Exteriors: Garden Essentials

The garden is the perfect place to relax, Matthew Mallinson explores the best items to decorate your garden in preparation for summer from bird feeders to bug hotels.

Attract All The Birds

Perfect for any bird lover, that wants to bring them in to his garden.  This bird table (£25www.webbsdirect.co.uk) is made from the finest timber and with a simple style that will bring an elegant look to your garden this is a must have for any garden. Coming in a flat pack style, it will require some DIY skills to assemble, though I’m sure you’ll find it worth it. Spread some seed and wait for the birds to flock in. 

Feed Your Guests

Nicely paired with your bird table, this bird food tin (£20 www.freshlyforked.com) is a great storage tin for your precious bird feed. Its retro styling is charming, with the words painted around being attractive; its enamel finish also makes it incredibly easy to clean. The lid fits tightly to keep food dry and keep out any unwanted pests, like insects or mice. The tin is currently available in cream or blue to match your personal style, and blend in with the theme of your garden.

Your Friendly Garden Gnome

The Woodland Wilf series of garden gnomes are undeniably adorable, each character with their own story to tell, we’re particularly fond of this model that is poised to water your plants (£6www.gardenbestbuys.com). Place him among your flowers and plant pots and he’ll fit right in. It is also possible to feature it in your home, if you should so choose. The gnome is hand painted and finely detailed, being created to last against the elements. 

Claim Your Shed

These signs (£10.50 www.siopgardd.com) can be completely customised to feature any message (although they limit to about 20 words), such as “Grandad’s Shed” or “Keep Out”. Made from recycled wood, this is also a great item for the environmentally conscious; while still looking fantastic. Written in a childlike style this sign will give a whimsical look, regardless of what is is used for. These make a great birthday gift, or you can just treat yourself. 

Save The Bugs!

England is home to hundreds of insects, with many at risk due to changes in their natural habitat, many insects are helpful throughout the garden; for instance bees pollinate flowers allowing them to thrive. Other insects eat aphids which can destroy flowers! This wooden insect hotel (£30 www.londongardentrading.com) is capable of sheltering bees, ladybirds and hundreds of other beneficial garden insects. Simply place in a sunny but sheltered spot, sit back and wait for the bugs to arrive.

Old fashioned Time

The Copernicus sundial (£129 www.notonthehighstreet.com) is a traditional sundial, which will appeal to any classical lover. Made from heavy, high quality marine grade brass, the sundial is precision engineered to give an accurate reading and built to last long term. The brass will slowly darken with age, giving it a vintage look. It can also be engraved with a message of up to 140 characters, making each sundial entirely personal. 

[Originally published by Vine Magazine]