A garden is a grand teacher. It teaches patience and careful watchfulness; it teaches industry and thrift; above all it teaches entire trust.”
— Gertrude Jekyll,
During this early spring period, many individuals begin to consider the complex task of moving house. For those preparing to establish themselves in a new garden this year, the initial steps taken can significantly influence the future development and enjoyment of the space.
Moving comes with the thrill of imagining your ideal garden. Before rushing to plant all your favourite species, I encourage you to pause and plan. Thoughtful preparation can transform a patch of earth into a vibrant, thriving ecosystem that reflects your personality, provides vital habitats for all manner of wildlife and enhances your home. With a little patience and careful observation, you can create a space that’s beautiful, biodiverse and manageable, whatever its size.
The foundation of any successful garden lies in understanding your site. Start with a simple analysis: walk the space at different times of day, noting where the sunlight falls, which areas are shaded, and how the wind moves. Take a closer look at your soil—does it drain freely, or hold water? Is it sandy, clay, or loam? Knowing these details will help you select plants that will thrive and reduce maintenance down the line.
Aspect is another vital consideration. South-facing gardens tend to be warmer and sunnier, making them suitable for a wide range of plants, while north-facing spaces will favour shade-loving varieties. Structure and flow are equally important; think about how you want to move through your garden. Paths, borders, seating areas, and focal points can all contribute to a sense of coherence and invite exploration.
At Bates Green Garden, we champion a naturalistic approach—working with nature rather than against it. This style celebrates the beauty of informal planting, weaving together grasses, perennials, and shrubs to create layered, ever-changing scenes. The result is a garden that feels harmonious, resilient, and full of life throughout the seasons. Naturalistic gardens are often easier to care for, as they rely on plant communities that support each other and encourage biodiversity.
Before you dig in, take time to sketch a simple plan. Mark existing trees, structures, and boundaries, then outline areas for planting, paths, and seating. Think ahead to how the garden will look in different months, and factor in maintenance—choose plants that suit your lifestyle and the time you can devote to gardening. Mulching, strategic watering, and pruning are all easier when your garden is well-organised from the start.
Don’t hesitate to seek advice or inspiration. Visiting gardens like Bates Green can spark ideas and help you see possibilities for your own space. Take photos, ask questions, and observe how different plants work together.
To help you get started, I’m delighted to announce our upcoming Spring Garden Tutorial on Wednesday, 11th March. During this hands-on session, I’ll guide participants through essential garden design principles, demonstrating how to analyse a site, develop a plan, and embrace the naturalistic style that defines Bates Green Garden. We’ll discuss strategies for choosing plants, improving soil, and creating dynamic borders that provide interest year-round.
Places are limited and must be booked in advance via our website. Whether you’re looking to transform a neglected corner or plan an entire garden from scratch, this tutorial offers a friendly, supportive environment to learn, share ideas, and gain confidence.
Starting a new garden is both an adventure and an opportunity. By planning thoughtfully and embracing naturalistic principles, you can create a space that’s beautiful, sustainable, and uniquely yours. I warmly invite you to visit Bates Green Garden on Wednesdays and Saturdays to discover the delights of our landscape and do join us for the Spring Garden Tutorial in March. Together, let’s make this gardening season the start of something truly special.
Bates Green Garden reopens to the public on Wednesday 25th March 2026. For details, click here.
