As we have had a blistering start to summer 2023, we have all spent more time in our gardens and hopefully will do as summer progresses. We are starting a short series of weekly ideas to spruce up your garden in 2023 without robbing the bank!

Week 1: Dramatic paint effect

You'll be surprised how much a lick of paint can transform an old fence and provide a striking backdrop for greenery and jewel-coloured plants. And the colour you should opt for? Black.

'The depth this colour gives is magical for garden designers; paint a fence black, and it disappears, a shed becomes less of an eyesore, and that old bench suddenly becomes a chic focal point,' says Chelsea Flower Show garden designer Andrew Duff.

This is a great garden idea if you want instant impact. Don't forget; you can also give your plant pots a new lease of life by painting them. Make sure to follow us so you do not miss out on next week's idea!