Patch of neglected garden

rosie.sisson

I have a section of garden, away from the house which is unmanaged and leads into a little patio which we never use. I have no idea what to do with this space. We had to take a dead tree out and I tried to do a veg patch but it was really unsuccessful. I have thought about a cutting garden or fruit trees. I want it to be virtually maintenance free because I don't go there often and I spend a lot of time on the rest of my garden. Any thoughts or ideas which are not too expensive or time consuming? Thanks, Rosie

Lizzie27

Sorry Rosie, there's too much shade in the photo to see properly, would it be possible to post another one or is the patch always like that?

rosie.sisson

I think that I might need to take one in the morning when it is in the sun. It is hard to see it from the picture. 

Lizzie27

Many thanks, that would make it easier to advise.

AnniD

There's a few ideas here about creating a cut flower patch which might help. You need to put in some time to prepare the soil etc. but good preparation is the key to success 
https://www.greatbritishlife.co.uk/homes-and-gardens/gardening/how-to-create-the-perfect-cutting-garden-7208066

K67

Us with small gardens have to utilise every inch so a bit you don't bother with is such a luxury but Is the reason you do not use this area because its so uninviting?
Do you want to make a 'go to' area to rather than a 'no go' part as this will help with ideas for your space.  
Along with your better photo can you tell us the size, sun levels and soil condition please 

rosie.sisson

You are right it is a massive luxury and it is bigger than my whole garden in our previous house but it is a bit out of the way here and far less inviting than other parts of the garden. It is about 3.5metres by 7metres  north-easterly facing but because the house is a bungalow the shading isn't too bad in the summer, and there is a lovely view from it (not visible from the rest of the garden) so it would be nice for it to be a 'go to' area. Will post some better pictures tomorrow. Thanks all.

Lizzie27

I'm already thinking a 'secret' sitting nook then, overlooking the view and being surrounded by tallish shrubs so you can't be seen - lovely place to read a book or snooze in a hammock maybe?

rosie.sisson

I'm not sure that these updated images are any more helpful not least because they are on the side. I've tried to rotate them but not managed. The patio bit is 5 steps down from the rest of the garden area and also weed-ridden. Any suggestions would be so welcome. I am happy to work hard at it but I need a plan because it feels overwhelming and every time I clear it without a real plan, I'm back to square one. Thanks, Rosie

Fire

Crop the photos slightly and they will load straight.

The area seems to have loads of potential - a 'secret garden' feel.

rosie.sisson

So after all of that,I have put a wildlife pond in and am going to accept the weeds as essential for wildlife. We bought a remolded pond and then I added an upturned plant pot for me to sit on and watch the wildlife. It still looks a bit scruffy but it is now definitely a 'go to' area for me. Thanks for the advice. You asked the right questions. I have planted up with unwanted plants from other parts of the garden and included another broken pot for toads and hedgehogs just in case there are any around here.