As May unfolds across the United Kingdom, gardens burst into life with a symphony of colours and fragrances. It’s a delightful time to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and partake in various activities that celebrate the arrival of spring. Whether you’re a seasoned gardening enthusiast or simply appreciate the splendour of outdoor spaces, here are the top 10 things to do in UK gardens during the month of May, blending elements of garden design, landscaping, and garden architecture.
1. Enjoy the Blossoms
May brings an abundance of blossoms to UK gardens. Visit gardens renowned for their spring displays, such as Wisley in Surrey or Kew Gardens in London, and revel in the sight of flowering trees, including cherry blossoms, magnolias, and apple blossoms. Stroll along avenues lined with blooms and breathe in the sweet scents of spring.
2. Explore Garden Design Exhibitions
Take advantage of garden design exhibitions and events happening across the UK in May. These showcases highlight innovative landscaping ideas, garden architecture, and the latest trends in outdoor aesthetics. Visit renowned events like the Chelsea Flower Show in London to glean inspiration from cutting-edge garden designs.
3. Attend Garden Workshops
Participate in garden workshops focused on landscaping and garden design. Learn practical tips from experts on topics such as plant selection, layout planning, and creating focal points in your garden. Many botanical gardens and nurseries offer workshops tailored to both novice and experienced gardeners.
4. Plant Summer Bulbs
May is the ideal time to plant summer-flowering bulbs for a burst of color later in the season. Choose from a variety of bulbs like dahlias, lilies, and gladioli, and incorporate them into your garden design to create stunning floral displays. Experiment with different colors and heights to add depth and interest to your borders.
5. Tend to Herb Gardens
If you have a herb garden or are considering starting one, May is the perfect month to tend to your herbs. Prune back overwintered herbs, such as rosemary and thyme, and sow seeds of annual herbs like basil and coriander. Herb gardens not only provide culinary delights but also contribute to garden aesthetics with their textures and fragrances.
6. Design Outdoor Living Spaces
Incorporate outdoor living spaces into your garden design to make the most of sunny May days. Create inviting seating areas with comfortable furniture and decorative elements like pergolas or trellises adorned with climbing plants. Designate spaces for dining, relaxation, and socialising amidst the beauty of your garden.
7. Experiment with Container Gardening
Explore the versatility of container gardening by planting up pots and containers with seasonal bedding plants, herbs, or vegetables. Arrange containers strategically on patios, balconies, or along garden paths to add splashes of color and greenery to your outdoor spaces. Container gardening is ideal for small gardens and urban settings.
8. Embrace Garden Architecture
Appreciate the artistry of garden architecture by visiting gardens renowned for their structural elements. Explore historical gardens like Stourhead in Wiltshire or Blenheim Palace Gardens in Oxfordshire, and marvel at ornate follies, classical statues, and meticulously designed water features that define garden spaces.
9. Host Garden Gatherings
Invite friends and family for garden gatherings and al fresco meals. May provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor entertaining amidst blooming gardens. Set up a barbecue, arrange picnic blankets under shady trees, or gather around a fire pit as the evening cools. Use your garden design to create inviting spaces for socialising.
10. Capture the Season
Finally, capture the beauty of May in your garden through photography or art. Document the progression of blooms, the play of light and shadows, and the changing colors of foliage. Use these moments as inspiration for future garden designs or as a way to preserve the ephemeral beauty of spring.
May is a magical time in UK gardens, offering a wealth of experiences for garden enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From enjoying blossoms and attending garden exhibitions to planting summer bulbs and designing outdoor living spaces, there’s no shortage of activities to celebrate the arrival of spring. Embrace the essence of garden design, landscaping, and garden architecture as you explore the top 10 things to do in UK gardens this May. Let your garden be a canvas for creativity and a sanctuary for connecting with the natural world.