmental Impact Assessment.
At Crown Tree Services, we offer a comprehensive tree planting advice service, including navigating ecological surveys and local authority guidelines.
How do I maintain my new garden?
Creating a successful garden is equal parts great tree planting design, soil quality, location and luck. There’s more to it than putting plants in the ground if you want your outdoor space to flourish into the future.
Routine tasks like watering, weeding and pruning will keep your flowers and shrubs healthy and happy. But when it comes to caring for your larger species, you need a tree maintenance plan.
Regular maintenance does more than enhance tree health. It extends a tree’s lifespan, along with all the environmental benefits of soil conservation, wildlife habitats, and carbon sequestration. It’s also essential to prevent hazards such as falling branches and instability.
Our highly trained arborists are on hand for landscape and grounds maintenance, as well as tree services, for both domestic and commercial clients across Essex.
What are the benefits of hiring a professional planting designer?
Working with a professional planting service is a fantastic way to unlock the potential of your garden space.
You may have a strong sense of style but no idea how to achieve your landscaping goals. A garden planting service considers every aspect of your outdoor space, helping you select the perfect trees and shrubs for your soil type, garden orientation, and climate.
How can Crown Tree Services’ tree advice service help?
As tree planting specialists, we cover every aspect of garden design, from selecting the perfect plants to providing care and maintenance. You’ll have peace of mind knowing every specimen is in the ideal place to survive and thrive.
If you require an arboricultural consultant or an Essex tree surgeon for a commercial or residential project, please call us on 01277 525150 or complete our online contact form, and we’ll be delighted to discuss your plans.
Contact Crown Tree Services, your trusted tree planting specialists
Need a hand with planning and planting your outdoor space, but don’t know where to start? Our landscaping services company is waiting for your call.
At Crown Tree Services, we’re your trusted partner in creating and maintaining fabulous gardens brimming with native species and biodiversity. Contact us today to start planning your space.
