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One question I get asked frequently on this site is, ‘Why is garden design expensive?’ and my answer is that garden design isn’t expensive; it’s good value for money given the vast multidisciplinary skills that go into making a successful garden design. Garden designers should not be cheap. Combining plant knowledge, design skills, project management, […]

Updated 2025: You’re ready to get stuck in to create your dream new build garden oasis. You have this brand-new green space that could become something amazing. It may look very similar to the new build example below. Then it hits you. You have no idea where to start, and every idea you have doesn’t […]

Sometimes gardeners can get a bit triggert happy when ti comes to pruning trees, especially in winter when ther true shape of the tree is laid bare. However, did you know that cherry, plum and apricot trees, (any in the prunus genus) shouldn’t be pruned in winter due to them contracting a fungus called silver […]

Living Christmas trees have long symbolized life, renewal, and resilience, not to mention yuletide cheer! Often accompanied by mince pies, presents and celebrations, the Christmas tree signifies that Christmas is here! Their evergreen foliage represents ‘eternal life’ dating back to ancient European traditions, where people adorned their homes with greenery during winter solstice festivals. All […]

While the frost may nip at your fingers, there are plenty of winter flowering plants that thrive in the chill, bringing vibrant colours, delightful fragrances, and even attracting pollinators to your outdoor space. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting your journey, winter-flowering plants are a fantastic way to keep your garden lively and […]

Garden design is both an art and a science, blending creativity with practicality to create outdoor spaces that are beautiful, functional, and sustainable with a strong focus on the right plant choices and hard-landscaping materials. However, learning the ins and outs of garden design can feel daunting—especially if you’re new to plants/horticulture, drawing up scaled […]

A water rill is a narrow, shallow channel that directs water through a garden, creating a dynamic visual and sensory feature. Originating from ancient irrigation systems, modern water rills have evolved into elegant landscape elements, blending function with aesthetic appeal. They can add both drama and movement to any garden. The beauty of garden rills […]

Garden Ninja recently visited one of the finest examples of Chinese gardens, the Nan Lian Garden in Hong Kong. Set in the busy and sprawling Kowloon district, it is a welcome relief from the excitement and exhaustion of the city. The gardens spread over 3.4 hectares and opened in 2006, though walking around them you […]

Designing a garden is an exciting journey that can transform any outdoor space into a lush, inviting sanctuary. However, creating a functional and beautiful garden can be challenging, particularly if you’re new to gardening or have specific goals in mind. This is where garden design templates, planting plans, and layouts of existing garden designs can […]

Gardening can be a deeply rewarding hobby, allowing you to reconnect with nature and find mindfulness in our often frantic lives. However, no matter how carefully we garden, our plants sometimes start to look sick. Plant diseases are a common challenge for all gardeners, no matter their experience level. They can be caused by fungi, […]