Get your patio ready for a party

Preparing your patio for a gathering can be a great opportunity to showcase your garden. Whether you have a small patio or a spacious outdoor area, here are some simple ideas to inspire you.

1. Declutter

Clear the area of any unnecessary items such as tools,

Can refer to either home-made garden compost or seed/potting compost: • Garden compost is a soil improver made from decomposed plant waste, usually in a compost bin or heap. It is added to soil to improve its fertility, structure and water-holding capacity. Seed or potting composts are used for growing seedlings or plants in containers - a wide range of commercially produced peat-free composts are available, made from a mix of various ingredients, such as loam, composted bark, coir and sand, although you can mix your own.

2. Scrub the decks

Use a stiff brush to clean any floor surfaces and remove weeds with a sharp tool. For stubborn stains, a specialized cleaner may be necessary. Be cautious when using chemicals and consider whether a pressure washer is needed as it may damage loose stones and cause waterlogging as well as using precious water.

3. Reorganise

Group your pots and planters together to create more floor space and make it easier to water and feed them. You can group them according to size or colour to create a visually appealing display. Don't forget to consider their sunlight and shade needs.

4. Add some colour

Treat yourself to some new plants in full bloom or leaf from nurseries and garden centres to add a boost to your existing display. Consider opting for

Perennials are plants that live for multiple years. They come in all shapes and sizes and fill our gardens with colourful flowers and ornamental foliage. Many are hardy and can survive outdoors all year round, while less hardy types need protection over winter. The term herbaceous perennial is used to describe long-lived plants without a permanent woody structure (they die back to ground level each autumn), distinguishing them from trees, shrubs and sub-shrubs.

5. Take a seat

Use your current garden furniture or invest in new foldable chairs for your guests. Add pretty cushions to liven them up and have a few cosy blankets at hand for cooler evenings. Consider using recycled items as occasional seating or large log sections around a fire pit to extend the use of your garden into the evenings.

6. Accessorize

Choose from a variety of outdoor living products to create your own personal style or theme. Consider using sustainable products that can be used multiple times. Jam jars make excellent vases that won't tip over easily. Use flowers, foliage, and grasses from your garden to create simple, loose arrangements.

7. Illuminate

Add some ambience to your party using gentle lighting that won't disrupt the local wildlife or disturb your neighbours. You can achieve this by using tealights in jars, outdoor fairy lights, or fire pits to create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your guests to enjoy.