7 Tips to Keep Your Garden Clean and Tidy

Your garden should feel like a place to breathe. A tidy outdoor space makes it easier to relax, enjoy a coffee, and switch off from the noise of the city.

The good news is you don’t need to spend all weekend outside to keep things looking sharp. A few small weekly habits go a long way.

If you’d rather keep your garden looking this way year-round without doing it all yourself, our garden maintenance service in South East London can help.

7 Easy Garden Maintenance Tips for a Tidy, Healthy Garden

1. Water and mow your lawn the right way

A neat lawn instantly makes the whole garden look better.

• Water: aim for deep watering when the soil is dry, ideally early morning so less moisture evaporates.
• Mow: mow regularly during peak growth, but avoid cutting too short. A good rule is to mow when grass reaches around 5–6 cm.

If your lawn is patchy, soggy, or hard to keep under control, professional lawn care and mowing can save a lot of time.

2. Remove weeds early (it’s easier than you think)

Weeds spread fast, especially in flower beds and along borders.

• In beds: pull weeds out at the root while the soil is slightly damp.

• Between paving: use a patio scraper or spot-treat with a weed killer suitable for paving, following label instructions carefully.

Tip: staying on top of weeds weekly is much easier than a big clear-out later. If weeds and overgrowth have already built up, a one-off garden clearance can reset everything quickly so weekly upkeep is easier.

3. Trim hedges and tidy edges

Hedges can grow quickly in spring and summer, and once they look messy, the whole garden can feel untidy.

• Light trims more often usually look better than one heavy cut.
• Shape all sides, not just the top, and keep an eye on overhang.

For taller hedges, use the right tools and avoid stretching or working unsafely. Our hedge trimming service can handle it safely and keep everything neat.

Statues, planters, and ornaments collect dirt, algae, and mould over time.

A quick clean with warm soapy water and a stiff brush usually brings them back to life. It’s a small task that makes the whole garden look more polished.

5. Pressure wash patios, decking, and hard surfaces

Patios, paths, and decking build up algae and grime, especially in shaded areas. This can look bad and also become slippery.

A pressure wash helps remove dirt and refresh surfaces quickly. If you do this seasonally, it prevents staining and makes the space feel “new” again.

Our patio cleaning service can restore patios, paths, and decking safely.

6. Clear fallen leaves and garden debris

Leaves don’t just look messy. They hold moisture, create slippery surfaces, and can smother grass.

• Rake or blow leaves off lawns, decking, and paths

• Clear corners where debris builds up

• Keep drains and channels free so water flows away properly

This is especially important in autumn and after storms. If water tends to sit on your lawn or patio after rain, see our guide on poor drainage (what to do in South East London).

7. Prune shrubs and remove dead growth

Shrubs and climbers like ivy need occasional pruning to stay healthy and avoid spreading problems.

• Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches
• Cut back growth that’s blocking light or airflow
• Dispose of diseased material rather than composting it

Regular pruning helps plants stay healthier and reduces the risk of disease spreading.

If you’re working around long grass or dense shrubs, the NaTHNac has practical advice on tick bite prevention.