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Summer weather is finally here. Londoners that are lucky enough to have their own gardens will start spending more time outside in them. Some of them will want to buy new plants and vegetation for their gardens. Gardeners need to understand which plants work best in light and shade, how to maintain them, different types of soil and how to manage pests. Most people have the basic knowledge how to plant an attractive garden, but some might want to create an exquisite garden with vibrant colours and fragrances.

The key to gardening success is planning. When planning, as well as doing the simple tasks like maintaining borders, the following needs to be considered:

• Paths, patios and decking
• Climbers
• Herbs, fruit and vegetables

There are a number of houses in areas such as Wimbledon and Richmond that have large, sprawling gardens that can be designed in various ways.

Today is Earth Day. The aim is to encourage the public to evaluate how green their lifestyle is and to make the necessary changes to benefit the environment. They could start to do so with their homes. Green homes are attainable with just a bit of research, creativity and some of the following innovative products:

•  Solar-powered porch lighting
• Natural home flooring
• Building materials made from fast growing trees (instead of tropical rainforest goods)

A store that is making a name for itself in terms of providing consumers with products for their eco-designed homes is Eco Age (www.eco-age.co.uk). Their vision is to create a shop in which people can find inspiration, ideas, advice, and apply concrete solutions for green living. Some of their products include bamboo computers, recycled pencils and a variety of energy-saving kitchen appliances.

When it comes to furnishing and adding a touch of class to a conservatory, there are broadly two routes to take: a complete contrast or seamless, flowing continuity maintained with the rest of the home. The first adds a dash of intrigue & escapism whereas the latter makes the home feel larger.

Contemporary, glass box conservatories are much less likely to clash with the main structure. It will offer the ideal opportunity and avenue for a perfect blend of outdoor & indoor spaces in eclectic, efficient ways.

Beyond the structure of the conservatory, the style and look of your garden is a crucial factor in how you actually furnish the space. Here are some tips:

• Avoid matched sets of furniture since they look predictable & dated.
• If you are stuck with the same, make an effort to disguise them subtly with slip covers in various, hard wearing and washable materials.
• Add colour and variety with scatter cushions of different sizes and shapes.
• Even if you are the retro type, you need not give your entire home over to it.