Tips from the garden.

Coastal gardens need a little attention in every season. In autumn, clear fallen leaves from lawns and garden beds before they trap moisture, then top up mulch so roots stay protected through cooler weather.

Winter is the right time to prune many shrubs, tidy hedges and check drainage around paths, retaining edges and low spots. Once spring arrives, focus on feeding, weed control and shaping new growth before it gets away from you.

Through summer, mow a little higher, water deeply in the morning where restrictions allow, and keep an eye on wind burn from salt air. A steady maintenance rhythm keeps the garden healthier than one big clean-up at the end of the season.

Start by removing weeds and thatch so water and nutrients can reach the soil. A light rake, spot treatment and a tidy edge around paths or garden beds can make the whole lawn look more cared for straight away.

Before the hottest weeks arrive, feed the lawn with a suitable slow-release fertiliser and water it in well. If there are thin patches, aerate compacted areas and overseed while the soil is warm enough to support strong new growth.

During summer, avoid cutting the grass too short. Keeping a bit more blade length helps shade the soil, reduces stress and gives your lawn a better chance of staying green between visits.

Timber decking has a natural warmth that suits many coastal homes, but it needs regular oiling, cleaning and checks for movement. In exposed areas, salt air, sun and wind can speed up wear if maintenance is skipped.

Composite decking is generally lower maintenance and can be a practical choice for holiday homes or busy households. It will not need the same oiling routine, though good installation, ventilation and correct board spacing still matter.

The best choice depends on the look you want, how much upkeep you are comfortable with and where the deck sits on the property. A shaded courtyard, a windy balcony and a poolside area can all need different materials and fixing details.

Garden maintenance pricing depends on more than the size of the block. Access, green waste, slope, plant density, lawn condition and the amount of hand work required can all change the time and equipment needed for the job.

A regular maintenance visit is usually more efficient than a once-off rescue clean-up because the garden stays under control. Overgrown lawns, heavy pruning and large green waste loads take longer and may require extra removal costs.

That is why an on-site look is so useful. It lets us understand the real condition of the property, talk through priorities and recommend a maintenance schedule that suits the garden instead of guessing from photos alone.