Not everyone has the time (or patience) for constant weeding, mowing, and deadheading – and the good news is, you don’t need to. A well-designed garden can be both beautiful and low-maintenance, offering year-round interest with minimal effort.

At Wicked Gardens, we help homeowners across Lewisham and beyond craft stylish outdoor spaces that suit modern lifestyles – without demanding constant upkeep. Here’s how to design your very own low-maintenance garden that still turns heads.

🌿 1. Choose Plants That Practically Look After Themselves

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Some plants thrive on neglect – and we love them for it. When choosing your planting scheme, opt for hardy, low-maintenance varieties that require little pruning or fuss.

Top picks:

• Lavender – drought-tolerant, bee-friendly and smells wonderful.

• Heuchera – colourful foliage year-round with minimal upkeep.

• Box (Buxus) or Yew – excellent for structure and evergreen appeal.

💡 Wicked Tip: Group plants by water and sunlight needs to make irrigation simpler and reduce stress on your greenery.

🪵 2. Swap High-Maintenance Lawns for Alternatives

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Traditional grass can be time-consuming. If mowing isn’t your thing, consider these alternatives:

• Artificial turf – realistic, long-lasting and virtually maintenance-free.

• Gravel or slate chippings – excellent for modern or minimalist gardens.

• Wildflower meadows – not only low-effort but brilliant for local wildlife.

💡 Wicked Tip: Use stepping stones or decorative paths through gravel to keep it tidy and prevent weeds.

🧱 3. Keep Hard Landscaping Simple and Durable

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Choose materials that age well and require little ongoing care:

• Porcelain paving – weather-resistant and stain-proof.

• Composite decking – doesn’t rot, fade or splinter.

• Rendered walls or raised beds – easy to clean and visually striking.

Avoid wood that needs regular sealing or treatments unless you’re happy with seasonal maintenance.

💧 4. Install Efficient Irrigation

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An automatic or simple irrigation system saves hours of watering. From drip-fed systems to soaker hoses or even water butts connected to your downpipes, the key is watering smarter, not harder.

🌾 5. Embrace Minimalist Garden Design

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Less really can be more. By reducing clutter and focusing on shape, texture, and contrast, you can achieve a sleek look that’s easy to manage. Clean lines, evergreen planting, and thoughtful lighting can elevate even the smallest space.

💡 Wicked Tip: Repeat the same plants in clusters or patterns to create rhythm without complexity.

🏡 Why Go Low-Maintenance?

• Saves time – spend less time working in the garden and more time enjoying it.

• Reduces cost – fewer replacements, less watering, and less equipment needed.

• Supports sustainability – the right plants and smart features mean less waste and more wildlife.

🌱 Let Wicked Gardens Design Your Stress-Free Outdoor Space

We specialise in designing gardens that suit busy lives and modern tastes – spaces that look incredible all year but don’t demand constant attention. Whether you need a family-friendly garden, a modern courtyard, or a retreat for relaxation, we’ll make it easy and effortless to maintain.

📞 Book Your Low-Maintenance Garden Consultation

Let’s create a space that looks after itself – and you.

📍 Based in Lewisham