Zoe Kilbride Garden Design

23/07/2026

Four months ago, this border was just getting started. Now it’s gone nuts!

One of the stars of the show is Verbena bonariensis. Its tall, airy stems seem to float above the rest of the planting, adding height without blocking the view. It threads its way through the border, creating that relaxed, natural look while giving butterflies and bees somewhere to feed all summer long.

Gardens that look a little wild hold a secret - they’re carefully designed. Repeating plants, thoughtful spacing and a strong structure underneath create a border that feels loose and natural rather than messy.

It’s always so rewarding to come back and see a garden doing exactly what it was designed to do.

A huge thank you to my client for sending these photos and for looking after the plants so well. Watching a garden mature is one of the best parts of my job. 💚

21/07/2026

Getting my plant fix in 🌱

17/07/2026

This garden is looking particularly lovely at the moment, so I thought I'd share a few words the client sent me after the project was completed. 💚

One of the aims was to create a natural, low-maintenance garden with a countryside feel. Seeing it fill out over the seasons has been such a pleasure.

"The balance she achieved between the flowers and grasses created a harmonious and natural environment, instantly transporting us to a tranquil countryside setting."

Thank you for your kind words and for allowing me to share your beautiful garden.

If you're planning changes to your garden, I'd love to help create a space that works beautifully for you too. 🌿

17/07/2026

Same garden. Just two months later… 🌿

One of the things I love most about planting design is that it doesn’t stop when I leave.

When a garden is first planted, it can feel a little sparse. That’s completely normal. Every tree, shrub and perennial has been carefully chosen and positioned with the future in mind.

Fast forward just eight weeks and everything is starting to settle in. The borders are filling out, the textures are softening, the colours are coming together and the garden is beginning to feel established.

A big thank you to my client for sending this photo over, and for looking after the garden so beautifully. It’s wonderful to see the plants thriving.

And this is only the beginning.

Gardens aren’t created in a day. They grow, evolve and become more beautiful with every season.

If you’re thinking about transforming your own garden, I’d love to help.

Zoe 🌿

16/07/2026

Thinking about working with a garden designer? Here’s a little look at what actually happens from the first chat through to the finished design 🌿

Learn how the garden design process works, from your first consultation through to planting design, plant supply and your finished garden.

06/07/2026

I thought I'd share a little insight into what it's like to work with me.

One of the questions I'm often asked is, "What happens after I get in touch?"

Every garden is different, but the journey usually follows the same steps, from our first conversation through to seeing your finished garden come to life.

I've put together this little carousel to show you what to expect and give you a glimpse behind the scenes of the design process.

If you've been thinking about making some changes to your garden, I'd love to hear from you. 🌿

29/06/2026

🌿 Thinking about transforming your outdoor space?

A garden design consultation is the perfect first step. We’ll chat about what you’re dreaming of and I’ll help you see what’s possible. No pressure, no jargon. Just your garden and some friendly expert eyes 💚

Find out more on my website or send me a message!

Zoe 🌸

https://www.zoekilbride.com/garden-design-consultation

26/06/2026

Garden designer or landscaper?

A bit like asking whether you need an architect or a builder... both are brilliant, they just do different jobs.

If you've ever wondered who does what, I've written a quick blog about it. 👇

Some projects benefit from both. Others only need one. The key is understanding what each brings to the process.

24/06/2026

Looking a bit droopy? ☀️🌿

You might be feeling it in this heat, but chances are your plants are too.

With temperatures soaring and heat alerts in place, now is the time to focus on keeping plants hydrated.

A good, deep soak is far more beneficial than a quick splash, especially for newly planted trees, shrubs and perennials.

Even trees planted last year may need watering during periods of extreme heat like this, particularly if they haven’t fully established.

Where possible, water early in the morning or later in the evening, and keep a close eye on pots and containers, which can dry out surprisingly quickly.

If a few plants are looking a little droopy in the afternoon sun, don’t be too quick to give up on them. Many will recover perfectly well once temperatures begin to ease.

Hopefully some rain isn’t too far away. 🌞💧

17/06/2026

Receiving feedback like this always means a lot. 🌿

This project started as a typical new-build garden and evolved into a space designed for relaxing, entertaining and everyday family life.

One of the things I enjoy most about garden design is helping clients see the potential in a space and creating a garden that feels like a natural extension of their home.

Thank you for such a lovely review. It was a real pleasure working with you both. Clients like you make what I do so rewarding. Enjoy your pocket of paradise! ☺️🌱

A huge thank you also to HardCraft Landscaping for bringing the design to life.