Those of us with small outdoor spaces are all too familiar with the struggle to create an urban oasis. QVC’s Garden Expert, Richard Jackson, brings you his top tips on creating your very own cosy happy place.
- Windswept balconies, roof terraces and patios aren’t good for plants so put up some trellis or willow screening to create a much more sheltered environment for both you and your plants
- Grow climbing plants up the trellis and screening to soften and disguise it. The scented evergreen jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) is ideal for sunny patios, whilst honeysuckle or climbing nasturtiums are perfect for balconies and roof terraces
- Grow herbs, they look and smell great and are ready at hand when you want to pick a sprig or two for cooking. Rosemary, thyme, sage and marjoram are amongst the easiest to grow and they’re perennial too, so they get bigger and better each year
- It’s surprising how many vegetables and salad crops you can grow in small spaces. Try mouthwatering cherry tomato Sungold in large pots (at least 20cm wide) while lettuces, rocket and spinach are happy in troughs and window-boxes
- To keep your plants at their best, keep them watered regularly (this is especially important in the summer) and feed them once a week from April to September with a high potash plant food like Flower Power (available at QVC £22.50)
To see more of Richard Jackson’s tips and products visit www.qvcuk.com.