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Creating a Border

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Creating a Border

Planting a new border can really improve your garden. It is interesting to watch new plants grow and develop, and borders can also be useful to hide eyesores and add interest and colour.

Time to complete job: 4 - 5 hours
Approximate budget: £40

You will need:

Spade
Trowel
Organic matter
Grit
Fertiliser
Mulch

Tip: When planning a new border, consider whether it will be in sun or shade, whether the soil is acid or alkaline, whether the drainage needs improving and how much work you are prepared to spend maintaining the border. These will determine the types of plants you choose. If you pick trees and shrubs, for example, they will cost more but take less maintenance. Herbaceous perennials are higher maintenance but higher return.
For planting advice, see Planting Tips.

Click to enlarge

Step 1: Mark out the shape

Decide the position and shape of your border. Don't make your border too narrow - a wide plot will be easier to maintain and look far better. Gentle curves work best as they're easier to mow and edge properly. An elongated shape works well rather than a long strip and allows room for different-sized plants.
Use a long hosepipe to mark out the shape of your border - it's easy to adjust until you achieve a pleasing shape. If cutting out of grass, the edge is bound to be damaged so leave a few inches to trim back later.
If you have already purchased plants, spread them out and imagine them at their ultimate size. Rearrange and adjust your border shape if necessary. Keep in mind when they flower, what they will look like in winter and how big they will get.

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