How to Get Your Garden Ready for Summer

Spring is here, and with the warmer months just around the corner, now is the perfect time to get your outdoor space in shape. Whether you have a sprawling lawn or a compact patio, a little preparation goes a long way — and the payoff is a garden you'll actually want to spend time in all summer long.

1. Start with a Deep Clean

Winter leaves behind debris, algae, and general grime. Begin by clearing out dead leaves, sweeping patios and decking, and giving hard surfaces a good scrub or pressure wash. This instantly lifts the look of any outdoor space and makes everything that follows feel more rewarding.

2. Check and Restore Your Garden Furniture

Bring your garden furniture out of storage and give it a thorough inspection. Look for rust on metal frames, mould on cushions, and any structural damage. Wipe down rattan and polyrattan pieces with a damp cloth, and treat wooden furniture with a suitable oil or sealant to protect it through the season. If your furniture has seen better days, spring is the ideal time to invest in a new set before the summer rush. It's also worth picking up a set of garden furniture covers to protect your investment through the season.

3. Refresh Your Storage

A tidy garden starts with good storage. Check that your garden storage box or shed is weathertight after winter — look for any cracks, warped lids, or damaged hinges. Clear out anything that doesn't belong and reorganise tools, cushions, and accessories so everything is easy to access when you need it.

4. Plan Your Layout

Think about how you want to use your garden this summer. Are you entertaining? Relaxing solo? Letting the kids run free? Your layout should reflect how you actually live. Consider adding a garden dining set for al fresco meals, a lounge set for lazy afternoons, or a gazebo or pergola to create a sheltered outdoor room you can use whatever the weather.

5. Get Your Planting in Order

April and May are prime planting months in the UK. Clear out any dead growth from last year, turn over your beds, and add fresh compost. Whether you're growing flowers, herbs, or vegetables, getting your planting done early gives everything the best chance to establish before the heat of summer.

6. Check Your Lighting and Accessories

Outdoor lighting transforms a garden in the evenings. Check that any solar lights have survived winter and replace batteries or bulbs where needed. Add lanterns, string lights, or pathway lighting to extend the time you can enjoy your outdoor space after dark.

7. Think About Shade

The UK may not be the tropics, but summer sun can be intense — especially on south-facing gardens. A parasol, sail shade, or pergola with a canopy gives you a comfortable spot to sit without overheating, and makes your garden usable even on the hottest days.

Ready to Make the Most of Your Garden This Summer?

Getting your garden summer-ready doesn't have to be a big project. A few focused afternoons in April and May will set you up for months of enjoyment. Browse our full range of garden furniture and outdoor living to find everything you need to make this your best summer yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I start getting my garden ready for summer in the UK?

April is the ideal time to start. The risk of hard frosts has largely passed, temperatures are rising, and you'll have time to get everything in order before the main summer season begins in June and July.

How do I clean garden furniture after winter?

For rattan and polyrattan, a damp cloth and mild soapy water is usually sufficient. Metal furniture may need a rust treatment if spots have appeared. Wooden furniture benefits from a fresh coat of oil or sealant. Always allow furniture to dry fully before adding cushions or covers.

How do I protect my garden furniture from UK weather?

Use furniture covers when pieces are not in use, store cushions in a weatherproof storage box, and choose materials rated for outdoor use year-round — polyrattan and powder-coated steel are particularly resilient in the UK climate.

What's the best way to store garden cushions?

A garden storage box is ideal — it keeps cushions dry, protected from UV, and out of the way when not in use. Look for a box with a weatherproof lid and adequate capacity for your full set of cushions.

Do I need planning permission for a pergola or gazebo in the UK?

In most cases, no. Garden structures like pergolas and gazebos typically fall under permitted development rights, provided they meet certain size and placement criteria. However, it's always worth checking with your local planning authority if you're unsure, particularly for larger structures or listed properties.

How can I make a small garden feel bigger?

Use multi-functional furniture, keep pathways clear, choose light-coloured surfaces, and use vertical planting to draw the eye upward. A well-placed mirror or trellis can also create the illusion of more space.