BBC presenter and four-time RHS medal winner James Wong has climbed to the peak of the garden industry – whilst picking up a host of tips and tricks along the way. However, his most latest tip may be his most versatile to date.
In an exclusive interview with H&G, James explained his small garden ideas – and shared techniques that will work in urban and country gardens alike. And his solution is refreshingly simple.
1. Small garden? Choose large plants
‘One of the most important things with small spaces is to not feel like you can only fill them with small plants,’ James begins. Instead, he suggests choosing a select number of large statement plants that will demand attention in your garden.
'People often think that small spaces mean small plants, but it makes them feel more cluttered. Large plants are much better,’ he adds. However, James Wong’s tips on how to make a small garden feel bigger stretch beyond his large plant technique.
2. Hang strategically placed mirrors
The size-enhancing benefits of decorating with mirrors are already a favorite amongst interior designers – but now experts are reflecting their power beyond our four walls.
‘If you have, for example, a small courtyard garden, you can use a mirror to create – what looks like – a window,’ James says.
Plus, the Chelsea Flower Show winner not only suggests using mirrors to design a window but to create the illusion of a separate room too.
‘If you have an archway or another structure, and you put your mirror at an angle and put your plant in front of it – it tricks your eye into thinking there is another room next to the garden,’ he says.
However, before you invest in a looking glass, James reminds you to treat outdoor mirrors with caution to prevent bird injuries. ‘I wouldn’t use them in a big open space near a bird feeder,’ he adds.
3. Blur boundaries with tropical plants
Following his mirror tip, James shared another secret that will improve the size of your garden and add a vibrant injection of color.
‘In using mirrors, you can see yourself, so you should try to break up the outline of that by using large tropical plants,’ James says. ‘If you break up the outline of a boundary, then it disappears.’
He explains this by suggesting that you should use trellis ideas to add a climber to your wall before placing a big plant in front of the greenery. ‘The wall suddenly melts away. It gives it a green, almost fizzy backdrop with a big plant in front of it – and it blurs it,’ James suggests.
Plus, after discussing the best trees for a small garden, James has teamed up with TheJoyOfPlants.co.uk to explore the benefits of biophilic design, but in the garden and inside your home. More information is available via their website.
-
Salvador Dalí's '60s terrace embodies the Spanish landscapes that inspired a generation of modern artists – now, Mediterranean gardens are trending againArchival images of the surrealist painter's terrace show the cypress trees, olives, and limestone that exemplify the Costa Brava – it will never go out of style
-
This fruity twist on bruschetta will be a hit with kids and grown-ups alike and is so easy to throw togetherThis apple toast with ricotta, warm apple compote and crispy sage is sweet, creamy and crunchy - prep in advance to assemble on the day
-
Outdoor mirror ideas – 5 expert ways to open up your yardDiscover 5 expert ways to use mirrors to open up your outdoor space
-
Small patio ideas – 10 effortless ways to make the most of a compact spaceThese gorgeous designer-led ideas will refresh any small patio and give it a new sense of purpose
-
Garden gate ideas – 15 ways to make a strong first impressionDiscover the best garden gate ideas to boost your home's curb appeal, enhance the garden, and improve security
-
Trellis ideas – 17 beautiful ways to add vertical interestDiscover the best trellis ideas to grow a variety of climbing plants against your garden walls and fences
-
Garden decorating ideas – 24 ways to update your backyardUse these garden decorating ideas to breathe new life into your yard and create the perfect space for summer relaxation
-
Small backyard ideas – 15 beautiful designs for tiny gardensThese clever small backyard ideas will offer inspiration if you are keen to create an abundant garden out of a small space
-
Country garden ideas – 31 ways planting and landscaping can reflect a rural settingPaths, ponds, roses and lawns – discover the best country garden ideas with our expert advice
-
Pool lighting ideas – 10 ways to design pool lightingThese pool lighting ideas will help you to illuminate your pool area and transform it into a glittering feature at night time
