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Safety first in the garden

Carmel Thomason
7/ 7/2008

IF you garden for pleasure, you'll probably have already found that it's a hobby which can benefit both your physical and mental well-being. It may look like simply pottering but a stint of weekend gardening can involve a range of exercises from stretching and weight-lifting to a moderate cardiovascular workout.

From weeding to digging, planting to mowing the lawn, gardening covers a range of physical exertion levels, for all ages to enjoy. Spending focused time outdoors in the fresh air has also been found to help those with mental health problems. And after all that hard work, coupled with a bit of sunshine, the garden can become the perfect place to wind down in peace.

Unfortunately, when it comes to our outdoor spaces many still see gardening as outdoor housework, keeping it relatively tidy only because it's a place where the children can run around under a watchful eye.

We've all seen these extremes - from the flower beds manicured to within a blade of their life, banishing all family fun, to the full-on play zones which have become a litter of plastic frames and toys.

But as Scott Unwin, manager of Marshalls Gardens & Driveways Display Centre at Bramhall, explains a garden doesn't have to be one or the other and, with a bit of careful planning, can become that much needed extra room with something for everyone to enjoy.

"The key to any successful family garden is to recognise that your outdoor space will need to cater for the demands of family life and will consequently need to fulfil a number of uses," he says. "The priority for most families is to incorporate a safe play zone and a comfortable eating area contained within a patio, with, of course, the ubiquitous splash of greenery courtesy of lawns, trees, hedging and planting displays.

"The challenge, therefore, is how to create a desirable space for children without compromising on the additional functional and aesthetic requirements of the adult. For example, whereas children may view the garden as their creative play area, most parents like to think of their outdoor space as a form of sanctuary, somewhere to unwind and relax. And while the kids may think there's nothing wrong with the array of toys strewn across the entire garden, parents meanwhile will be bemoaning the loss of their longed for stylish outdoor room."

Scott believes that a harmonious solution doesn't need to be difficult or expensive as long as you plan your garden carefully before you spend, remembering to take into account any important safety issues.

"If your garden is hedged, it will need to be checked regularly for gaps and, for complete safety, you might want to run chicken wire down the base of a hedge if it isn't bush all the way to the ground, to keep children in," he advises.

"Secure, robust fencing and a well fitted gate are also vital to keep your kids within the safe confines of the garden.

"Take a good look at any walling which may feature in your outdoor space - if there is any hint of crumbling which could ultimately lead to a collapse consider investing in fresh, new walled boundaries.

"Don't worry if you are concerned that a new wall will look out of place - aged brick and authentic replica traditional rustic walling products are now readily available to ensure the wall complements your property.

"Take a good look at the condition of the paving in your garden. Always ensure paving is laid properly by a professional, especially on steps. Be aware that you'll need to keep your borders trimmed back from paths so that any sharp leaves or thorns don't become entangled in smaller children's clothes, hair or possibly faces and eyes as they walk, run or ride past. If you have small children avoid prickly or thorny shrubs as they tend to be at head height for little ones.

"Beware of dangerous plants in the garden and educate the children on the hazards of eating them. Some plants feature sharp stems which are quite capable of delivering a nasty cut, such as pampas grass, whilst the pointy leaves and thorns of holly or roses can also be painful."

Once the basic safety issues have been taken care of, Scott then suggests creating an area in which children can create their own adventures by installing climbing equipment or a playhouse. However, be careful where you position these features - they should be well away from concreted areas and not too close to walls, fences or large bushes. Ideally, you should site any play equipment on a dedicated play surface.

To find out more about the Marshalls Gardens & Driveways service call 0161 440 2150 or visit marshalls.co.uk/transform