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Guide to Blooming Planters: What to Plant and When
As summer peaks, there is no better time to refresh your garden with bold colour, texture and scent. Whether you have a small balcony, a patio or a cosy courtyard, our planters offer instant impact, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes. From growing your own herbs and fruits, to creating a luxury vertical display, the right planter can completely transform your space. Explore our top garden tips below for creating the perfect planter set up. Finding the right planter for your space Once you have assessed your space, it’s time to start thinking about where your planter will live and what role you want it to play. For balconies, choose our small planter size to maximise space. For taller, more spacious balconies, choose the option of adding a narrow decorative screen to your planter for a more modern look. For patios, choose a slightly bigger size to add privacy, structure or style to your space. Pair our medium planters with our smaller or large planters for added dimension. For larger garden spaces and courtyards, use multiple sized planters, paired with our decorative screens. Fix the screens at the back or in the centre of the planter. Our planters can also be ordered with a wheeled base, making them the perfect, convenient option for versatility in your garden. Styling your planter A well-styled planter creates impact, even before anything blooms! Try these expert tips: Group for impact: Odd-numbered grouping or different sized planters tend to give your garden a more natural and balanced look. Pair our medium planters with our large or smaller planters in odd numbers, such as groups of three or five. Stick to a palette: Sticking to two or three complementary colours gives your garden a more sophisticated, sleek look. Play with texture: Mix smooth succulents with leafy ferns or soft petal flowers, creating depth. What to plant Summer offers a generous planting window. Add pops of colour and invite nature into your garden with the following choices: Sun-loving blooms: Petunias, verbena, geraniums, and marigolds Shade-friendly plants: Impatiens, coleus, hostas, and fuchsias Fragrance-first options: Lavender, sweet peas, jasmine, and lemon thyme Bee & butterfly magnets: Salvia, cosmos, snapdragons, and scabiosa Don’t forget, regular deadheading and watering early or late in the day will help keep blooms coming. Grow your own fruit A planter garden isn’t just about flowers. You can grow fresh, delicious produce too - even in the smallest space. Strawberries are great for hanging or raised plants and dwarf tomatoes are perfect for compact sizing and manageable growth habits. Herbs such as basil, chives, mint and rosemary all do brilliantly in planters. Chillies and peppers are easy to grow, and lettuce and salad leaves grow fast and don’t need deep soil. Top Tip: Place fruiting plants in full sun and feed with a high-potash fertiliser every 10–14 days. Seasonal Styling Our planters are not just for summer, they’re an all year round feature when styled right. Unlike wooden planters, our composite planters are low maintenance and will not be needing a repaint in the future. For autumn, add ornamental cabbages, heuchera, mini pumpkins, and trailing ivy to bring autumnal charm and colour to your space. In winter, go evergreen with holly, dwarf conifers, pansies, or skimmia. Add fairy lights for festive charm. Spring is the perfect time to pre-fill your planters with bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths so they can bloom over the spring and fill your garden with colour come summer. Think ahead - You can swap inserts or rotate planter contents to keep your display fresh year-round. Choose our wheel-bases for easy movement all year round. Ready to create your perfect planter moment? Explore the full Charles and Ivy planter collection and discover how a few well-placed blooms can transform your space. Shop our planters now.
How to Create a Safe and Stylish Garden for the School Holidays
As the school holidays approach, turn your home into the perfect spot for play, relaxation and making memories. Upgrade your space with thought and create a space that’s not only safe for children, but also stylish and welcoming for the whole family. Here’s how to create the perfect balance. Keep Your Garden Secure with a High-Quality Gate Security is just as important as play, and a well-chosen gate adds both function and a polished finish to your outdoor space. Installing a good quality gate at access points helps keep out intruders and protect your home. Use our Driveway and Pedestrian Gates, adding our Digital Handles for better security. Whether you're choosing a modern composite gate to match your fencing or a durable aluminium design, you can deter unwanted entry without compromising on style. Style Meets Practicality Safety doesn’t mean compromising on design. Use Decorative Screened Fencing to section off areas or create stylish backdrops for planting, lights, or outdoor furniture. With our low-maintenance materials, our products are made to withstand all weather conditions and still look great year-round. Add comfortable seating, warm lighting, and a mix of textures like soft cushions and natural greenery to keep the space inviting for adults too. Create a low maintenance relaxation area With the right planning, your garden can become a go-to destination during the school holidays, safe enough for the kids to enjoy freely, and stylish enough for you to unwind in. Whether it’s a quiet morning coffee spot or a weekend family BBQ zone, creating a well-balanced outdoor space will pay off all summer long. Our composite slat wall panels are the perfect solution for creating a low maintenance outdoor kitchen or dining area. Their weatherproof properties mean there’s no need to worry about unpredictable British summertime ruining the look of your outdoor space! Keep your garden safe with good quality fencing Replace your worn out fencing with our composite or aluminium styles, ensuring that your children's play area is kept safe and restricted so they can roam and play freely. Our composite or aluminium fencing is designed to stand the test of time and comes with a 20-warranty for your peace of mind so your family can enjoy your outdoor space for years to come. Shop Charles and Ivy now to create a secure family space this summer.
Host the Ultimate Garden Gathering This Summer
Long, light evenings and warmer weekends mean one thing: it’s time to bring your garden to life and host the ultimate gathering. Whether it’s a relaxed barbecue with friends, a sunset dinner party, or a spontaneous family get-together, your outdoor space deserves to shine and we are here to help you set the scene. From statement planters to stylish decorative screens, here’s everything you need to create a garden that feels as welcoming and elegant as your home. Set the Stage with Stylish Structure Start by creating a layout that feels intentional. Use composite fencing or decorative panels to zone your garden - separating dining, lounging, and planting areas. Not only does this make your space feel more luxurious, it also offers privacy and creates an intimate atmosphere, perfect for entertaining. Dress It Up with Planters Nothing transforms a space like greenery. Our statement planters are perfect for framing your seating area, or adding seasonal colour to your patio. Choose between a variety of styles, colours and sizes - all providing durability with their weatherproof properties. Go for the cottage look and opt for nature inspired designs such as Blossom. Or choose the more contemporary look with grey undertones and modern designs such as Zenith. Create Comfort with Seating and Shade The best garden gatherings are those where guests enjoy the atmosphere. Invest in quality seating, pile on cushions, and don’t forget the shade - whether it’s a parasol, pergola or a vine-covered trellis. Add throws or outdoor blankets for a touch of softness as the sun sets. Complement your soft furnishings with the tones and textures of your fencing and screening for a cohesive, designer look. Light It Right When the sun goes down, the party begins. Add ambiance to your garden with our new outdoor lighting, which are compatible with both walls and our fencing collection. For added atmosphere, why not add some flickering flameless candles to your outdoor table to bring an element of cosiness to the outdoors. The Finishing Touches It’s the little details that elevate your gathering. Add warm blankets as the cold breeze kicks in, or a portable speaker with a mellow playlist, and you’re ready to entertain in style. Got a more spontaneous gathering? A beautiful backdrop of Charles & Ivy fencing or decorative screens means your space always feels occasion-ready - even at a moment’s notice. Ready to Host? With Charles & Ivy’s premium garden features, hosting the ultimate outdoor gathering is effortless. Whether you’re planning an al fresco brunch or twilight cocktails, create a garden that reflects your style and sets the tone for unforgettable moments. Upgrade your garden with Charles and Ivy and shop the collection now.
Why a Composite Slat Wall is the Ultimate Outdoor Upgrade
Are you looking to instantly refresh your garden with something stylish, durable and low maintenance? Our composite slat wall panels are the perfect solution! They offer a sleek, modern look whilst delivering long-lasting durability in your outdoor space. Read on to discover how you can utilise Charles and Ivy composite slat wall panels in your garden this season. Why Choose Charles & Ivy Composite Slat Wall Panels? Our composite slat wall panels are crafted from a blend of recycled timber and plastics, offering the natural look and texture of wood with enhanced durability. Made from premium, fully waterproof composite, our slat walls bring a modern touch to any space and can be easily cut to size for a perfect fit. Fit horizontally or vertically to create the clean, modern line your space is missing. Perfect for both contemporary and classic gardens, they are easy to install which makes them ideal for both DIYers and garden designers. Easy To Install, Built to Last Charles and Ivy composite slats are designed with simplicity and ease of installation in mind. Our slats are designed to slot together easily, with clear installation guides to help you transform your space in just a few simple steps. Simply install using strong, weatherproof adhesive or screws for a secure fixture. Benefits of Using Composite Slats Outdoors Our composite slats are long-lasting and weatherproof. Unlike timber, our premium composite is resistant to rot, warping or and won’t require staining over time. They’re also UV-Resistant and weatherproof to ensure durability through rain and shine. With their sleek and stylish appearance, they give your garden a polished and premium finish as well as being low maintenance and versatile in any space within your garden. How To Use A Composite Slat Wall in your Garden Design Styling your composite slat wall panels is a great way to personalise your garden and elevate its design. Try hanging planters, trailing greenery, or decorative outdoor lights to bring life and texture to the wall. For a modern look, add metal or ceramic wall art, or incorporate shelves to display small pots and ornaments. The clean lines of the panels provide a perfect backdrop for both minimalist and eclectic styles, allowing you to create a space that reflects your personality. Upgrade your garden space and shop our Composite Slat Wall range today.
How to Create Your Perfect Summer Sanctuary
As the summer season begins, preparing your perfect summer sanctuary is essential. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just getting started, the start of summer is the perfect time to transform your garden for the sunny days ahead. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to upgrade your outdoor space with ease, and advise you on finding the perfect durable and low maintenance options. Accessing your garden space The first step to elevating your outdoor space is crucial! Before purchasing garden products, take time to understand your garden, and look at how you want to utilise the area. Consider factors such as sunlight exposure, soil quality and any existing landscaping features. Following this step will ensure the best layout for your garden, and enable you to identify any areas that need more attention. It will also help you buy the correct sizes, quantities and styles to prevent further unnecessary costs. Planning your layout Once you have assessed the space, it’s time to plan your ideal layout. Think about what you want your sanctuary to achieve. Is it going to be a quiet space for reading? Or a place to welcome nature and greenery? To help visualise the final look and ensure that your final design feels balanced and functional, use painters tape, chalk or stakes to outline where your new products will go. Don’t forget to leave access routes and allow room for your plants to grow and thrive! Prepping The Area Preparation is the key for smooth installation. Start by clearing your garden from weeds, any old fixtures that you plan to replace and scattered pieces of rubbish you wish to remove. Give your patio or decking a hard sweep and even pressure wash if needed for a clean foundation. For uneven ground, consider levelling or adding gravel to create a stable base. This will give a solid foundation for you to install your new products and ensure a seamless installation and finish. Choosing the correct products for your garden space Every garden is unique, and selecting the right products is key to creating a space that feels both beautiful and functional. At Charles and Ivy, we have something for everyone, and our products are designed to suit a variety of garden styles and sizes, from compact patios to spacious landscapes. Suitable for spaces of all sizes, our Decorative Screens can zone off areas or provide stylish backdrops, while our Planter collection adds instant structure and colour to patios or pathways. They’re ideal if you’re working with a more compact space, as they add detail without overwhelming the area. If you’re working with a larger landscape, our Decorative Screen fencing could also help create outdoor 'rooms' or enhance privacy. Our Fencing is also a great sustainable option to transform larger spaces, and can be installed with wildlife in mind with dedicated hedgehog holes, allowing animals to roam freely. Installing with ease Now the fun begins! Charles and Ivy products are designed with easy installation in mind, so many projects can be completed in just a few steps. Follow the included instructions carefully or watch our online installation guides. Don’t rush the set up - taking your time now means less chance of error! For Decorative Screens and Fencing, ensure that posts are secured upright and are evenly spaced. When placing Planters, group in odd numbers and mix heights for a designed look. Once everything is in place, step back and enjoy, your garden sanctuary is now summer-ready! Shop now for the ultimate summer garden upgrade.
Growing Greener with Charles & Ivy
At Charles & Ivy, we believe style and sustainability can grow side by side. As we design and deliver elegant decorative screens, planters, fencing and more; we’re constantly finding new ways to reduce our environmental impact. Here are four key ways we’re striving to make our brand more environmentally conscious. Wildlife Consideration Hedgehog Highway One issue that many species face is limited access to natural habitats. Our fencing can be installed with wildlife in mind, including dedicated hedgehog holes to help these endangered creatures roam freely between gardens. Small gestures like these can make a big difference in supporting local biodiversity. As well as providing passageways for wildlife, purchasing our composite fences can do wonders for the environment. You don’t need to paint, stain, or varnish composite wood, all of which leak damaging chemicals into the ground, thus causing harm to animals’ habitats. We’re determined to carry on taking wildlife into consideration by creating wild-life friendly garden solutions, join us in supporting the habitat of our little friends. Sustainable Delivery Practices With our own fleet of delivery vans, we can carefully plan routes to reduce fuel use. We aim to optimise route planning, ensuring we can plan delivery routes efficiently, reducing miles driven and fuel used. This results in fewer emissions and less congestion. Our packaging is purposefully chosen to minimise waste and environmental impact. Our in-house delivery allows better control over how products are packed and our packaging is recyclable, minimal, reusable and transported efficiently. Every step of the journey - from our warehouse to your garden - is designed with the planet in mind. At Charles and Ivy we don’t just aim to deliver products, but sustainability too. Recycled Materials Our composite screening and decorative panels are made using recycled plastics and sustainably sourced wood fibres. We aim to repurpose waste materials, giving them a second life in a durable product. The result? Beautiful, durable materials that help prevent plastic waste from ending up in landfills or oceans. The longevity means our products don’t need to be replaced often, reducing consumption and waste over time. Bespoke made to measure to reduce waste Mass production often means excess. That’s why Charles & Ivy products are made to measure whenever possible - so you get exactly what you need and nothing more. We offer bespoke sizing across all products encouraging mindful production. Custom sizing reduces offcuts and landfill waste, while ensuring a perfect fit for your space. Smart design, less waste, and a cleaner conscience. Built to last and environmentally considerate, our products' longevity minimises the need for replacements, reducing waste. Caring for the environment is rooted in everything we do. From creating safe spaces for wildlife to reducing emissions with smarter delivery, we’re committed to making greener choices that grow with your garden. Shop Charles and Ivy now for more sustainable home living options.
Give Your Home the RHS Chelsea Flower Show Look with Charles & Ivy
The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is the pinnacle of garden design - a showcase of creativity, planting mastery, and stylish outdoor living. At Charles & Ivy, we believe that kind of beauty and function shouldn’t just be for show gardens. With the right products and a little inspiration, you can bring that same refined look into your own home and garden. 1. Create Structure with Statement Planters One of the standout features of Chelsea gardens is their clear structure and balance. Planters aren't just practical, they're a key part of the exterior design. Use tall, decorative planters from Charles & Ivy to define areas, frame doorways, or add height variation to borders. Choose from a variety of planters in stylish finishes that complement both modern and classic homes. Filled with seasonal favourites or lush evergreens, they bring instant elegance and a curated feel. 2. Blend Privacy with Greenery Using Modular Screens At Chelsea Flower Show privacy isn’t created with blank walls, it’s done with thoughtful screening and clever planting. Our decorative screened fencing offers a modern solution that combines function with design. Whether you're zoning off a seating area or shielding a space from view, our screens give you that clean, garden-designer aesthetic. Add climbing plants or position behind potted greenery to soften and naturalise the look. 3. Go Vertical: Add Height and Interest with Decorative Panels A signature of Chelsea gardens is their use of vertical space — not just for function, but for beauty. Charles & Ivy decorative panels make it easy to train climbers like clematis or jasmine, while also giving your outdoor space a sense of elevation and style. Installed against walls or fencing, they invite nature to grow upwards and give a layered, immersive effect that feels lush and luxurious. 4. Keep It Cohesive with Coordinated Finishes Chelsea gardens are never cluttered as they're unified by consistent materials and colour palettes. Charles & Ivy products are designed with coordination in mind, so your screens, planters, and trellis panels work together seamlessly. Our sleek designs carry through our fencing, planter and screen collections ensuring consistency throughout your home. Choose contemporary greys that let the planting shine while giving your garden that professional, pulled-together look. Ready to bring the show home? Explore the full Charles & Ivy range and discover how small changes can make a big impact with a garden that looks show-ready all year round.
Springify Your Garden With Charles and Ivy
Lighter nights have arrived, creating the perfect opportunity to breathe new life into your garden. Find your top garden tips below to upgrade your home this spring and make the most out of your outdoor space. Add fresh plants and flowers to your space Uplift your garden this spring by adding pops of colour with seasonal flowers and bulbs, and help create the perfect sanctuary to bring nature into your outdoor space. As well as adding more life to your garden, plants are said to have multiple health benefits, such as bettering your mood and releasing stress. With endless opportunities to enhance your garden, adding plants will ensure relaxation and create the perfect escape. For a blend of nature and decoration, add our planters to your space. With a range of different styles and colours to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your aesthetic. Accessorise your garden The days are getting warmer, and lighter nights are starting to appear. Accessorising your garden brings charm and personality to your space to really make it your own. Upgrade your outdoor space by adding accessories such as decorative screens, bird feeders and hammocks to elevate your garden's aesthetic, and create a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere for you and your guests. Maximise Sunlight Maximising sunlight in your garden is essential for creating a vibrant, thriving outdoor space this spring. The longer, sunnier days of spring provide the perfect opportunity to rearrange your garden layout and ensure that your plants get the right amount of sunlight. Start by assessing how much sunlight each area of your garden receives throughout the day, noting spots that get full sun, partial sun, and shade. For plants that require full sunlight, position them in areas where they will receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight, acting as a fuel for your plants' growth. Moving your planters around has never been easier with our wheel-based planters to move plants into sunlight throughout the day. Create an outdoor oasis Creating an outdoor oasis starts with thoughtful planning and a focus on relaxation. Begin by choosing a designated space in your garden that offers tranquility, whether it’s a quiet corner, a shaded area under a tree, or a sunny spot by a flower bed. Add comfortable seating like lounge chairs or a garden bench where you can unwind, read, or simply enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. The goal is to create a space that encourages calmness and invites you to spend more time outdoors. Include an outdoor dining space Spring is the perfect time to enjoy more time outdoors with family and friends! Welcome guests with an outdoor dining area, adding seating and garden decor for the perfect al fresco dining location. Create a sleek outdoor kitchen or barbeque area with our Composite Slats, creating texture and adding finer detail to your outdoor space. Plus, accessorising your dining space gives you the freedom to show off your unique style while making your garden feel like a true extension of your home. Start your spring renovations now and browse our collections online, or in a showroom near you, to see how Charles & Ivy can transform your space.
How to find the right Driveway Gate for your home
When enhancing the curb appeal and security of your home, selecting the right driveway gate is a crucial step. With so many styles to choose from, how do you find the right design and finish for you? Take a look at our recommendations to help choose the right driveway gate for your home. Composite vs Aluminium Gates Composite gates are becoming increasingly popular due to their strength and longevity, offering the aesthetic appeal of wood without the need for regular painting, staining or treating. Aluminium gates are lightweight and corrosion-resistant; offering a modern and sleek design option. Both materials provide excellent security and can be customised to suit different styles. Whether you prefer the classic look of wood or the contemporary appeal of metal, they’re both a versatile solution that fit a range of preferences and needs. Choosing the Right Style for Your Home When selecting a composite or aluminium driveway gate, the style is key to ensuring it complements the aesthetic of your home. For a more traditional look, composite gates with wood-like finishes can provide the warmth and character of wood without the upkeep. Aluminium gates, with their clean lines and varied finishes, work well for modern or minimalist homes as they offer a sophisticated and stylish appearance. Consider the Size and Layout of Your Driveway The size of your driveway and the layout of your property are essential considerations when choosing a driveway gate. Double gates are often necessary for driveways, and make it easier to drive your vehicle on and off the driveway. It's important to measure the width of your driveway to ensure that the gate you choose will fit properly, as well as considering the space needed for the gates to open. Charles and Ivy offer a range of sizes to accommodate different driveway dimensions and are all made to order, ensuring that your gate fits seamlessly into your home’s exterior. Security and Functionality One of the primary reasons for installing a driveway gate is to enhance the security of your property. Both composite and aluminium gates offer excellent security features, with durable and strong materials to provide a solid barrier against intruders and protect your home and garden. For added security, automated gates can be controlled remotely, allowing you to open and close your gate with ease without ever having to leave your vehicle. Charles and Ivy also offers advanced security features such as Digital Smart Handles, making your gate a high-tech and secure solution for your home. Maintenance and Durability One of the major advantages of choosing composite and aluminium gates is their low-maintenance. Unlike traditional wooden gates that require regular staining or painting, composite gates only need an occasional wash with soapy water to keep them looking fresh. Similarly, aluminium gates are resistant to rust, corrosion and fading. They are built to withstand the elements, ensuring that your investment will last for years without requiring much upkeep. Plus, all Charles & Ivy gates come with a 20-year warranty guaranteeing long-lasting durability and performance, so you won’t have to worry about regularly replacing gates. Installation and Customisation When selecting a composite or aluminium gate for your driveway, it's important to consider the installation process and any customisation options. Customisation is also a key benefit when choosing a gate from Charles and Ivy. You can personalise the design with different finishes, colours, and decorative elements to perfectly match your home’s aesthetic. Whether you’re looking for a traditional look with added decorative panels or a more modern and minimalist design, there’s something to suit every garden. Plus, options for inserted letter boxes, above or below ground automated features and bespoke measurements are also available so you can find the exact specification to suit your needs. Get Inspired Looking for inspiration before upgrading your home? Check out the inspiration page and our Instagram. Visit one of our showrooms or browse online to view our collection and find your perfect driveway gate. Our friendly team are on hand 7 days a week to help with product enquiries and quotations.
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