If you are lucky enough to have your own garden you could be missing out on opportunities to save money.

Searches for ‘garden party ideas’ increased by 111% between February and March 2021, with even the likes of ‘outdoor seating’ spiking by 141% in the same time period.

This suggests that gardens are becoming the top priorities for Scots and while most people know that double glazing can save you money on heating bills but you can make further savings by planting a tree or a well-positioned fence.

BoilerPlan UK has put together a list of six ways you can make your garden work for you with some tips promising to knock up to 25% off your energy bills throughout the year and could increase your home’s value by 20%.

Six ways to save money using your garden

Ian Henderson, Managing Director of Boiler Plan : “These gardening tips are a small way we can help cut down our energy bills throughout the year, while enjoying and adding value to our outdoor space.

From LED bulbs, to making sure our outdoor fridges stay cool in the heat, these all can help towards keeping our bills down.”

1. Well positioned trees can save 25%

A large tree in your garden could be acting as a natural windbreaker and saving you up to 25% on energy bills, meaning you are less likely to feel drafts and put the heating on.

Those same trees provide that much-needed shade during the summer months – it’s around 3-6 degrees cooler in tree-shaded areas – leaving you less likely to turn on fans or air conditioning and save on your energy bills.

The sooner you get these planted the better but if it’s a quick alternative you’re after or you’re worried about which type of tree to plant, head to the next tip.

2. A tall fence can save money and add 20% value

Similar to how trees work, a large fence can act as a windbreaker around your property meaning you’re less likely to feel the draft and reach for the thermostat.

Although on average a fence can be around £1,000 to build, depending on your garden size, it can add up to 20% to the value of your home.

If you are sticking to a budget keep an eye on sales, online market places and discount stores for cheaper material choices.

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3. Keep your garden fridge out of direct sunlight

Between February 2021 and March 2021 searches for “Garden Bar” increased by 80% as more of us invest in our outdoor spaces and opt for a fridge rather than a cool box.

Your indoor fridges and freezers should be kept away from sunlight and the same applies to those outdoor fridges you have.

The heat causes the fridge to work harder and therefore costs more money to run.

4. Opt for an electric outdoor heater over gas

“Garden heater” searches have increased by 192% between February 2021 and March 2021 which isn’t surprising with typical Scotland weather.

An electric heater costs around 15% of what it would cost to run a gas heater so it’s worth bearing in mind if you are in the market for warm evenings.

Of course, if you would like to go green, the most environmentally friendly way you can heat up outside is to bring plenty of rugs and blankets outdoors.

5. Use LED garden lights

LED lights are estimated to use 80% less energy and yet still provide a stylish garden backdrop.

LED bulbs appear to be very expensive when you see them on the shelf, but they are more cost-effective when compared to cheaper halogen bulbs over time

6. Consider a porch – this can add insulation to your home as well as add value

If you are already thinking of doing some structural home renovations then this is a good option.

A porch can act as insulation around your home, stopping the heat from escaping and keeping your property warmer.

Porches can also add value to your home if you’re looking to sell.

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