Planning Your Garden Layout: Do This Before You Start Planting

Spring’s here – the soil’s waking up, the sun’s hanging around longer, and you’re itching to get your hands dirty. But before you start digging holes and scattering seeds, hold up. A little planning now can save you loads of time (and regret) later.

Here’s what to think about before you start planting:

1. Track the Sun First

It’s tempting to start planting as soon as the weather turns, but take a few days to notice where the sun actually hits your garden. Some spots get morning light, others are shaded most of the day.

Tip: Most fruit and veg need at least 6 hours of sun. If you’re planting shade-lovers like ferns or hydrangeas, those shadier corners are just right.

2. Think About Wind and Water

Wind can dry out soil fast, snap young plants, and carry away mulch. If your garden gets strong gusts, consider adding windbreaks like trellis panels, shrubs or even tall planters.

And don’t forget drainage – soggy soil means unhappy roots. After a rainy day, walk around and look for puddling. Raised beds or extra compost can help sort out waterlogged patches.

3. Group Plants by Need

Put plants with similar water, light and soil needs together – it’ll make caring for them much easier. Herbs, for example, like it dry and sunny. Lettuce? Not so much.

It’s a bit like organising your kitchen – keep the things that work best together in the same drawer.

4. Sketch It Out

You don’t need to be an artist. Just draw a rough layout on paper. Mark out sunny spots, shade areas, pathways, seating zones and any existing plants you want to keep.

Leave space between beds so you can get around easily with a wheelbarrow or watering can.

5. Reuse, Repurpose, Reimagine

Before buying new beds or containers, see what you’ve already got. Old pallets, crates, buckets and even broken pots can be given new life in the garden.

Pop into DIY Depot for inspiration – we’ve got all sorts of gear that works just as hard as you do.

Final Thought

Spring’s exciting – we get it. But a bit of thinking and planning now will help your garden thrive all season long. No last-minute digging, no replanting because something outgrew its spot. Just a garden that works hard and looks brilliant doing it.

Need help getting started? Visit DIY Depot – our team’s always happy to share advice and help you plot out your garden goals.