An introduction to family gardens
Any family dreams of a garden in which they can while away
the summer days. Encourage your kids to play outside by learning how to
create the perfect family garden.
Discuss with the entire family what they would like from the
garden. Every member of the household should have a feature that really
excites them.
Your lawn really should contain perennial ryegrass if it is
to be hardy enough. It will need cutting at least once a week
throughout summer, but will stand up to plenty of activity from
children.
Even the toughest grass will start to wear, so rotate
features such as slides or swings. You could even lay down a plastic
mesh after cutting the grass. This will be hidden once the grass grows,
and prevents bald patches.
Construct a kids area with plenty of interesting hard
landscaping features. Combine this with shale or wood chippings on the
floor for a safe playing surface that also combats weed growth.
Try encouraging the children to enjoy the garden by giving
them a vegetable patch to tend to.
Be economical with space in a small garden. Hang swings from
mature branches, and turn goal posts into plant supports. A shed can
become a playhouse, a secret den, and then a bike store as the children
grow.
A pergola will last an age, can be decorated with climbers,
and provides a retreat for the adults whilst still allowing them to
observe the entire garden.