q       After heaping loads of attention (and hopefully loads of compost as well) on front and back gardens, many gardeners leave side gardens sadly neglected.  Sometimes they are narrow or shady (or both) but rather than seeing this as a problem, one should welcome the challenge and chance to do something a little different, perhaps, than in front or back. 

      A side garden can be an opportunity to create an intimate courtyard, with a gate and seat.  A whimsical path can be laid, mirroring materials from the house, but adding a bit of flair that one might shy away from in more visible locations.  If there is no gate or wall, remember to use elements from both front and back to connect the two, so that the side garden becomes a transition from one to another - offering tempting suggestions of what is to come.

      Above all - do not neglect the sides!  Give them ample care and attention, even if this is where you store the wheelbarrow or other "unsightly" necessities.  Be creative in your camouflage and allow your house to be surrounded by garden, rather than simply book ended!