The outdoor room you never knew you had
 

For gardeners who also enjoy entertaining, having a night garden where they can receive guests is the perfect way to combine their two hobbies. But this kind of garden varies from a regular garden in key ways. From using outdoor lighting to create atmosphere to knowing which plants will work best in a night garden, the planning and execution of the perfect nocturnal patch is an intricate process. But once you discover that you’ve added to the potential space that you have for parties and gatherings, you’ll be glad you invested the time and energy. Here’s how to make your garden the outdoor room you never knew you had.

Find out where the moon will be most prominent

Moonlight should factor prominently when you are deciding upon the placement of your garden, so do a “lighting” test for several nights out of the month to see where the illumination from the moon is strongest on your property.

Pick wilted flowers often

Getting rid of flowers or plants that have shriveled will only make more grow in their place. This is an important maintenance tip since a night garden relies on thick foliage more than a daytime garden would.  It’s easier for your garden to appear sparse in a dark setting, so make sure to encourage constant growth.

Use colour

The fact that your garden will be enjoyed primary under the cloak of moonlight is even more reason to use colour as a defining element. Crisp whites as well as bright reds, pinks, oranges and violets will transform with different kinds of light, making your garden come alive once the sun sets. You can also add texture; light dances off of the shiny leaves of tropical plants, making them perfect for a night garden.

Create a lighted path

An illuminated entry path creates a tastefully festive atmosphere, but it’s also a safety must-have. To help guide your guests to your planted oasis, install gravel or stone walkway and add small lights on either side of the path. Make sure to keep them staggered to avoid lighting that looks too orchestrated or organised.

Use low-voltage bulbs

These bulbs not only save energy, but they are less likely to overheat, making them a safer bet if you have pets. Low-voltage light also creates a pleasant glow similar to natural sunlight, instead of a harsh spotlight. Remember to use several fixtures instead of one large one to add dimension and cover more area with light.

Use night-blooming plants

Plants that bloom at night, such as blue zephyr or star jasmine, are perfect for an outdoor entertainment space because they also release floral scents at night. The cooler evening air will work excellently for carrying the fragrance of your flowers and make sure that your garden appeals to all the senses.

Add a water feature

Speaking of senses, the sounds of a water feature can be the piece-de-resistance, adding a serene symphony of calming sounds. You can also incorporate your lighting scheme into a water feature by getting a small illuminated fountain.

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