When it comes to property appeal, first impressions really do count—and often, the first thing people notice is the garden.
A well-designed and maintained garden or planting scheme does not just look good—it can actually add value to your property. On the flip side, neglected greenery can reduce its appeal and worth. Whether you are a resident, Property Manager, or part of a resident committee, investing in your outdoor space pays off.
The Right Plant in the Right Place
One of the most common (and costly) gardening mistakes is choosing the wrong plant for the location. Plants that struggle in their environment—wilting, yellowing, or failing to bloom—are a sign that something is not right.
Not sure what grows well in your area? Take a walk around the neighbourhood. Local gardens will give you clues about what thrives in your soil type and microclimate. You can also test your soil using simple kits or the DIY jam jar method—mix soil with water, let it settle, and observe the layers to identify whether it’s clay, chalk, sandy, or loamy.
Rooftop Gardens: Green Space in the Sky
Urban blocks without ground-level gardens are increasingly turning to rooftop planting. While these spaces can offer stunning views and much-needed greenery, proper waterproofing and insulation are essential to avoid long-term structural issues like water ingress. Done to a high standard, rooftop gardens provide residents with a peaceful escape, communal space, and a boost to property aesthetics.
Planters: Small-Scale Greening with Big Impact
No garden? No problem. Planters can be a great alternative—provided they are permitted by the lease and do not pose safety risks. Keep in mind: pots need care. Without regular watering, feeding, and pruning, they will quickly become unsightly.
Fortunately, some plant species thrive on minimal attention—perfect for busy developments or where a full-time gardener is not available.
Choose Plants That Stay Healthy
Certain plants, like Buxus sempervirens (common box), may look great but are prone to disease and pests, such as box blight and box moth or caterpillars (Cydalima perspectalis). These problems have devastated box hedging in areas like Putney, but alternatives do exist. Disease-resistant varieties and other evergreen shrubs offer attractive, low-risk options.
More Than Just Looks: Gardens That Give Back
A thoughtful planting scheme does more than beautify your block—it creates a mini-ecosystem. Flowers can attract bees and butterflies, while berries provide food for birds. Trees and shrubs offer shade, reduce noise, and improve privacy.
Some plants even offer culinary and medicinal benefits, and being around greenery has been proven to support mental well-being. A low-maintenance garden can achieve all this while keeping service charges in check—especially if there’s a hands-on resident or gardening committee involved.
Practical Tips for a Thriving Garden
- Watch your plants. Chlorotic or Yellowing leaves or poor growth often mean a plant needs relocating or that the soil is not acid enough for ericaceous plants—preferably during the dormant season.
- Propagate wisely. Take cuttings, sow grass seed, or divide perennials to expand your garden without increasing costs.
- Be careful with trees. Avoid planting large species close to buildings. Invasive roots from trees like weeping willows can damage drains and foundations. Fallen leaves can clog gutters and create slip hazards—schedule seasonal maintenance to stay ahead.
Need Help? Trust the Experts
At JCF, we work with a trusted list of experienced gardeners and tree surgeons who understand the unique challenges of communal and urban gardens. Their work speaks for itself.
Great Gardens Start Small
You do not need a sprawling landscape to make an impact. With the right approach and a bit of care, even the humblest outdoor space can become a green haven for everyone to enjoy.
If you are looking to improve your property’s outdoor appeal or need guidance on planting schemes and maintenance, we are here to help. Because when it comes to property value and resident satisfaction—first impressions really do matter.
This blog post was provided by Katrina Verdon-Roe, RHS Stage II General Certificate in Horticulture pass with Credit.
