Latest news with #gardendecor
The Sun
12-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
The ‘gorgeous' £10 buy that provides pretty colour and lights up your garden or terrace ‘all-year long'
SHOPPERS are racing to snap up a set of string lights designed to brighten up outdoor spaces while blending in with softer garden aesthetics. These LED string lights adorned with warm white bulbs and artificial pink roses offer a simple way to introduce light and colour to gardens. 3 3 Retailing for £10 at The Original Factory Shop, the LED rose string lights promise to suffuse gardens, terraces and gazebos with warmer hues. The product description reads: "It's a great no-fuss addition to any garden, terrace or gazebo, providing light in those darker corners and colour all year long." The faux foliage and rose detailing aim to replicate the look of real climbing plants without the maintenance. While not a replacement for outdoor lighting, the set can be a low-effort ambient addition to a space. The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) is a British discount department store chain established in 1969 by Peter Black. Its first store opened in Keighley, West Yorkshire, and it originally sold surplus soap produced by one of Black's factories. TOFS today operates over 180 stores across the UK. It comes as an expert revealed to The Sun seven ways to make a garden look bigger. One easy method is to create zones, according to Ivana Agustina, Head of Project Management at ShrubHub, an online landscape design service. 6 ways to get rid of slugs and snails Agustina said: "The human brain perceives multiple small experiences as more substantial than one uniform space. 'By dividing your garden into zones – perhaps a dining area, a lounge space, and a planting section – visitors mentally 'travel' through your garden, making it feel much bigger.' Another approach is to train climbing plants to grow up trellises or along walls. Agustina explained: "Vertical gardening is both practical and visually expanding. 'By drawing the eye upward with wall-mounted planters, trellises with climbing plants, or tall, narrow planters, you create height that makes the garden feel more spacious.' Meanwhile, Gardener's World recently named trumpet vines (Campsis) as one of the best plants for covering walls and fences that are an eyesore. A well-kept garden can add anywhere between 5-20% to the value of a property. carried out a study and consulted 36 estate agents, garden designers and property professionals from across the UK. And the experts revealed the garden feature which adds the most value to a property is a shed. Shed - 82% Patio or paving - 76% Secure fencing, walls or gates - 72% Outdoor lighting - 66% Sturdy decking - 62% Water features eg. fountain or pond - 58% Modern garden furniture - 54% Artificial lawn/grass - 40% These deciduous climbers produce striking tubular flowers in shades of red, orange or yellow, typically that bloom from late summer into autumn. Known for their rapid growth, they can quickly cover trellises or frameworks, though experts recommend pruning annually to keep them in check. While they thrive in warmer conditions, they are also frost-hardy once established. 3
The Sun
06-06-2025
- The Sun
I got a fence to block out my neighbour's garden – there's so much mess the fence FELL & then they angered me even more
A WOMAN has declared a ''neighbour war'' after her neighbour's garden was so full of rubbish it caused her fence to collapse. Furious social media user @ hughesrachy took to TikTok to rant after the mess in the neighbour 's garden caused her wooden fence to crumble - and eventually fall down. According to the woman, the person living next door had accumulated a pile of items which the man stored outside. A recent video posted online also revealed ''the state'' of the garden, jampacked with full bin bags, plastic storage boxes, wires and even what appeared to be an old washing machine. There also seemed to be old tech, a canopy with no cover on top, a string of garden lights, a swing frame with no swings and more. The TikToker claimed that they ''had a fence in front of this'' - but that the neighbours ''had put all kinds of stuff inbetween the two fences''. This, she claimed in the video, caused her fence to fall down and the TikToker was left with a ''crumbled fence behind''. After approaching the neighbours and asking to go halves to cover the cost of a new fence, the woman said they ''refused'' to chip in. Eventually, the neighbour 's fence collapsed entirely and fell down into her garden, revealing a huge mess on the other side. The woman went on: ''So had it removed was it wasn't safe.'' Unfortunately for the TikTok user, it didn't end there. Not only is she now left with no fence and privacy whatsoever, she claimed the neighbour ''won't pay and is waiting for her ''to pay to get a new one''. I hate my new build garden being overlooked so found a 5 METRE privacy fence to block out nosy neighbours for under £30 ''How is this ok?'' she was outraged, declaring the start of '' neighbour wars '' in the caption. Since being posted online, the clip has taken the internet by storm, amassing close to 460k views in just 16 hours. It also has over 2,200 likes and 345 shares - however, the TikToker has turned commenting off. How to create privacy in your garden CREATING privacy in your garden can be achieved in a number of ways depending on your budget, and the size of your space. Here are some effective ways to enhance privacy in your garden: 1. Fencing Install a tall, solid wooden or vinyl fence. This is one of the most straightforward ways to gain immediate privacy. Or use lattice panels, trellis, or slatted fencing to add a decorative touch while still offering privacy. 2. Hedges and Plants Fast-growing evergreen shrubs or trees like Leylandii, Thuja, or Bamboo along the boundary of your garden can help with privacy. Grow a dense hedge using plants like Boxwood, Privet, or Laurel. It may take time to grow, but it provides a natural and green privacy screen. Use climbers like Ivy, Clematis, or Wisteria on fences or trellises to create a lush, green privacy barrier. 3. Outdoor Curtains Hang outdoor curtains around pergolas, gazebos, or patios for an easy-to-adjust privacy solution. 4. Sound Barriers A water fountain or small waterfall can help drown out noise, adding to the sense of privacy. Or install fencing designed to reduce noise if privacy from sound is also a concern. £20,000 garden fence fine UK boundary rules mean your humble garden fence could turn into a legal nightmare if you get it wrong. Whether you're upgrading panels or building from scratch, the regulations are clear and local councils aren't afraid to crack down. New rules which came in last week under the The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 outline what homeowners can build without needing full planning permission. Gurpreet Chhokar, Which? Legal Expert, said: "If you're thinking of putting up a new garden fence this summer, there are a few important things to bear in mind to make sure you don't break any laws and find yourself landed with a fine." Back garden fence For a back garden fence, you're allowed a fence up to two metres high (that's about six foot six) without needing planning permission. Gurpreet said: " if you don't have planning permission then your fence can't be any higher than two metres from the ground." Go any higher, even with a decorative trellis, and you'll need to get approval first. Skip this step and you could be forced to tear it down, or even worse – face enforcement action. Front fence At the front of your property, things get stricter. Fences can't go above one metre if you live next to a footpath, road or public space. That's just over three feet tall. It's designed to help visibility for drivers and pedestrians but plenty of homeowners are caught out. Breaching planning rules can lead to an enforcement notice and, in some cases, fines. If your fence causes a statutory nuisance, such as flooding or blocked drains, you could face penalties of up to £5,000 or £20,000 for a business under environmental regulations. Ignore it, and things can escalate to court. Neighbour disputes are the most common property complaint in the UK and they often boil down to where the boundary actually is. Before building, measure up carefully and chat things through with your neighbour. Snapping a few photos and getting a handshake agreement could save you a legal headache down the line.
The Sun
06-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
Gardeners are being urged to put a penny in their bird bath this summer for important reason
PLACING a penny in your bird bath can have an unexpected benefit this summer. This simple and extremely cheap step can help to transform your garden decor, and help attract more birds. 2 As well as serving as a stylish feature, bird baths have a positive impact on your outdoor space. They attract birds to your garden, helping to control the amount of insects in your flowerbeds. However, they also tend to become a breeding ground for algae. But according to experts, there is a quick trick which can solve this problem, and there's no scrubbing involved.. The solution is also extremely cost-effective, as all you need is one penny. According to the experts at Homes and Gardens, throwing a penny into your bird bath can help to ward off algae. "The copper present in pre-1982 one or two-penny coins triggers a chemical reaction in your bird bath's water," the pros explained. They continued on to say that this "acts to naturally fend off the development of algae". Rocky Trifari, a bird enthusiast and owner of The Rocky Safari, spoke to the publication about the benefits of the hack. "Copper is a natural biocide with properties that interfere with the biological processes algae and other microorganisms rely on," the expert said. I hate my new build garden being overlooked so found a 5 METRE privacy fence to block out nosy neighbours for under £30 "When copper ions leach into the water, they promote an environment that discourages the growth of green algae, one of the main causes of that slimy, dirty water found in birdbaths." Make sure your pennies are free of rust or corrosion before adding them to your bird bath. Since birds drink and bathe in the water, prolonged exposure to these elements could cause health risks. While pennies won't act as a permanent solution to algae, they can definitely help reduce growth. What does the RSPB think? The organisation said: "Birds need water for drinking and bathing. "There are many ways of providing water in the garden, but the simplest? A bird bath. "Many people put food out for birds, but fewer provide a regular supply of clean water. Birds need water for drinking and bathing. "Bird baths are particularly important in weather extremes: During winter when natural supplies may be frozen, and in dry conditions such as hot summers with weeks of no rain. "But being small and enclosed, bird baths can easily become dirty and stagnant, and even dangerous, without regular cleaning. "Make sure you change the water in your bird bath daily and give bird baths a thorough clean once a week to help prevent the spread of disease." How to encourage wildlife into your garden THE Woodland Trust shared five top tips 1. Grow wild Let nature take its course to create a more attractive environment for all things wild. You don't have to leave your plot to develop into a small jungle – wildlife will thank you for just a small corner, border or planter. 2. Plant trees and shrubs Research has shown that gardens are more attractive to wildlife if they have trees. And those trees can bring a host of other benefits too, from reducing noise and flooding to fighting climate change. 3. Create homes If you want to attract a particular species, a ready-made home can look especially appealing to any wildlife passing through. 4. Offer a water source Water is crucial for wildlife. Making some available in your garden could be a lifeline, especially in extreme weather. 5. Serve an extra meal One of the best ways to persuade a plethora of wildlife to your patch is to give them access to an easy meal. Other cleaning hacks and gardening tips A £1 buy can also be used to transform your mouldy outdoor furniture. Alternatively, a kitchen ingredient can also be used to scrub up your garden set. Another budget buy is also said to leave your outdoor garden set gleaming in time for summer. Or you can opt to clean your garden furniture in seconds with a DIY hack. And an 80p hack helps to lift stubborn algae from your garden surfaces. 2
Daily Mail
20-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
B&Q has lots of surprisingly stylish outdoor furniture - including viral egg chairs and dining sets for under £100
Savvy shoppers are raving about B&Q 's outdoor furniture selection - including a three-piece wicker set that retails for less than £100. As the season of endless barbecues gets underway, it might be time to give your garden a spruce - from trimming the weeds to investing in some new decor pieces. If you're looking to upgrade your wicker set without breaking the bank, head to your nearest B&Q because the DIY expert has launched a three-piece design that only costs £98.90. The set includes two rattan chairs with removable cushions and a matching table with a tempered glass top, with buyers praising the Yaheetech pieces for being 'easy to assemble' and 'good value' for money. It is available in two colours, brown or black wicker with khaki cushions, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use - giving you the greatest bang for your buck. According to B&Q, the design has a 'timeless' appeal that adds 'warmth and elegance' to create a 'welcoming atmosphere' so you can relax and enjoy your summer evenings. One review posted on the site noted the wicker set sits well in a 'small patio or balcony' while another read: 'The set came carefully packaged, was easy to assemble, looks really nice and the seats are comfortable.' The Yaheetech set isn't the only affordable lounge set available at B&Q right now, with the retailer's garden furniture section full of high-quality yet reasonably-priced pieces for you to choose from. The brand's Outsunny bistro set, comprising two chairs and a coffee table, is priced at £99.99 - with its most attractive feature that it is easy to clean while still being surprisingly stylist. If you like to mix and match your furniture, it might be worth browsing through the brand's individual pieces - like the Bjarni Garden Occasional blush pink patio table for less than £35. Other popular styles include an outdoor rocking chair made from rattan, complete with orange soft furnishings, that will only set you back by £64.95. It comes in a variety of colours - from bright red and turquoise, to charcoal black - and is water and rust-resistant, has a wide armrest, and a load-bearing capacity of up to 180 kilos. Other standouts include £55 two-seater dining set in a lovely forest green colour as well as a pair of foldable wooden chairs for £89.99, in case you prefer that aesthetic to the woven rattan options. If you're looking for more surfaces to ensure your guests always have somewhere to place their drinks, the retailer also has space-saving side tables that cost as little as £39.99. Finally, B&Q has also added the viral moon and egg chairs chairs to its selection, with sets of two starting at £95.99 and available in bright blue, white, and black colourways. £98.99 Shop Outsunny 3 Pieces Rattan Patio Bistro Set 2 Chairs Coffee Side Table Set, Grey £99.99 Shop Hosti Flamingo Rattan effect Armchair £30 Shop Furniturebox UK Outdoor Hanging Egg Chair: Light Brown Rattan & Cream Cushions £239.99 Shop Garden chairs in retro design (set of 2) £95.99 Shop Outsunny 50.5cm Round Garden Table with SPC Tabletop, Grey Wood Effect £39.99 Shop Janco Matt Green Metal 2 Seater Dining set £55 Shop Costway 3 Pieces Folding Patio Bistro Set Wooden Table and Chairs with Slatted Tabletop £84.95 Shop Bjarni Garden Patio Occasional Table in Blush Pink £34.99 Shop It comes after gardening experts shared their top tips for revamping your backyard as BBQ season heats up. 'Early bloomers such as crocuses come in a variety of pinks, oranges, yellows, blues and purples, which are ideal for adding brightness and warmth to your garden,' she explained. 'These plants not only look beautiful in bloom, but are also perfect for attracting pollinators.' The expert however warned against planting darker-hued flora - such as deep reds - as they 'will do the opposite and actually detract pollinators from your garden; so avoid this shade if you want your space buzzing with wildlife. 'Helleborus are another great addition to plant in your garden this time of year,' she suggested. 'With their green, pink and white blooms, these flowers will help brighten up any day, especially if you're planning for a BBQ and get met with rainfall instead!' Meanwhile, luxury decking and landscaping expert, Simon Parr suggests adding lights to your garden to elevate its overall look. 'Add strings of solar lights or a selection of lanterns to highlight pathways, seating or special features,' he revealed. 'As well as helping to create a more relaxing atmosphere, this will also extend useable garden time long after dusk.' Samantha Richards, a garden gazebo expert at Gazeboshop in Banbury revealed that a great way to elevate your scenery is by planting an array of colourful plants. He said this crafty hack transforms any garden, no matter how small it is, adding that the key is to 'define' different areas with your garden space, as this ensures an immediate and total revamp. 'Consider separate areas for relaxing, cooking, dining and socialising,' Simon added. 'A pergola or deck could be perfect for creating the look and feel of an 'outdoor room'. Gardening expert Richard King also shared his top tips for maintaining your new garden furniture, including using soft-bristle brushes to clean the chairs and tables before giving them a simple hose-down if needed.
The Sun
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Aldi launches £8 decor buy that adds ‘sparkle' to your garden this summer – it looks dazzling on sunny days
EVERY garden looks 10 times better under the summer sunshine, especially with this fun Aldi buy. Shoppers will soon be able to add a trendy touch to their outdoor space with this budget-friendly item. 2 You can transform your garden into a glamorous set-up with this quirky decor buy. It will add some personality to your space as well as brightening up the area. The Disco Ball Planter is coming to the Aldi middle aisle on Thursday, 22 May. Available in the classic silver or pink, this decor buy will set you back just £7.99. "Add some sparkle to your outside living space and get ready to host those summer parties," said the product description. It measures 15 centimetres in height and is described as manufacturers as "suitable for indoor use". The reflective surface of the mirror disco pot showers its surroundings with dazzling rays of sunlight. On sunny days, it instantly brightens up any room or area you place it. It instantly draws the eye to your plants and gives your space a fun retro feel. And this unique item isn't the only Aldi item on offer for elevating your garden. I made a DIY fence for £68 with pallets from Facebook Marketplace - it gives more privacy & people say it's 'fantastic' A £3 garden decoration from Aldi that turns your outdoor space into a "lush oasis". And the Aldi outdoor patio furniture, including a rattan effect corner sofa. add a touch of glamour to your garden. Another item from the bargain retailer is perfect for attracting birds to your space. Or you can nab a B&Q buy that creates a "tranquil atmosphere" in your garden. Lidl also has a £3 decor buy that adds a "whimsical" touch to your garden this summer. A B&M garden buy will transform your patio into an "ambient" paradise. Home Bargains also has a £5 decor buy that turns your patio into an "outdoor living room". Plus, a 79p Home Bargains item that will instantly level up your outdoor space.
