A well-planned path guides you through the garden and ties it together. Here's the simple way to plan and lay one.
Created by jflgardens.co.uk
A garden path does more than carry you from A to B – it sets the route you walk, the views you take in and the whole structure of the garden. Plan it well and lay it competently, and it becomes a defining feature.
Walk the most natural line between the places you actually use – the gate, the door, the lawn, the seating area. A slightly curved path feels relaxed; a straight one formal. Plan the route to gentle demand, and widen it where people will stand.
Stepping stones or gravel suit an informal, planted garden; paved or brick paths suit a more formal or high-traffic route. Match the path to how it's used and the style of the garden, and consider how it'll look in rain, shade and at dusk, not just in sunshine.
The secret to a path that lasts is the sub-base. Excavate to the right depth, lay a firm, compacted hardcore base, add a layer of sharp sand, and set your paving level and true. Skimp on the base and even beautiful paving will settle, sink or heave.
A clean edge keeps gravel in and grass out, and stops a path merging into the lawn. Fill the joints, sweep in bedding sand, and give it time to bed in. A well-edged path immediately looks purposeful rather than ad-hoc.
From landscaping to a full landscaping-style overhaul, the JFL Gardens team works across Surrey and London.
