This is a collaborative post
It’s about this time of year that most Brits are fed up with the cold, damp winter weather and the dark nights. As we head into Spring, the promise of longer days and warmer is tantalisingly close, and while we can’t be promised the glorious weather of summer 2020, the UK might get a peek of some sunshine instead of showers in the upcoming months.
With this in mind, thoughts inevitably turn to gardens and how you can make the most of your outside space when the sun finally puts its hat on.
But one thing that people can overlook in gardens is adding some shade. Be it to protect little ones or pets from the midday sun, those who work from home can drag the laptop outside and get some fresh air. This post looks at five ways to easily add shade to your garden this year.
Trees
If you have a tree in the garden, it’s probably one of your best assets. Not only because they provide shade and break up the monotony of looking at walls, but also because they filter out pollutants from the air and noise pollution too. But if you don’t have a tree, there are other options available to you that can be just as effective.
One option is to plant a deciduous hedge to provide some shade and protection from the wind. If you don’t want to use hedging, plenty of shrubs offer plenty of cover and texture for the garden, such as laurel or box.
They’re also great for adding height to an area if you want something natural for screening off your neighbour’s extension or something similar. You could also add decking around them or some plants to make it visually appealing.
Gazebo
A great way to add shade is with a gazebo. These come in various shapes and colours and can often be customised to suit your garden.
They offer protection from the sun, rain, wind and the elements. The simple structure often creates a focal point in gardens, as well as being able to accommodate seating arrangements. The gazebo size also means you can make an outdoor retreat with some privacy – perfect for catching up on sleep or just reading a book!
Awnings
Awnings are the most cost-effective way to add shade to your garden; they can be custom made in any size and length and come in various colours. A good awning will provide some protection from sunlight and offer rain protection if needed. Typically Awnings are a permanent feature for your home and need fixing to an exterior wall that can support the added structure and weight.
Parasols
One of the cheapest ways to add shade to your garden is with a parasol. You can buy these for as little as 10 pounds, and they are effortless to put up, with most being able to be erected in less than a minute. The only downside of these is that you’ll need to take it down when it rains, and some people find that they blow away in strong winds.
Pergolas
If you have a garden, there is a good chance that you will have a patio or at least some paving. A great way to add the space is with a pergola, which will provide shade on those hot sunny days. Creating an alfresco dining space will also enable you to make the most of your outside area in the Spring and Summer months.
