Time-saving tips for the busy gardener
Recent research from Gumtree reveals that nearly a third of UK adults say they simply don’t have time for garden upkeep.
But gardening expert Michael Griffiths (@the_mediterranean_gardener), who has 354k Instagram followers, says it’s all about working smarter, not harder.
Pick Low-Maintenance Plants
Choose greenery that practically takes care of itself. Hardy perennials, evergreen shrubs and ornamental grasses need minimal attention and look good year-round. Skip fussy annuals that require constant watering and deadheading. Compact or slow-growing varieties save on pruning, and groundcovers like creeping thyme can fill gaps while suppressing weeds.
Water the Easy Way
Install a drip irrigation system or soaker hose on a timer—especially useful in summer. While it takes effort to set up, it pays off long-term.
Mulching is another simple fix, locking in moisture and keeping roots cool. If using pots, opt for fewer, larger containers that hold moisture longer. Griffiths recommends grouping plants by how thirsty they are to make watering quicker and more efficient.
Weed Little and Often
Weeding is often neglected, but a quick 5–10 minute session once or twice a week can prevent major overgrowth. The trick is to tackle weeds before they flower or set seed.
Use a hoe on dry days or pull weeds after rain when the soil’s soft. Keep a trug handy for quick garden sweeps.
Prune With Purpose
Focus on removing the “three Ds”: dead, diseased, or damaged growth. Don’t aim for perfection—batch tasks like pruning into dedicated sessions, and keep tools sharp for quick, clean cuts.
Choose the Right Plant for the Right Place
Select plants that suit your garden’s light and soil conditions. If a plant’s always struggling, it’s OK to move on.
Fast hacks
Tools: Keep your go-to tools like secateurs, gloves, and twine in a trug or garden caddy so you’re not constantly running back to the shed.
Plan it: A rough garden plan or sketch helps you stay on top of what’s where, and making quick notes on your phone when you plant something saves you re-Googling it every spring.
Shop online: If you shop online for plants you don’t get distracted by something you don’t need.