1. Determine your garden’s purpose: Consider how you will use your garden. Will it be a place to entertain guests, grow vegetables, relax and unwind, or a combination of these? Knowing the purpose of your garden will help guide your design choices.

2. Consider your climate: Choose plants and features that will thrive in your local climate. For example, if you live in a hot and dry climate, you may want to incorporate drought-resistant plants and water-saving features like a rainwater collection system.

3. Create zones: Divide your garden into functional areas, such as a seating area, a play area, and a garden bed. This will help organize your garden and make it more visually appealing.

4. Incorporate a focal point: A focal point, such as a sculpture or water feature, can draw the eye and add interest to your garden.

5. Use vertical space: Don’t forget to use your garden’s vertical space by incorporating features like trellises, hanging baskets, and vertical planters. This can add interest and create more planting space.

6. Add lighting: Outdoor lighting can make your garden more inviting and extend the time you can enjoy it. Consider incorporating path lighting, spotlights, and string lights.

7. Choose materials wisely: Use materials that are durable, low-maintenance, and appropriate for your climate. For example, if you live in an area with harsh winters, choose materials that can withstand freeze-thaw cycles.

8. Plan for maintenance: Consider how much time and effort you are willing to put into maintaining your garden. Choose plants and features that fit your lifestyle and budget.

9. Be patient: A beautiful garden takes time to grow and develop. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make changes as you go along.

 

Now comes an important question that a lot of my clients ask me, what plants can we use in our back gardens? Well, this question has many aspects, including aesthetic, functional and environmental considerations. Dubai has a hot desert climate, with very hot summers and mild winters. When choosing garden plants for Dubai, it is important to select those that are heat and drought tolerant. Also, it is important to look at the size of your back garden and the type of soil there to determine whether it is better to go for in-ground or potted plantation. Here are some suggestions for the best garden plants for Dubai weather:

1. Bougainvillea: This hardy plant is well-suited for Dubai’s climate and thrives in the hot sun. It produces vibrant blooms in shades of pink, purple, and red.

2. Pomegranate: This fruit tree is a great option for a productive garden. It is drought-tolerant and produces tasty fruit in the fall.

3. Date palm: The date palm is an iconic plant in Dubai and is well-suited for the hot desert climate. It produces delicious dates and provides shade in the garden.

4. Desert rose: This stunning plant produces showy blooms in shades of pink and red and is well-suited for Dubai’s hot and dry climate.

5. Aloe Vera: This is a hardy and low-maintenance plant that is well-suited for Dubai’s climate. It is also known for its healing properties.

6. Henna: This plant is well-suited for Dubai’s hot and dry climate and produces fragrant flowers and leaves that are used for natural dye.

7. Bottlebrush: This plant produces unique and colourful blooms that attract birds and bees. It is also drought-tolerant and well-suited for Dubai’s climate.

8. Cactus: Cacti are well-suited for hot and dry climates and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are low-maintenance and add interest to a garden.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and functional back garden that you will enjoy for years to come. When selecting plants for your Dubai garden, be sure to choose those that are well-suited for the climate and require minimal water and maintenance. 

 

For the Back Garden Design tips in Arabic language check my special segment on MBC with Lojain Omran through the following link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3cZYxbStxnc