Although small garden can be frustrating for eager gardeners, but as with most things in life, small can also be beautiful. Clever tricks and some careful planning can help you make the most of your outside space, no matter how tiny it may be. Here are a few principles to keep in mind when gardening in a small space.

Make use of your garden's height

What many gardens lack in width, they often make up for in height. Open shelves occupy a small footprint but enable you to display many plants at different heights. For a more quirky look, you could even use a vintage wooden stepladder for a similar effect.

If you are lucky enough to have trees in your garden, try training climbers up their trunks. A climbing rose or clematis will add another layer of colour and interest without taking up any additional space.

Clever planting

The golden rule when planting in a small space is to make every part of your garden work as hard as possible. When planting spring bulbs, try layering tulips, daffodils, and iris in the same area to create a display that will last for the whole season.

Evergreens provide structure, colour and interest all year round, so make a wise choice when you are pushed for room. Try to disperse them evenly around your garden, preferably in positions that can help disguise sheds, buildings, and other eyesores.

Fool the eye with mirrors

Nestling vintage mirrors amongst your plants serves the dual purpose of tricking the eye into thinking the area is larger than it is, as well as adding a romantic, whimsical vibe to your garden. They also provide an extra focal point without taking up much valuable space.

Utilise your surfaces

With the right tools and materials, just about every surface in your garden can become home to a plant. Potted plants can be positioned on windowsills, shed roofs, and tables and chairs. There are even plant pots available for attaching to fences, walls, and downpipes, ideal for disguising ugly buildings and softening any sharp edges.

Choose heavily scented varieties

Filling the air with beautiful scent can help give the impression that your garden contains more plants than it actually does. Just one heavily-scented rose can give your garden a lovely aroma, and positioning a lavender plant close to the door will give a relaxing fragrance every time you brush past.

Get creative

Even in a small garden, replacing annuals year after year can start to get expensive. Investing in a few garden sculptures or simply placing large urns amongst the foliage means that your garden will never be without form, height and year-round interest. When the plants around it die back they can either be replaced, or the space left clear to appreciate your work of art.

With some careful planning and by making the most of what you've got, it is possible to turn even the smallest of gardens into a sanctuary. Whether you have a small yard, a roof terrace or even just a balcony, by following some simple rules you can create a relaxing space that really punches above its weight. Last of all, remember that the silver lining of a small garden is that it is easier to maintain so you space can always be kept looking its best.

Thanks to Homebase for the image