Ways to Create Shade in Your Garden



shade solutions, home and garden
The weather pundits have predicted a blistering heat wave is on its way but much as we all love a bit of sunshine, sizzling in the soaring high temperatures is neither enjoyable nor healthy without access to some shade.

No Natural Shade in Your Garden?


Not all gardens are blessed with trees that are big enough to offer sanctuary from the sun, so here are a few ideas on ways in which to add the cool factor to your garden!



Ways to Create Shade in Your Garden 

 A garden is a place of tranquillity, but during the height of summer, the sun can make it less enjoyable. Creating shade not only makes your outdoor space more comfortable but also helps protect plants and furniture from excessive heat. Here are some effective ways to add shade to your garden:


 Plant Trees for Natural Shade

If you are planning on living in the property for a while, trees are one of the best ways to create shade naturally. Deciduous trees, such as maples and birches, provide shade in the summer while allowing sunlight through in the winter. If you need faster results, opt for fast-growing trees like willow or poplar.



shade solutions, home and garden

Garden Shelters for Shade!


The Retreat Wooden Garden Shelter is the ideal find for shade seekers. The contemporary shelter has been designed using Jacksons’ popular Venetian panels to create a stunningly stylish focus point for your outdoor space, with the horizontal pales casting dramatic bands of light and shade whilst you relax in the ultimate chill-out zone.



Pergolas for Shade


A carefully positioned double pergola can work wonders in terms of creating welcome shade in the garden, especially if you can add fast growing climbing plants capable of delivering a living roof!


Wooden Pergola to create shade


Use Shade Sails, Canopies or a Parasol

Shade sails are an excellent modern option, offering flexibility in design and coverage. They are easy to install and can be adjusted to block the sun at different angles. Retractable canopies also provide adjustable shade depending on the time of day.

We mentioned them just in case they hadn’t crossed your mind. A standard parasol or umbrella is an excellent shade solution. Plus, they have the added advantage of being easily movable, as shown in the image below.

Grow a Living Wall or use Fence Panels for Shade

Planting a living wall with tall shrubs or climbing plants can provide a natural barrier against the sun while adding greenery and biodiversity to your space. Bamboo screens or ivy-covered trellises are popular choices for achieving this effect.  Fence panels can be used to create shade at certain times of day.  They also double up to reduce wind.

Fence Panels used to Create Shade


Create a Green Roof

For an eco-friendly shading option, consider a green roof on a pergola or shed. Planting sedum or other hardy vegetation on a rooftop helps absorb heat and provides a cooling effect underneath.


Safe Swimming


For those fortunate souls with a swimming pool in their back garden, the quickest way to cool down is to jump in! Always remember the safety hazards associated with water, especially if you have young children in the home. A timber garden deck around the pool will be less slippery when wet than paving (and warmer too) and by creating a robust balustrade surround; you can introduce controlled access to the water. Alternatively you can screen off with a regular timber or metal fence but be aware of the dangers of siting the fence too close to the water. If a child does try and scale the fence you need to take steps to ensure that they don’t fall directly into the swimming pool.

Creating shade in your garden enhances its usability, making it a relaxing retreat even in hot weather. Whether through natural planting or structural additions, there are plenty of ways to introduce shade while improving the beauty and comfort of your outdoor space.

Updated in September 2024




photo credit: zharth via photopin cc

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