Creating a fairy garden is a lovely, creative way to spark children’s imaginations and provide them with a whimsical outdoor play area. With the right plants and outdoor ornaments, the options are endless for a fairy garden your kids can spend hours playing in. 

Here’s how to transform a corner of your garden into a magical space that will have your little ones whiling away the hours.

Choose the perfect spot

Start by choosing the ideal location for your children’s fairy garden. 

Find a spot that gets a mix of sunlight and shade. A partly shaded area will help keep your plants healthy and vibrant. Consider placing your fairy garden near a patio or in a corner of the yard where kids can easily access it.

Pick fairy-friendly plants

The key to a successful fairy garden is choosing plants that not only fit the fairy-tale theme, but also thrive in our diverse climate. Plants that stay small and grow slowly are the best. Here are some great plant options :

• Succulents: These hardy plants, such as echeveria or aloe vera, are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy with their unique shapes and low maintenance needs.
• Nemesia: These cheerful, fragrant flowers come in various colours and are ideal for adding pops of brightness.
• Miniature roses: For a touch of classic fairy charm, consider adding dwarf rose varieties that will offer a splash of colour and delicate blooms.

Weave in enchanted ornaments

Bring your fairy garden to life with ornaments and accessories:

• Fairy houses: Miniature fairy houses are a must-have. Look for tiny cottages or mushroom-shaped houses that can be placed among the plants. You can find these in craft stores.
  
• Tiny furniture: Add small furniture pieces like benches, tables and chairs. These will make the garden feel like a cosy space where fairies might gather for tea parties.
  
• Fairy lights: Solar-powered fairy lights or string lights add a magical glow to your fairy garden, especially during the evening hours. The kids will be mesmerised!
  
• Miniature bridges: Create structures that give shape to the fairy garden. For example, use bark or twigs to ‘build a bridge’ across a small stream or puddle of water that could be the ‘fairies’ pond’.
  
• Garden gnomes: These classic decorations can be a fun addition, but be sure to choose ones that match the scale of your fairy garden to maintain the magical feel.

Creating a fairy pathway

To enhance the fantastical element of your garden, form a miniature pathway using small pebbles or gravel. A winding path will add a sense of adventure and exploration. 

You can also line the pathway with miniature lanterns or fairy lights to guide the way.

Add a touch of water

Incorporating a small water feature can add to the magical atmosphere of your fairy garden. 

Consider a tiny birdbath, a mini pond or a small fountain. Not only does water add a serene element to the garden, but it also attracts birds and insects, bringing even more life and magic to the space.

Engage your children

To make the fairy garden a truly interactive experience for your children, involve them in the creation process. 

Let them help with planting, choosing decorations and arranging the ornaments. This hands-on involvement will not only make the garden more meaningful, but also inspire creativity and a love for gardening.

Maintenance and care

A fairy garden needs regular upkeep to keep it looking enchanting. 

Ensure that your plants are well-watered and free from pests. Trim any overgrown foliage and refresh decorations as needed to maintain the garden’s magical charm.

Let their imaginations run wild!

Creating a fairy garden is a wonderful way to blend imagination with nature. 

By choosing the right plants and ornaments, and involving your children in the process, you can build a magical space that will delight and inspire. Find everything from plants and pebbles to gnomes and more at your local Stodels Garden Centre to make a fairy garden both you and your little ones will enjoy for hours.