Water makes a charming feature in almost any garden. But a fine setting will bring even greater beauty. If a well-planted bog comes up to the pond edge and reflects on the surface, that scene is perfected. Wetland plants have particular beauty. Visit Beth Chatto's gorgeous Water Garden in Essex, or the drifts of Asiatic primulas at RHS Garden Harlow Carr in North Yorkshire, and you'll see what I mean.
Gardening big picture gallery
A waft of border phlox and suddenly I'm 12 years old again, looking for a tennis ball among waisthigh perennials, writes Nigel Colborn.
WINDOW SHOPPING...TOP GARDEN POTS
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Create a rustic feel in your garden with this short distressed pot. Brimming with character, pop an eye catching plant in or leave it to stand alone. £25, French Connection
Give your garden a regal touch with these Kew Gardens pots. £34-£45 Not on the High Street
These charming little rustic pots are perfect for growing herbs. £6-£12 Anthropologie
This large oil jar will make a great stand-out piece in any garden. £695, Pots and Pithoi
This turquoise pot adds a lovely pop of colour to a summer garden. Was £8 now £5.60, Habitat
With a fabulous, decorative pattern adorned across the front of this planter. It's perfect for adding a luxurious feel to your interior. Place your favourite shrub or plant inside to create a natural finish. £15, John Lewis
OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING
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Get your garden celebration ready with this outdoor bunting from Oily Rag. £35, Oily Rag at John Lewis
Keep warm after dark with Ikea's Broko fire basket. £25, Ikea
You can't go wrong with an oil cloth table cloth when it comes to dining alfresco and when it comes to oil cloth you can't go wrong with Cath Kidston. £22 per metre, Cath Kidston
This dirt and water repellent bean bag from Fatboy is perfect from garden lounging and a spot of sun bathing. £219, Fatboy
The ancient art of the kilim rug inspired the design of the Non-Flying Carpet, however this rug from Fatboy is far from traditional. With its wipe clean surface it makes a great outdoor mat for kids to sit to avoid dirty bums. £149, Fatboy
We know the sun has started to make an appearance however British weather isn't always the most reliable. We suggest a canopy and this one from Wickes is both stylish and will keep you dry. £449, Wickes
Fatboy has created a cute, huge contemporary lamp for indoor and outdoor use perfect for after dark soirees. £399, Fatboy
Avoid any breakages with these jolly plastic wine tumblers. £3.99, Mollie and Fred
You're home will be the social hub for the summer with this hot tub from Euphoria Lifestyle. Hot tub, a group of friends and wine makes for the perfect spring/summer evening. Euphoria Lifestyle
Enjoy dining alfresco without worrying about spoiling your finest china with these fish print plates from Matalan. £2 each, Matalan
Enjoy a brighter start to your mornings by sitting at a coffee table enjoying a brew in the great outdoors, with this garden coffee table. £390, Oak & Iron Furniture at Not on the High Street
We know the deal, dine outside and risk losing half the cutlery draw. Don't run the risk and opt for a set of plastic cutlery. £4, Littlewoods
We love these silver moon garden lanterns from London Garden Trading. They are perfect for creating ambient lighting for after dark parties. £49.95, London Garden Trading at Not on the High Street
Light up a dark garden path with these garden torches. £13.04, Amazon
Putting on a show: Roll up! There's a top floral event waiting for you on your doorstep
Chelsea Flower Show is next week. Tickets are almost sold out, but you can enjoy the show in comfort at home. You might even see more on television than when buffeted by the crowds. Chelsea is by far the world's most famous flower show. But other events over the coming months have qualities that the great London show lacks. The setting for Chelsea is superb, but some alternative venues are even prettier.
GET THE LOOK... Bring the outdoors in
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