I’m a gardening expert – my tips will make your cluttered patio look miles bigger, but avoid the common ‘zoning’ mistake

DO you dream of having a spacious-looking garden as yours looks small and cluttered?

A gardening expert has shared their top tips to making your outdoor space look miles bigger.

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There are some easy ways to make your garden feel bigger[/caption]

Leigh Barnes, gardening pro at Jacksons Fencing, has shared the five mistakes to avoid in your garden this summer…

1. Neglecting vertical space

Many small garden owners overlook the potential of vertical space. 

Instead, utilise walls, fences, and trellises to create living garden walls. 

This not only utilises every surface in the garden but also adds depth to your outdoor space.

Invest in climbing plants and provide support with trellises or fence panels to maximise vertical growth and create a visually appealing green screen.

2. Lack of Garden Zoning

Failure to divide your garden into sections can make it feel cluttered and small. 

Consider adding levels, like raised decking areas, to create the illusion of more space while providing functional storage solutions. 

Create distinct areas within your garden, each with its own purpose and decor, to make the space feel larger and more organised.

3. Ignoring Lines and Shapes

Pay attention to the layout of your garden features, such as paving slabs and fencing. 

The strategic placement of these elements can visually elongate the space, making it appear larger. 

Install decking boards and fencing that lead the eye along the length of the garden, creating the illusion of spaciousness.

4. Opting for Dark and Bulky

Dark-coloured plants, bulky furniture, and heavy decor can make a small garden feel cramped. 

Instead, opt for lighter-coloured plants and furniture to create a brighter and more open atmosphere. 

Use lighter paint colours for garden walls to reflect light and create a sense of airiness. 

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Divide your garden into sections to make it feel more spacious[/caption]

If possible, create built in furniture such as benches that double up as raised beds to utilise space and maximise functionality.

5. Lack of Natural Light

Ensure your garden receives ample natural light by trimming trees and opting for fencing that allows sunlight to filter through.

 Venetian fencing, with its horizontal pales, can provide both privacy and sunlight, making your garden feel more spacious.