5 CREATIVE IDEAS TO CREATE SHADE IN YOUR GARDEN
Summer is fast approaching, and we are all excited to get out and spend time in our beautiful sunny gardens – but when the weather gets too warm, we are also going to need some shade! Shade makes outdoor spaces more comfortable, protects plants and wildlife, and creates an overall more enjoyable garden experience.
Carefully planned areas of natural shade can also cut cooling costs and provide an eco-friendly solution whilst boosting the appearance of an outdoor space. Here are five creative ideas from gardening expert Fiona Jenkins at MyJobQuote.co.uk to help you turn your garden into a perfectly shaded oasis.
Incorporate Trees for Natural Shade
Choosing the right trees is the key to bring long-lasting shade to your garden. When planting trees for shade think about how fast they grow, how far their roots spread, and how thick their canopy is. Search for tress that are well suited to your local climate and the soil in your area. Popular choices include oak and maple which are fast growers, provide a good level of canopy, and look great in any garden.
To achieve maximum shade, you are also going to want to plant your trees smartly and position them where they will block the most sunlight during hot afternoons. Keep in mind the space that will be needed for the roots and body of the tree to grow without causing any structural damage or taking away energy from other plants which need to thrive. Proper placement helps your trees shade exactly where you need it most, so they are perfectly placed around seating and outdoor dining areas.
Ensure that you keep your trees healthy with regular pruning. Remove any dead or crossing branches to promote strong growth and maintain good shade coverage over the years. It is a good idea to choose trees that are drought-tolerant and hardy, as this will reduce care needs and increase the chance of healthy trees which can provide consistent shade for many seasons.
Install Shade Sails and Fabric Canopies
Shade sails are easy to install and add a sleek, modern twist to any garden. As well as this, they are ideal for blocking harmful UV rays and keeping zones such as your patio area cooler. They come in a variety of shapes and colours so can match any garden style. Once installed they require little upkeep but are also highly flexible and can easily be moved or removed.
Position shade sails to cover specific areas, such as dining spaces and lounge chairs, during the hottest part of the day. Multiple sails can be used to create interesting shapes and extra coverage, and layering different angles can make your garden look lively and inviting.
When selecting sails and canopies, look for high-quality fabrics such as polyester or HDPE which are resistant to fading and weather damage. Ensure that they are properly installed on strong mounting points to keep them tight and prevent sagging whilst withstanding wind and rain. Investing in good quality, durable materials will extend the lifespan of your shaded areas.
Build Pergolas and Gazebos
Pergolas and gazebos are a great shade solution that add visual appeal and extra comfort to any garden, whilst serving as a focal point for the space. These structures work well when intertwined with climbing plants such as wisteria and clematis – a great way of blending function with beauty.
The structures can be designed to suit your style, where you are aiming for a rustic or more modern look, but be sure to build them with sturdy materials such as wood, vinyl, or metal. Professional services can be hired to assemble, or you can even have a go at DIY if you have the right tools and are confident enough!
Pergolas and gazebos can be further enhanced by adding curtains, blinds, or roll-up covers to adjust shade levels. Install comfortable seating and cosy outdoor lighting to make the area not only a perfect place to relax on the shade, but a great space for entertaining guests on a warm summer evening.
Create Shade with Plant-Based Solutions
Plant thick shrubs like bamboo, holly, or laurels to block sunlight or train climbing plants on trellises or fences for quick shade. Fast-growing species can fill space in just a few years and provide a natural, cheap way to add shade.
Vertical gardens or walls covered in greenery are a beautiful, eye-catching way of cutting heat. Green walls boost your garden’s look and reduce the heat island effect, cooling the air around them. Opt for sun-loving plants which can easily be attached to walls and fences.
Another wonderful idea is to grow fruit trees to create small, shaded spots. They will give you fresh produce whilst also providing the perfect shaded corner to curl up with a good book on a hot summer day. Proper planning will ensure that they are allowed to thrive without having to compete for sunlight and other nutrients.
Utilise Outdoor Structures
Tall walls or fences can block direct sunlight, especially when positioned east to west. Use lattice panels to support climbing plants for added shade, extra privacy and a stunning background for your garden.
Position patios and seats where they’ll stay cooler during the day and use reflective surfaces like light gravel or white stone to bounce light away. Smart layout tricks keep your outdoor space comfortable no matter the weather.
Retractable awnings are another great solution to give you control over shade. Use them to cover seating areas or windows outside. They are easy to open or close depending on weather conditions and add style and flexibility as the seasons change.
Final Thoughts
Creating shade in your garden doesn’t have to be a complicated process and mixing natural options such as trees and shrubs with features such as pergolas and shade sails offers a perfect set of solutions. Adding layers and variety will make your outdoor space feel more inviting and protected and with careful planning you can enjoy your garden all year round.
Unleash your creativity and start experimenting with shade and turn your garden in to a cool, peaceful retreat suited to your every need this summer!
MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR… FIONA JENKINS
Fiona Jenkins is a UK-based landscaper with over twenty-five years of experience in the industry. As a gardening expert for MyJobQuote, one of the UK’s top trades-matching sites, Fiona offers her expert advice to MyJobQuote’s tradespeople and homeowners and has also been featured as a gardening expert for a range of reputable publications.
