When is National Gardening Week?

National gardening week is the perfect reminder to slow down, step outside and enjoy the little things growing all around you. Happening from 28 April to 5 May, it’s the UK’s way of celebrating the joy of gardening and how good it makes us feel. With this year’s theme focusing on wellbeing through greenery.

It’s a brilliant chance to appreciate how good it feels to plant something, nurture it and watch it thrive. And for anyone who likes a single-day celebration, National Gardening day falls on 1st May and is a great place to start.

You can take part by visiting open gardens, getting involved in local events or just planting a few new flowers in your space. Even a small windowsill planter can bring a bit of joy. There’s no right or wrong way to celebrate.

Keen to see what it’s all about? We’ve got plenty of ideas waiting for you below.

1. Plant something new

Adding a new plant is one of the simplest ways to update a garden without spending much. During National Gardening Week, many garden centres and online retailers offer discounts on seasonal plants, making it a great time to buy.

Vertical planting is ideal for small spaces. Use hanging baskets, tiered planters or recycled pallets to introduce new greenery without taking up floor space. Climbers like clematis or nasturtiums work well and can quickly cover plain walls or fences.

For low-maintenance options, look for hardy plants suited to the unpredictable climate. Lavender, sedum and hardy geraniums grow well with minimal attention and bring reliable colour. Choosing plants based on your garden’s light and soil conditions prevents waste and disappointment.

Trying one new plant each season helps build variety without feeling overwhelming. This approach keeps your garden evolving, supports pollinators and gives you the chance to experiment while sticking to a tight budget.

2. Start a kitchen herb garden

A kitchen herb garden is one of the most cost-effective ways to get more from a small outdoor space. Herbs like mint, rosemary, thyme and parsley are easy to grow, even in small containers, and can save you money week after week at the supermarket.

You don’t need a large garden or fancy setup. A sunny windowsill, balcony ledge or compact outdoor shelf is enough to get started. Repurposed items like old teapots, tins or mugs make quirky, affordable pots and keep costs down.

Growing your own herbs cuts down on waste. Supermarket herb packs often wilt after one use, while garden-grown herbs keep producing when trimmed regularly. This makes your meals fresher and your food shop lighter.

Choose herbs suited to the British climate. Hardy types like chives, sage and oregano can handle cooler temperatures, making them ideal for year-round use. During National Gardening Week, look out for starter herb kits or seed packs on offer, perfect for beginners.

To keep your herb garden thriving, water consistently and position it where it gets at least six hours of sunlight a day. Rotate pots now and then to encourage even growth, and snip little and often to prevent plants from going woody.

3. Host a garden party

Hosting a garden party doesn’t have to be expensive or overcomplicated. With a few simple additions like fairy lights, reused jars as lanterns, or bunting made from old fabric, any outdoor space can feel warm and welcoming.

Food and drink can stay simple but still feel thoughtful. Homemade snacks, fresh herbs from your kitchen garden, and a jug of fruit-infused water or punch create a relaxed vibe. Sharing boards or large trays help cut down on the need for separate dishes and make serving easier.

Planning your garden party during National Gardening Week is a great way to celebrate your space and show off the improvements you’ve made. You could even offer them cuttings or herbs to take home as a practical party favours.

Layout makes a big difference, especially in smaller spaces. Use light furniture that’s easy to move around and add picnic blankets or outdoor cushions to create casual seating zones. In larger gardens, you have room to set up themed areas, like a drinks corner, games zone, or a relaxed seating spot under a tree.

4. Organise a plant or seed swap

A plant or seed swap is a brilliant way to refresh your garden. You can exchange surplus seeds, cuttings, or seedlings with neighbours, friends, or local gardening groups. It helps reduce waste, especially if you’ve ended up with too many of one variety.

Setting one up doesn’t need much planning. You can keep it simple by hosting it in your garden, a nearby allotment, or even a community hall. Label what you’re offering clearly so people know what they’re getting, and include growing tips if you can. It adds value to the swap and builds gardening confidence for beginners.

Seed swaps are especially useful in early spring when gardeners start sowing. During National Gardening Week, many communities run events where people bring excess seeds to share. It’s a good time to connect with others, pick up varieties you wouldn’t usually try, and build a more diverse, resilient garden on a tight budget.

5. Set up a compost bin

A compost bin is one of the most cost-effective ways to cut down on garden waste while improving your soil. Instead of sending kitchen scraps and garden clippings to landfill, you can turn them into nutrient-rich compost at home.

A simple compost bin can be made from old pallets, plastic storage boxes, or even a lidded bin with a few holes drilled in for airflow. For smaller spaces, a compact kitchen caddy or wormery works well and fits neatly into a balcony or courtyard.

Getting the balance right between greens and browns is key. Things like vegetable peelings, coffee grounds, and grass cuttings count as greens, while shredded cardboard, paper, and dried leaves make up your browns. A healthy mix keeps the compost from turning slimy or smelly, making it suitable for small, shared, or urban gardens.

National Gardening Week is a great time to start composting, especially as more councils and communities promote eco-friendly gardening habits. Many offer discounted compost bins or local workshops to help beginners learn the basics. Starting during spring means you’ll have your first batch ready just in time for summer planting.

6. Visit a garden centre

A visit to a garden centre is more than just a shopping trip. It’s a chance to find budget-friendly plants, tools, and garden essentials. Many garden centres offer a variety of plants at different price points, so you can find affordable options that suit your budget. From perennials to seasonal plants, you can gradually build your garden without spending too much.

During National Gardening Week, many garden centres offer discounts, special events, and promotions. Look for vertical plants, small shrubs, or herbs that work well in pots or hanging baskets. If you’re unsure where to start, most garden centres have staff who can offer expert advice on the best plants for your space.

If you’re looking to make your garden more eco-friendly, garden centres often stock organic or wildlife-friendly options. From peat-free compost to plants that support pollinators, you can make choices that benefit both your garden and the environment.

7. Volunteer at a local community garden

Many community gardens welcome volunteers to help with planting, weeding, and maintaining shared spaces. In return, you gain hands-on experience and often get to take home plants, herbs, or vegetables, which can help fill your garden on a budget.

Community gardens can also provide access to tools and equipment you might not have at home. It’s a great way to save money while getting the equipment you need to carry out more advanced gardening tasks. Volunteering gives you the chance to try out new gardening techniques and share knowledge with others, which can be invaluable when you’re starting out.

During National Gardening Week, local gardens may host events or offer additional opportunities to get involved. It’s a perfect time to join a project and contribute to growing something worthwhile in your local area. Whether you’re looking to meet fellow gardening enthusiasts or just want to help out, community gardens often offer a sense of connection to both nature and your neighbourhood.

Aside from the gardening skills you’ll pick up, volunteering at a community garden is also a fantastic way to give back. Many community gardens focus on sustainability, food security, and helping those in need. By volunteering, you’re contributing to your local environment while supporting initiatives that can have a real, positive impact on the community.

Volunteering is a win-win: you get to enjoy the benefits of shared expertise, gain access to fresh produce, and improve your gardening skills. It’s also a low-cost way to expand your gardening network and maybe even acquire plants or produce for your own garden.

8. Create a wildlife-friendly space

Creating a wildlife-friendly garden is a rewarding way to boost biodiversity and provide a sanctuary for local creatures. By incorporating elements like native plants, water features, and shelter, you can attract a variety of birds, insects, and small mammals.

Start by choosing plants that are native to the area, as these provide the right food and habitat for local wildlife. Plants like lavender, primroses, and honeysuckle are particularly beneficial for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

A simple way to enhance your wildlife-friendly space is by adding a water feature. This could be as easy as a small birdbath or a pond. Water sources are essential for birds and insects, especially during the warmer months. Even a shallow tray of water can make a big difference, offering a place for wildlife to drink and bathe.

Shelter is another key element. Consider adding a small hedge, a pile of logs, or even a DIY bug hotel. These spaces provide safe havens for creatures to hide from predators or bad weather.

National Gardening Week presents a fantastic opportunity to enhance your garden’s wildlife-friendly features while making the most of seasonal discounts. Many garden centres, both local and online, run special offers during this week, often focusing on plants that support local wildlife.

9. Make DIY plant markers

Garden organisation doesn’t need to be expensive. For a simple and affordable solution, create your own plant markers. These markers not only help you keep track of your plants, but they also add a personal touch to your garden.

Use materials like popsicle sticks, wooden spoons, or even old cutlery to make sturdy, weather-resistant markers. Paint them in bright colours or label them with a waterproof pen to make them stand out.

10. Paint plant pots

Replacing plant pots often can eat into your garden budget quickly. A more affordable option is to repaint the ones you already own. Outdoor acrylic or masonry paint works well and adds a splash of personality without the need to buy anything new. This is a simple upgrade that brings life back to old, tired containers.

If your garden feels a bit thrown together, painting your pots can help create a more polished look. Stick to a consistent colour palette or mix in a few bold tones for contrast. It is a great way to make a small space feel intentional and pulled together. Getting stuck into a bit of pot painting also makes for a creative and low-cost project during National Gardening Week.

Before you start, give the pots a good clean and lightly sand them if needed. This helps the paint stick better. Finish with a clear sealant to keep the colour looking fresh, even in unpredictable weather. It is a small job that makes a noticeable difference to the overall look of your garden.

11. Complete a gardening course

Lack of know-how holds many people back from making the most of their gardens, especially during National Gardening Week when there’s a real buzz to get started. Without the right guidance, it’s easy to waste money on plants that don’t suit your space or buy tools you don’t actually need.

There are plenty of beginner-friendly courses available online, and many are free or low-cost. You’ll learn practical skills like soil preparation, seasonal planting, composting, and pest control. Some also cover small-space gardening, perfect for those working with balconies, courtyards, or compact plots. It’s a quick win that saves money in the long run.

12. Share gardening tips online

Sharing gardening tips online is a helpful way to support others while learning more yourself. It allows you to connect with people facing similar challenges, especially when working with smaller spaces or tight budgets.

During National Gardening Week, these shared experiences can be incredibly valuable to those who are just getting started or looking for practical, real-world solutions. Simple tips like how to reuse household items for planting, make compost at home, or grow herbs in containers can be very useful to others.

Posting these on local forums, Facebook groups, or Instagram can encourage conversation and inspire more people to join in during National Gardening Week. Real examples from your garden will always resonate more than polished tutorials.

With national gardening week inspiring green-fingered goals across the country, now’s the moment to step back into your own garden. From clearing out beds to planting summer crops, there are plenty of gardening jobs to tackle in April and May

If digging isn’t your thing, switch to no dig gardening and let nature do more of the work. You could also rethink your setup with sustainable garden ideas like planting pollinator-friendly flowers or using rainwater.

Every little change helps your garden and the planet too. Treat this National Gardening week as your gardening reset and see where it takes you!