It can be tricky to know how to style compact outdoor spaces and small gardens. You want to make the most of the space you do have, without it looking overly cluttered.

It’s a fine line to toe, whether you have a balcony style garden, a small courtyard, or a compact green space.

If you’re struggling and even considering moving house to get more garden space for the summer months, we’re here to help. Well us, and the experts at the UK’s leading garden centre, Dobbies.

Give your compact garden maximum impact and make the most out of the space with these top tips.

A clutter-free zone

Just because your garden is small, doesn’t mean everything in it has to be too.

One very large pot will add more impact than lots of small ones because it will stop the space feeling cluttered. A bigger pot will also house more plants, so you can mix and match with flowers and herbs that complement each other and your overall colour scheme.

Colour it in

One of the most cost-effective ways to instantly transform a space is to paint the fence. Neutral colours like whites or creams will lift a dull area and create a sense of space. Perfect for shady gardens, plants and flowers will pop against a white backdrop. If you have a south-facing plot, avoid using bright white shades as it will be blinding.

If you want your outdoor space to be somewhere in your home you can have a little more fun and experiment with colour, a small garden doesn’t mean you can’t do this, but stick to a colour theme to avoid it looking busy. Bright colours will give an invigorating, party feel.

Seeing double

Hang garden mirrors to create the illusion of space, they are a great way to create a focal point and make the overall space feel bigger. 

Use one large mirror against a backwall or fence, or place smaller mirrors in clever spots, such behind a flower bed – the mirror image tricks the mind into thinking that there is more of the garden to see, effectively doubling the amount of blooms on display!

Grow up

Making use of vertical space is the best way to expand a small outdoor space and add another dimension and layer of interest. Save on ground space by planting up.

If you want to fill gardens with colour without cluttering up patios or decking, hanging baskets are the perfect solution.

Match your plants colour theme for a display with impact and place them near the house by the backdoor or use multiple baskets and place along the side of fences.

Space-saving trees

Small trees are perfect for tight spaces and they can help to create privacy if your garden is overlooked.

One of the best space-saving trees is an Espalier fruit tree. Planted flat against a wall or fence, they not only look stylish and produce delicious fruit, but are also easy to maintain once planned. You will be rewarded with blossom in spring, followed by tasty fruit from August to October.

Water Features

Adding water to your garden can be a beautiful way to bring ambience to the space.

A small water feature won’t take up a lot of room in your compact garden, but it will ramp up the potential and bring more wildlife.

It will also engage your senses making for a relaxing experience within.

• Cascading Bowl Water Feature, £275 from Cox & Cox – buy here

Combine seating and storage

Save on space and keep your garden clutter-free with seating that doubles up as storage.

Ottoman furniture is trending all over the home and especially in gardens where space can be limited. Think garden sofas with under bum storage, outdoor coffee tables with lids and more.

It’s a great way to tick two garden boxes without worrying about space.

• Outsunny Rattan Garden Sofa Set Storage Table Wicker Patio Lounger 4-Seater Grey, £339.99 from B&Q – buy here

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