Restoration of an Overgrown Garden: Creating Herbaceous Borders, Membrane Wood Chip Paths, with a Lush Green Lawns
A neglected and overgrown garden can be an overwhelming sight, but with the right planning and effort, it can be transformed into a beautiful and functional outdoor space. In this blog, we will explore the step-by-step process of clearing an overgrown garden and creating new herbaceous borders, membrane wood chip paths, and a lush green lawn area. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to revitalize your garden and enjoy its beauty once again.
Clearing the Overgrown Garden:
The first step in transforming an overgrown garden is clearing away the accumulated vegetation. This can be a labor-intensive task, but it’s crucial to create a clean canvas for your new garden design. Start by removing any large debris such as fallen branches, rocks, or old garden structures. Next, trim back overgrown shrubs and trees, ensuring that you maintain their natural shape and health. Be cautious not to cut too much, as it can shock the plants.
Once the larger items are cleared, focus on removing the weeds and overgrown grass. Use a sturdy garden fork or spade to dig out the roots of persistent weeds, and make sure to dispose of them properly. Consider using weed killer or natural alternatives to prevent regrowth especially on Ground Elder and Bindweed.
Creating Herbaceous Borders:
Lifting Existing Perennial/Herbaceous Plants:
If you have an old herbaceous plants that you would like to save and replant, there are several steps you can take to increase its chances of survival.
Prepare the new planting area and choose suitable locations for the herbaceous plant in your garden or a pot, ensuring it meets the plant’s light, soil, and moisture requirements. Clear any weeds or debris from the area and prepare the soil by loosening it with a garden fork.
Dig up the plant:
Carefully dig around the base of the herbaceous plant, ensuring you don’t damage the roots. Use a garden fork or a spade to lift the plant from the ground keeping soil intact with roots. If the plant is large, you may need to divide it into smaller sections to make it easier to handle and increase its chances of survival. You may come across whilst lifting plants ground elder, bindweed roots wrapped around the roots, a bucket of water to help tease of soil in order to remove weed roots prior to planting.
Trim and clean the plant:
Inspect the herbaceous plant for any damaged or diseased foliage, stems, or roots. Trim off any dead or unhealthy parts using clean and sharp pruning shears. Also, gently remove excess soil from the roots, being careful not to damage them.
Replant the herbaceous plant: Dig a hole in the prepared planting area that is slightly larger than the plant’s root ball. Place the herbaceous plant in the hole, ensuring it is at the same depth as it was before. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly immediately after planting.
Provide proper care:
After replanting, it’s important to provide the herbaceous plant with adequate care. Water the plant regularly, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged. Monitor the plant for any signs of stress or nutrient deficiencies and address them accordingly. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.
Monitor and adjust: Keep a close eye on the replanted herbaceous plant and monitor its progress. Make adjustments to its care as needed, such as adjusting watering frequency or providing additional support if the plant requires it.
Remember, not all herbaceous plants respond well to being transplanted, and success may vary depending on the plant species, its age, and overall health. It’s best to choose healthy, vigorous plants for replanting and follow the specific care requirements for the particular herbaceous species you are working with. Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth. This will also give your herbaceous borders a neat and finished appearance.
Now that your garden is cleared, it’s time to design and create beautiful herbaceous borders. Start by planning the layout and selecting a variety of plants that will thrive in your garden’s specific conditions. Consider factors such as sunlight, soil type, and water availability.
Membrane Wood Chip Paths:
To create attractive and low-maintenance paths within your garden, consider using membrane wood chips. Start by marking out the path’s desired route using string or stakes. Once the path is outlined, remove any existing grass, weeds, or debris from the area.
Next, lay a permeable membrane over the cleared path area. This membrane will help prevent weed growth and keep the wood chips in place. Secure the edges of the membrane with landscaping pegs to keep it in position.
Cover the membrane with a layer of wood chips, spreading them evenly to create a visually appealing path. Use a rake or broom to distribute the wood chips and ensure a level surface.
Soiling Area for Turfing or Grass Seeding:
To establish a lush green lawn area, it’s important to prepare the soil properly. Start by removing any remaining weeds, stones, or debris from the designated lawn space. Ensure the area is level by filling in any depressions or uneven patches with topsoil.
Loosen the soil using a garden fork or tiller, breaking up any compacted areas. Incorporate organic matter into the soil, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve its structure and fertility.
If you choose to turf, ensure that the soil is smooth and level before laying the turf rolls. Water the area thoroughly after installation and continue to water regularly to encourage root establishment.
If you prefer grass seeding, evenly spread the grass seed over the prepared soil. Use a garden rake to lightly work the seeds into the top layer of soil. Water the area gently, keeping the soil moist until the grass seed germinates and establishes.
Transforming an overgrown garden into a vibrant and well-organized outdoor space requires patience and effort, but the results are worth it. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can clear the overgrown vegetation, create stunning herbaceous borders, establish membrane wood chip paths, and prepare the soil for turfing or grass seeding. Remember to maintain your garden regularly by watering, weeding, and pruning to ensure its continued beauty and functionality. Enjoy the process and the rewarding experience of witnessing your garden flourish once again.
Images of a Garden Restoration Project near Crewkerne, Somerset by Ashlands Gardens.
