Gardening glossary

Garden design is the planning of an outdoor space so it works properly and looks balanced, especially between house and garden in typical Kingston and Surbiton plots. It considers layout, levels, movement, privacy, planting, materials, drainage, lighting, long-term maintenance and budget from the start.

Landscaping is the physical work that builds the garden, including groundworks, drainage, paving, walls, fencing, structures, turfing and planting. It includes everything from clay excavation to installing patios and planting beds.

The built, structural parts of a garden such as paving, decking, steps, retaining walls, pergolas and drainage features. Hard landscaping creates the framework before planting softens the space.

The living elements of a garden including trees, shrubs, hedges, lawns, perennials, bulbs, soil preparation and mulching.

Zoning organises gardens into usable areas such as dining, play, lounging, storage and planting. Clear zones help family gardens function without conflict.

Circulation describes how people move through the garden, from patio doors to sheds and seating areas. Good circulation avoids muddy shortcuts and awkward steps.

Sightlines are views through the garden from key positions. Strong sightlines make gardens feel larger and calmer.

Planting inspired by meadows and woodland edges using grasses and perennials for movement and seasonal interest.

Drought-tolerant planting, gravel, terracotta and warm palettes, best suited to free-draining soil and sun.

Calm, controlled spaces using negative space, evergreen structure and carefully placed stones.

Enclosed city gardens with careful scale, lighting, vertical elements and strong materials.

Durable surfaces, clear zones, robust planting and good sightlines designed to survive everyday family life.

Planting and habitat designed to support insects, birds and biodiversity without looking unkempt.

Designed for kerb appeal, access, privacy and drainage, often combining planting with driveways and boundaries.

A pleached tree is trained to form a flat screen of branches on a clear stem, commonly used for privacy and structure above fence height. Much pleached stock in UK gardens is grown in Italy or Belgium and supplied through specialist nurseries.

A hedge is a line of plants clipped or managed to form a boundary or screen, either evergreen or deciduous. Hedges can be softer, more flexible and more wildlife-friendly than solid fencing where space allows.

Topiary refers to plants clipped into shapes such as balls, cones or more formal forms. It provides year-round structure and is often used near entrances and terraces.

A standard tree has a clear stem with the canopy above. It provides shade and structure without blocking ground space or sightlines, making it useful in smaller gardens.

A feathered tree has branches lower down the stem, giving a fuller outline at a smaller overall size. This helps soften boundaries quickly while trees mature.

A multi-stem tree has two or more main stems, creating architectural form and a softer silhouette. Multi-stems are popular as specimen trees in contemporary and naturalistic gardens.

A specimen plant is chosen for standout shape, size or character and used as a focal point within the garden, such as feature trees or sculptural planting.

Evergreen plants retain their leaves year-round and provide essential structure and screening in winter, particularly in front gardens and small courtyards.

Deciduous plants lose their leaves in winter, allowing light through during colder months and often providing autumn colour.

Perennials return year after year, often dying back in winter and regrowing in spring. They provide long flowering periods and texture in planting schemes.

Annuals and bedding plants are grown for seasonal colour and are usually replaced each year. They provide quick impact but require regular replanting.

Bulbs, corms and tubers are planted for seasonal displays, particularly in spring and early summer. Layering bulbs extends flowering periods.

Plant sizes are often described by pot volume such as 3L, 5L, 10L or 20L, and by height ranges measured above soil level.

Bare root plants are supplied without soil, typically during dormancy. They are cost-effective but seasonal and must be planted promptly.

Rootball plants are field-grown and lifted with soil around the roots, commonly used for hedging and trees during the dormant season.

Container-grown plants are sold in pots and are available for longer periods of the year. They are generally easier to establish with correct watering.

The establishment period is when plants settle in and develop roots. Proper soil preparation and watering are critical during this phase.

Mulch is a protective top layer applied to soil to reduce weeds, retain moisture and improve soil health.

Organic materials added to soil to improve structure and fertility. Quality varies significantly between products.

Clean, sharp grit added to planting mixes to improve drainage, particularly for plants that dislike waterlogged roots.

Turf is pre-grown grass supplied in rolls and laid to create an instant lawn. It provides immediate visual impact but requires correct ground preparation and aftercare to establish successfully.

A lawn grown from seed takes longer to establish than turf but can be more cost-effective and adaptable. It allows the use of specialist seed mixes such as shade-tolerant or hard-wearing lawns.

Lawn renovation improves an existing lawn through processes such as scarifying, aeration, overseeding and feeding. This restores density, colour and resilience without full replacement.

Scarifying removes moss and thatch from the lawn surface, allowing air, water and nutrients to reach the soil. It is usually carried out in spring or autumn.

Aeration relieves soil compaction by creating holes in the lawn surface. This improves drainage, root development and overall lawn health, particularly on clay soils.

Top dressing is the application of a fine soil or sand-based mix brushed into the lawn. It helps level uneven surfaces and improves soil structure.

Overseeding involves sowing new grass seed into an existing lawn to improve density and fill bare patches. It is commonly combined with aeration and top dressing.

Lawn feeding supplies essential nutrients to promote healthy growth and colour. Different feeds are used seasonally to encourage growth, root strength or winter resilience.

Correct mowing height is vital for lawn health. Cutting grass too short weakens roots and encourages weeds and moss, while slightly longer grass improves drought tolerance.

Lawns in shaded areas require specialist seed mixes and careful maintenance. Reduced mowing frequency and improved soil preparation are key to success.

Artificial grass is a low-maintenance alternative to natural turf. While it removes mowing and watering, it does not provide the cooling, drainage or ecological benefits of real grass.

Hard landscaping refers to the built elements of a garden, including paving, walls, steps, decking, seating and structures. These elements form the backbone of a garden and define layout, circulation and levels.

Soft landscaping includes all planting, lawns and soil preparation. It brings life, movement and seasonal interest to the hard landscape framework.

A sub-base is the compacted foundation layer beneath paving, patios or decking, typically constructed from MOT Type 1. It provides stability, load-bearing strength and long-term durability.

MOT Type 1 is a crushed limestone or granite aggregate used as a sub-base. It compacts tightly and creates a strong, free-draining foundation for paving and driveways.

Sharp sand is a coarse sand used for laying paving and mixing concrete. It offers better drainage and strength than soft building sand.

Concrete is a mixture of cement, sand and aggregate used for foundations, footings and structural elements. Correct mix ratios are essential for strength and longevity.

Mortar is used to bond masonry such as bricks or stone. Different mortar mixes are selected depending on strength requirements and the materials being joined.

Porcelain paving is a manufactured slab with very low porosity. It is stain-resistant, frost-proof and low maintenance, making it popular for contemporary patios.

Natural stone paving includes materials such as sandstone, limestone and granite. Each stone has natural variation in colour and texture, creating a softer, more traditional appearance.

Sandstone is a popular paving stone available in a wide range of colours. It provides a natural look and works well in both traditional and contemporary garden designs.

Limestone has a more uniform appearance than sandstone and is often chosen for clean, elegant gardens. It can weather over time, developing a softer patina.

Setts are small rectangular stone blocks used for edging, driveways or decorative detailing. They add texture and a sense of traditional craftsmanship.

Decking creates level or raised seating areas and is useful on sloping sites. Materials include natural timber and composite boards, each with different maintenance requirements.

Composite decking is manufactured from a mix of recycled plastic and wood fibres. It offers a uniform appearance and reduced maintenance compared to timber decking.

Timber decking provides a warm, natural finish but requires regular cleaning and treatment to prevent weathering and algae build-up.

A retaining wall holds back soil on sloping sites to create level areas. Proper drainage and structural design are essential for long-term stability.

Garden drainage refers to systems used to manage excess water and prevent waterlogging. Effective drainage protects plant health, lawn performance and the longevity of hard landscaping.

Poor drainage occurs when water cannot move freely through the soil, often due to heavy clay, compaction or incorrect ground levels. Common signs include standing water, mossy lawns and plant failure.

A French drain is a gravel-filled trench containing a perforated pipe that redirects excess water away from lawns, borders or buildings. It is a common solution for persistently wet gardens.

A soakaway is an underground structure that collects surface water and allows it to disperse slowly into surrounding soil. It is often used for roof runoff or patio drainage.

Surface water management involves shaping ground levels and installing channels or permeable surfaces to direct water safely away from buildings, seating areas and lawns.

Permeable paving allows water to drain through joints or surfaces into the ground below, reducing surface runoff and helping gardens comply with drainage regulations.

An irrigation system provides controlled watering to lawns, borders and planters. It supports healthy plant establishment and reduces water stress during dry periods.

Drip irrigation delivers water slowly and directly to plant roots via discreet tubing. It is highly water-efficient and ideal for borders, pots and raised beds.

Pop-up sprinklers rise from the ground during operation and retract afterwards. They are commonly used for lawn irrigation and provide even water coverage.

Automated irrigation systems use timers and sensors to adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, improving water efficiency and plant health.

Water efficiency focuses on using the minimum amount of water required for healthy planting. Mulching, correct plant choice and efficient irrigation design all contribute.

Establishment watering refers to the intensive watering period after planting. This is critical during the first growing season while roots develop.

Garden lighting enhances safety, usability and atmosphere after dark. Well-designed lighting highlights planting, structures and circulation routes without overwhelming the space.

Low-voltage lighting systems are commonly used in gardens as they are safer, energy-efficient and flexible. Multiple fittings can be powered from a single transformer.

LED lighting uses significantly less energy than traditional bulbs and has a long lifespan. It is now the standard choice for outdoor garden lighting installations.

Uplighting places light at ground level to illuminate trees, walls or architectural features from below. It creates drama and depth within a garden at night.

Downlighting is mounted above ground, often in trees, pergolas or structures, to cast soft pools of light. It is effective for pathways and seating areas.

Spike lights are adjustable fittings pushed into soil or borders, allowing flexible positioning to highlight shrubs, grasses and smaller trees.

Recessed lights are installed flush into paving, steps or decking. They provide subtle guidance lighting and help reduce trip hazards.

Feature lighting draws attention to focal points such as specimen trees, water features or sculptures. It should be balanced with ambient lighting to avoid glare.

Lighting zones allow different areas of the garden to be controlled independently. This improves flexibility, atmosphere and energy efficiency.

Timers, photocells and smart controls automate garden lighting operation. They ensure lights run only when required and improve convenience.

Garden electrical cabling must be correctly rated, buried at safe depths and installed in line with UK regulations to ensure safety and long-term durability.

A garden room is a standalone insulated structure used as an office, gym, studio or leisure space. It extends usable living space into the garden and is designed for year-round use.

A garden office is purpose-built for working from home, typically including insulation, power, lighting and data connections to allow comfortable all-season use.

A pergola is an open framework structure that provides shade and definition over seating or pathways. Pergolas can support climbing plants or incorporate retractable canopies.

A gazebo is a freestanding covered structure that offers shelter and a focal point within the garden. It is often used for seating or outdoor entertaining.

A canopy provides overhead shelter and may be fixed or retractable. It is commonly attached to buildings or pergolas to protect from sun and rain.

An outdoor kitchen includes cooking, preparation and storage facilities designed for external use. It extends entertaining opportunities during warmer months.

A firepit provides warmth and a social focal point in the garden. Designs range from simple freestanding bowls to built-in masonry features.

Water features introduce sound and movement into the garden, creating a calming atmosphere. Options include fountains, rills and reflecting pools.

A pond adds visual interest and supports wildlife. Careful design is required to ensure safety, water quality and ease of maintenance.

Raised beds elevate planting areas above ground level, improving drainage and accessibility. They are commonly constructed from timber, brick or stone.

Built-in seating and furniture maximise space efficiency and create cohesive design features. Materials are typically chosen to match surrounding hard landscaping.

Garden maintenance is the ongoing care required to keep a garden healthy, safe and visually appealing. This includes lawn care, pruning, weeding, feeding, and seasonal tasks.

Aftercare refers to the period immediately following garden installation when plants, lawns and hard landscaping require close attention to establish successfully.

The establishment period is the first 12–24 months after planting, during which plants develop strong root systems. Correct watering and monitoring are critical during this time.

Pruning is the selective removal of plant growth to improve health, shape, flowering or fruiting. Timing varies depending on plant species and desired outcome.

Weeding removes unwanted plants that compete with cultivated planting for water, nutrients and light. Regular weeding prevents problems becoming established.

Mulching involves applying organic or mineral material to the soil surface. It helps retain moisture, suppress weeds and improve soil structure over time.

Seasonal maintenance adapts garden tasks to the time of year, such as spring feeding, summer watering, autumn leaf clearance and winter pruning.

Winter protection shields vulnerable plants and features from frost, wind and water damage. This may include mulching, fleece wrapping or adjusting irrigation systems.

Regular irrigation checks ensure systems are functioning correctly, delivering water efficiently and adjusting schedules in response to seasonal weather changes.

Long-term garden management plans ahead for plant maturity, soil health and evolving garden use. It ensures the garden improves with age rather than declines.

An initial consultation is the first meeting to discuss your garden, requirements, budget and timescales. It allows the designer to understand how the space is used and what problems need solving.

A site survey records key information such as levels, boundaries, access, drainage, services and existing features. Accurate surveys are essential for reliable design and construction.

Concept design establishes the overall layout, style and structure of the garden. It usually includes a scaled plan showing zones, circulation and key features.

Detailed design translates the concept into buildable information, including materials, dimensions, construction details and planting plans.

A planting plan specifies plant types, quantities, sizes and positions. It considers soil conditions, aspect, maintenance requirements and seasonal interest.

Construction drawings provide precise technical information for builders, including levels, foundations, drainage and detailing.

A specification sets out materials, workmanship standards and installation methods. It ensures clarity and consistency during construction.

A programme outlines the sequence and timing of works. It helps coordinate trades and manage expectations during the build.

Design and build combines design and construction under one contract. This can streamline communication and reduce delays.

Practical completion marks the point at which the garden is substantially finished and ready for use, subject to minor snagging items.

Sustainable landscaping considers the long-term environmental impact of garden design and construction. It focuses on water efficiency, biodiversity, material longevity and responsible sourcing.

Biodiversity refers to the variety of plant and animal life within a garden. Increasing biodiversity supports pollinators, birds and beneficial insects while creating a healthier ecosystem.

Native planting uses species that naturally occur in the local environment. These plants are often more resilient and provide better support for local wildlife.

Water conservation aims to reduce unnecessary water use through efficient irrigation, drought-tolerant planting and improved soil structure.

Rainwater harvesting collects and stores rainwater for garden use. It reduces reliance on mains water and supports sustainable irrigation practices.

Permeable surfaces allow water to drain naturally into the ground, reducing runoff and helping to manage surface water responsibly.

Reclaimed materials are salvaged from previous projects and reused. They reduce waste and can add character and authenticity to a garden design.

Soil health is central to sustainable gardening. Healthy soils support strong root systems, retain moisture and reduce the need for chemical inputs.

Composting recycles organic garden waste into nutrient-rich material that improves soil structure and fertility.

Low-maintenance design reduces ongoing inputs of water, labour and materials. It considers plant selection, layout and materials that age well over time.

Professional bodies provide guidance, accreditation and standards for landscape professionals. Membership demonstrates commitment to quality, ethics and ongoing professional development.

British Standards set recognised benchmarks for materials, workmanship and safety. Referencing relevant standards helps ensure consistent quality and performance.

Specification compliance ensures materials and installation methods match the agreed design documents. This protects both client expectations and long-term durability.

Manufacturer guidance provides instructions for correct installation, use and maintenance of products. Following this guidance is essential for warranties to remain valid.

Approved suppliers are trusted sources for plants, materials and products. Using reputable suppliers helps ensure quality, consistency and availability.

Plant nurseries grow and supply plants to specified sizes and standards. Reliable nurseries support plant health, provenance and correct identification.

Quality assurance involves checking materials, workmanship and installation against agreed standards throughout the project lifecycle.

Warranties and guarantees cover materials or workmanship for a defined period. They provide reassurance and protection following project completion.

This glossary has been created to help explain the language used in garden design, landscaping and maintenance. It is intended to support informed conversations, clearer decisions and realistic expectations throughout a project.

All definitions are written in plain English to avoid unnecessary jargon. Where technical terms are unavoidable, they are explained in a practical, real-world context.

Understanding common terms helps prevent misunderstandings during design, pricing and construction. Clear language supports smoother projects and better outcomes.

Using a shared vocabulary allows design decisions to be discussed objectively, balancing aesthetics, performance, budget and long-term maintenance.

This glossary is designed to be revisited throughout a project and beyond. As gardens mature and needs change, many of these terms remain relevant.

If a term is unclear or you would like advice tailored to your own garden, it is always best to discuss this directly with a professional who understands your site and requirements.