0:00:02 > 0:00:04Beautiful gardens are one of Britain's most glorious sights,
0:00:04 > 0:00:06but if your green space is more mess than majestic,
0:00:06 > 0:00:09making it over can be a daunting prospect,
0:00:09 > 0:00:13especially if you're short on time and money.
0:00:13 > 0:00:16Well, the instant gardener is here.
0:00:16 > 0:00:17Ta-da!
0:00:17 > 0:00:21Danny Clarke is an expert at transforming gardens.
0:00:21 > 0:00:24These are really bringing a smile to my face.
0:00:24 > 0:00:26Each time, our gardening guru
0:00:26 > 0:00:30will be showing you how to create gorgeous garden makeovers.
0:00:30 > 0:00:32Doesn't that look great?
0:00:32 > 0:00:35Each transformation will be packed with brilliant ideas
0:00:35 > 0:00:38to help you get to grips with your own outdoor space.
0:00:39 > 0:00:41Just continually deadhead
0:00:41 > 0:00:44and you'll keep getting that plant to flower.
0:00:44 > 0:00:46He'll be turning garden junk...
0:00:46 > 0:00:48Oh, look at that!
0:00:48 > 0:00:49..into garden jewels.
0:00:49 > 0:00:51It's going to be used as a planter
0:00:51 > 0:00:55and I think it's going to look absolutely terrific.
0:00:55 > 0:00:59And showing you how to spend a small budget wisely...
0:00:59 > 0:01:02- That's why Danny makes me bring a list!- OK.
0:01:02 > 0:01:04..be it on shrubs
0:01:04 > 0:01:05or salvage.
0:01:05 > 0:01:07Would you like that in your garden?
0:01:07 > 0:01:10And because Danny is the INSTANT gardener,
0:01:10 > 0:01:13everything you see will happen in a single day.
0:01:14 > 0:01:16Oh, my...
0:01:16 > 0:01:17Oh, wow!
0:01:17 > 0:01:19That's unbelievable!
0:01:25 > 0:01:27Today, we're in the leafy suburbs of Solihull,
0:01:27 > 0:01:30only eight miles from Birmingham, but light years away
0:01:30 > 0:01:33from the hustle and bustle of inner-city living.
0:01:33 > 0:01:35Its spacious streets and green gardens
0:01:35 > 0:01:39are an enticing prospect for young families.
0:01:39 > 0:01:42Having an outside space is a priority for most parents,
0:01:42 > 0:01:45and when it comes to size, you tend to think the bigger the better,
0:01:45 > 0:01:48but I'm here to meet a family whose dreams of a big garden
0:01:48 > 0:01:51have meant they've bitten off more than they can chew.
0:01:55 > 0:01:57DOORBELL RINGS
0:01:57 > 0:01:59- Hello!- Hello there. - You must be Hayley.
0:01:59 > 0:02:02- Yes, I am. Nice to meet you.- Kevin? - Nice to meet you, hello.
0:02:02 > 0:02:05- Nice to meet you. Let's have a look at this garden.- OK, come on in.
0:02:05 > 0:02:06Thank you.
0:02:06 > 0:02:08Hayley, Kevin and their son Aaron
0:02:08 > 0:02:11moved back to the West Midlands three years ago
0:02:11 > 0:02:13after having lived in the southeast.
0:02:13 > 0:02:16Aaron is nearly five and has Down's syndrome.
0:02:16 > 0:02:18He was born with a serious heart condition
0:02:18 > 0:02:23that resulted in five operations by the time he was 18 months old.
0:02:23 > 0:02:26He also has a hypermobility condition
0:02:26 > 0:02:29which means that his joints rotate 40% more than they should,
0:02:29 > 0:02:32so he's still a little wobbly on his feet.
0:02:32 > 0:02:35All in all, Aaron needs plenty of exercise and stimulation
0:02:35 > 0:02:38to help him with his development.
0:02:38 > 0:02:40So, Kevin and Hayley have called on the instant gardener
0:02:40 > 0:02:43to give their garden a step in the right direction.
0:02:45 > 0:02:47And so he could work out how to help,
0:02:47 > 0:02:49Danny went to Solihull a few days ago
0:02:49 > 0:02:51for his first glimpse of the challenge ahead.
0:02:53 > 0:02:55I've come along today to have a sneak preview
0:02:55 > 0:02:59at Hayley and Kevin's garden, just to see what is what.
0:03:04 > 0:03:06This is what I like to see -
0:03:06 > 0:03:08sound boundaries.
0:03:08 > 0:03:11And it's a lovely open space.
0:03:11 > 0:03:14I get the impression the people who own this garden do garden.
0:03:14 > 0:03:18You can see that the soil's been nicely turned over.
0:03:18 > 0:03:21It's kind of not a very nice shape to this lawn.
0:03:21 > 0:03:23I mean, they've given it a go.
0:03:23 > 0:03:27The garden itself is devoid of plants, so it's very, very bland,
0:03:27 > 0:03:30but a big plus, there are a couple of trees over there,
0:03:30 > 0:03:33which means we can give some height to this garden.
0:03:33 > 0:03:36Now, this is a big area, very sort of barren.
0:03:36 > 0:03:40Nothing in it at all apart from a few nodding daffodils
0:03:40 > 0:03:43right against that fence over there.
0:03:43 > 0:03:45This is actually screaming at me
0:03:45 > 0:03:50that it should be converted perhaps into a place where a child can play.
0:03:50 > 0:03:55Colour and texture's very important in a garden - in any garden -
0:03:55 > 0:03:58but especially for this lad, cos there's nothing here.
0:03:58 > 0:04:02All in all, we've got a garden here that's pretty boring,
0:04:02 > 0:04:04pretty barren, but we've got a lot to work with.
0:04:07 > 0:04:09Today, Danny's back with a plan in mind
0:04:09 > 0:04:11and he's ready to get started
0:04:11 > 0:04:13but first, it's time to meet the garden's owners.
0:04:14 > 0:04:16- Danny.- Hello, Helen.
0:04:16 > 0:04:18- How are you?- Good to see you. - Good to see you.
0:04:18 > 0:04:21- This is Hayley and Kevin. - Hello, Hayley.- Lovely to meet you.
0:04:21 > 0:04:23- Hello, Kevin.- Danny. Nice to meet you. How are you?
0:04:23 > 0:04:25As you've seen, this is their football pitch.
0:04:25 > 0:04:27This is huge!
0:04:27 > 0:04:29I know. I think, when we bought the house,
0:04:29 > 0:04:32it was a jungle behind there. You couldn't even see those two trees.
0:04:32 > 0:04:35- So, you've done a lot work on the garden already?- A lot of work.
0:04:35 > 0:04:37We've also had a lot of trees taken out, as well,
0:04:37 > 0:04:41because there was actually very little daylight so, in the summer,
0:04:41 > 0:04:43it was just like it was kind of night-time permanently.
0:04:43 > 0:04:46- How do you feel about the garden now?- Excited, really,
0:04:46 > 0:04:49because it's all about making it into a really nice garden
0:04:49 > 0:04:53that Aaron can enjoy and play with and we can enjoy as a family.
0:04:53 > 0:04:54It's a dream for a lot of parents
0:04:54 > 0:04:57to see their children playing in the garden, but, when it comes to Aaron,
0:04:57 > 0:05:00he's got quite a few challenges that other children don't have.
0:05:00 > 0:05:02What does he need from this garden?
0:05:02 > 0:05:05He was born with Down's syndrome
0:05:05 > 0:05:06and he's had quite a...
0:05:06 > 0:05:09Well, he's had a very difficult start to life.
0:05:09 > 0:05:11He's had five major surgeries,
0:05:11 > 0:05:13countless hospital admissions,
0:05:13 > 0:05:15and for the last year or so,
0:05:15 > 0:05:19his health has really improved massively.
0:05:19 > 0:05:22Anything that we can do which is going to get him moving,
0:05:22 > 0:05:24get him interested in things,
0:05:24 > 0:05:26stimulated - both mentally and physically.
0:05:26 > 0:05:29We want something that's going to be maybe sensory.
0:05:29 > 0:05:32That kind of thing helps with his development.
0:05:32 > 0:05:36He loves playing in playgrounds and parks and that sort of thing,
0:05:36 > 0:05:40but when it comes to out here, there is nothing to entice him out,
0:05:40 > 0:05:44so an area perhaps where that gives him an opportunity
0:05:44 > 0:05:46to maybe climb, move about, be mobile,
0:05:46 > 0:05:48aid his physical development,
0:05:48 > 0:05:51motor skills, that kind of thing would be great.
0:05:51 > 0:05:54- Is there anything he would like in the garden?- He just loves helping.
0:05:54 > 0:05:56Whatever we do, he likes to do.
0:05:56 > 0:05:58If I water the plants,
0:05:58 > 0:06:00he's got his own mini watering can
0:06:00 > 0:06:04- and he will come along and water with me.- What about you two?
0:06:04 > 0:06:07Would you like a space that you can enjoy as a couple and a family?
0:06:07 > 0:06:11Yes, it would be nice to have a nice glass of wine
0:06:11 > 0:06:14sat on a chair somewhere looking at our lovely garden.
0:06:14 > 0:06:16That would be amazing, wouldn't it?
0:06:16 > 0:06:19And you've done most of the hard work, which is great,
0:06:19 > 0:06:21so we've got a blank canvas to work with.
0:06:21 > 0:06:23Well, we're going to get out of your hair.
0:06:23 > 0:06:25Have you got a shopping list for us?
0:06:25 > 0:06:28- I've got a shopping list for you. There you go.- Thanking you.
0:06:28 > 0:06:31- Got the trusted book. - Lavender and sweet peas.- Very nice.
0:06:31 > 0:06:32All the smelly stuff.
0:06:32 > 0:06:34- Lovely.- I love sweet peas.
0:06:34 > 0:06:37- See you later.- All the best, bye.
0:06:37 > 0:06:40While Hayley and I seek out some inspiration,
0:06:40 > 0:06:44Danny only has one day to convert this large but rather dull garden
0:06:44 > 0:06:47into a physical and sensory adventure wonderland.
0:06:47 > 0:06:49No pressure there, then, Danny!
0:06:49 > 0:06:51This garden was once overgrown,
0:06:51 > 0:06:54but Kevin and Hayley have cut it right back.
0:06:54 > 0:06:56There's lots of light in here,
0:06:56 > 0:06:58but we can't do the whole of this garden.
0:06:58 > 0:07:00It's too much for us to do in one day
0:07:00 > 0:07:03and we're just going to concentrate on Aaron.
0:07:03 > 0:07:05We're going to concentrate on his needs
0:07:05 > 0:07:09and we're going to do something for him down here by these trees.
0:07:09 > 0:07:13We're going to have a lovely barked play area for him
0:07:13 > 0:07:15just round here, so we're going to have big sweeping circle
0:07:15 > 0:07:17going round here.
0:07:17 > 0:07:20This barked area is very useful because what we can do,
0:07:20 > 0:07:23we can bring some of Aaron's toys down here
0:07:23 > 0:07:26to give him a reason to visit this place.
0:07:28 > 0:07:30And as well as that, we're going to put a swing...
0:07:30 > 0:07:32We're going to attach it to that branch over there
0:07:32 > 0:07:34so he's got something to swing on,
0:07:34 > 0:07:37because what we want to do is get him moving,
0:07:37 > 0:07:41get him a reason to come down here and enjoy this space.
0:07:41 > 0:07:44By that tree over there, they're going to put a half-circular seat
0:07:44 > 0:07:48that's going to be for Hayley and Kevin.
0:07:48 > 0:07:50We're going to have five circles
0:07:50 > 0:07:53and each circle is going to be stuffed full of plants
0:07:53 > 0:07:57which are going to represent all of Aaron's five senses.
0:07:57 > 0:08:00We're going to have plants all about sound,
0:08:00 > 0:08:03taste, smell, sight and touch.
0:08:03 > 0:08:06I'm a bit worried about the top end of the garden
0:08:06 > 0:08:09because, you know, resources are a bit stretched
0:08:09 > 0:08:11and we are limited for time.
0:08:11 > 0:08:12But having said that,
0:08:12 > 0:08:15I would love to give Kevin and Hayley a start,
0:08:15 > 0:08:18so we are going to see if we can shape this lawn
0:08:18 > 0:08:21and maybe give them something to build on in the future
0:08:21 > 0:08:25so they can add plants to it when they are ready.
0:08:25 > 0:08:27So, Danny's plan is to turn this bare and boring area
0:08:27 > 0:08:32at the bottom of the garden into a sensory adventure playground.
0:08:32 > 0:08:34He's going to create a curved area covered with bark
0:08:34 > 0:08:37for Aaron's toys and a swing for him to enjoy.
0:08:37 > 0:08:40He's going to put in a seat for Hayley and Kevin
0:08:40 > 0:08:41and add five circles of plants
0:08:41 > 0:08:44designed to stimulate Aaron's five senses.
0:08:44 > 0:08:48Finally, he's going to reshape the lawn ready for Hayley and Kevin
0:08:48 > 0:08:51to kick-start their own planting plans.
0:08:53 > 0:08:56There's a lot to do, but not a lot of time.
0:08:56 > 0:09:00Luckily, he's got his regular team of handyman AJ,
0:09:00 > 0:09:01and helpers Luke and Amyrose.
0:09:03 > 0:09:05All I'd like to do is reshape this lawn...
0:09:05 > 0:09:08- OK.- ..after I've lined it out with liner paint.
0:09:08 > 0:09:12- Get the lawn up. - Where's that going?- Good question.
0:09:12 > 0:09:15The excess is going to go in that corner over there,
0:09:15 > 0:09:17and we're going to use that as compost.
0:09:17 > 0:09:21Could you make a compost bin for me out of pallets?
0:09:21 > 0:09:23- OK, yeah.- I'm just thinking off the top of my head.
0:09:23 > 0:09:26It wasn't in my original plan,
0:09:26 > 0:09:31- but as we're speaking, I'm thinking it might be a good idea.- OK.
0:09:31 > 0:09:34Repurposing pallets is an Instant Garden favourite.
0:09:34 > 0:09:36They're cheap and sometimes even free.
0:09:36 > 0:09:39They can be used for all sorts of things -
0:09:39 > 0:09:40in this case, a composter.
0:09:40 > 0:09:43But it's an extra job on top of a full schedule.
0:09:43 > 0:09:47Fortunately, Danny can also call on help from Kevin, and his dad, Dennis.
0:09:48 > 0:09:52Plenty to do today, so perhaps you could go with AJ,
0:09:52 > 0:09:55- and if you can come with me, Dennis.- Sure.- Cheers.
0:09:55 > 0:09:58You've got the short straw, AJ.
0:09:58 > 0:10:00And while AJ and Kevin organise the pallets,
0:10:00 > 0:10:03Danny has spotted a problem that needs immediate attention.
0:10:03 > 0:10:05It's so wet. By the end of the day,
0:10:05 > 0:10:08if we're not careful and we keep walking on the lawn,
0:10:08 > 0:10:11we're going to end up in a squidgy mess.
0:10:11 > 0:10:13When you are undertaking a big job in the garden,
0:10:13 > 0:10:15it's well worth laying out large scaffold planks
0:10:15 > 0:10:17or large pieces of wood on the lawn
0:10:17 > 0:10:20so you don't ruin it with wheelbarrows and walking.
0:10:20 > 0:10:24Some of that lawn is going to be dug up to create a more pleasing shape.
0:10:25 > 0:10:27If you can imagine a paper bag,
0:10:27 > 0:10:30but with the middle squeezed in, all right?
0:10:30 > 0:10:33That's the kind of shape I want to create here.
0:10:33 > 0:10:35'Do you mean hourglass-shaped?'
0:10:35 > 0:10:37Nice, soft curves.
0:10:37 > 0:10:40Also, I think it's more pleasing on the eye to have a gentle curve.
0:10:40 > 0:10:43Yes, that'll be hourglass, then!
0:10:43 > 0:10:45So after using a hose pipe to get the shape he wants,
0:10:45 > 0:10:48Danny can mark it with spray paint.
0:10:49 > 0:10:53And Danny also needs to mark out the curve for Aaron's play area.
0:10:53 > 0:10:56I want to do an arc, like a quadrant,
0:10:56 > 0:11:00so it's going to be edged with an aluminium lawn edging. OK.
0:11:00 > 0:11:02This is going to be a barked area.
0:11:04 > 0:11:05Get low, get low to the ground.
0:11:05 > 0:11:07That's it, brilliant. Doing well.
0:11:10 > 0:11:11That's it.
0:11:11 > 0:11:14Over in the corner, there is an important discussion to be had
0:11:14 > 0:11:16about the design of the compost bay.
0:11:16 > 0:11:19I think the main thing is, as Aaron is getting older
0:11:19 > 0:11:23and a bit more adventurous, he's climbing more now,
0:11:23 > 0:11:25so because he's exclusively tube-fed,
0:11:25 > 0:11:27as he's climbing, he could catch it.
0:11:27 > 0:11:30If he catches it, it could come out.
0:11:30 > 0:11:34- So, I think, the safer we can make it, the better.- OK.
0:11:34 > 0:11:36With Aaron's safety at a premium,
0:11:36 > 0:11:39AJ's had a rethink and he's going to need to make a shopping trip.
0:11:39 > 0:11:41Kevin is a bit worried about little Aaron,
0:11:41 > 0:11:45so I'm going to have to go and get some materials
0:11:45 > 0:11:48to try and make some kind of gate to close it off -
0:11:48 > 0:11:50to, for want for a better word, "Aaron-fy" it.
0:11:50 > 0:11:53- "Aaron-fy" it, good.- OK.- Yeah, OK.
0:11:53 > 0:11:57While AJ comes up with a plan to make the compost bay safe for Aaron,
0:11:57 > 0:12:01I'm taking Hayley on a little jaunt to Royal Leamington Spa,
0:12:01 > 0:12:04where I hope we'll find plants that will stimulate his senses.
0:12:06 > 0:12:08So, Hayley, we are en route to a garden
0:12:08 > 0:12:10that I hope you are going to enjoy.
0:12:10 > 0:12:13Hopefully, you can have a bit of a look around, bit of a mooch around,
0:12:13 > 0:12:17and maybe there'll be a few things here that you think,
0:12:17 > 0:12:18"Ah, I'll do that and I'll do that."
0:12:18 > 0:12:20Yeah, sounds good.
0:12:20 > 0:12:22The Jephson Sensory Garden
0:12:22 > 0:12:27set in a corner of the town's public park is a feast for the senses.
0:12:27 > 0:12:30There are tactile textures to feel,
0:12:30 > 0:12:32aromatic plants to smell,
0:12:32 > 0:12:35opportunities to taste flavours and make sounds,
0:12:35 > 0:12:39as well as bright and bold things to look at.
0:12:39 > 0:12:42OK, Hayley, so...the sign says it all.
0:12:42 > 0:12:45A sensory garden and it does what it says on the tin.
0:12:45 > 0:12:50It's a real opportunity for people to explore some different touches,
0:12:50 > 0:12:53smells, textures. Hopefully, there will be a few things in there
0:12:53 > 0:12:56- that will really get Aaron's imagination running wild.- Yeah.
0:12:58 > 0:12:59This is the taste area,
0:12:59 > 0:13:03so some brambles, some chives, some raspberries.
0:13:03 > 0:13:04People are encouraged to pick and taste.
0:13:04 > 0:13:07That's lovely. I would definitely come here with Aaron.
0:13:07 > 0:13:10- He'd love it.- Wouldn't Aaron love something like this?
0:13:10 > 0:13:14Everybody loves these, don't they?!
0:13:14 > 0:13:16For four-year-olds and 40-year-olds, I think this is brilliant.
0:13:16 > 0:13:18Definitely, yeah, it's amazing.
0:13:18 > 0:13:21THEY PLAY
0:13:23 > 0:13:26Can you smell those lovely hyacinths?
0:13:26 > 0:13:29Beautiful, yeah, very aromatic.
0:13:29 > 0:13:31That is what you need to stimulate those senses, don't you,
0:13:31 > 0:13:34- in the brain?- Beautiful smell.
0:13:35 > 0:13:36Have a look at this.
0:13:36 > 0:13:38This is amazing.
0:13:38 > 0:13:42It's like being at the funfair with those weird mirrors almost!
0:13:42 > 0:13:43What would Aaron make of this?
0:13:43 > 0:13:47He'd love it. He'd be just looking at himself,
0:13:47 > 0:13:48trying to climb it,
0:13:48 > 0:13:50peering at himself from every angle.
0:13:50 > 0:13:54- Yeah, he'd love it.- Is that the kind of thing you would like to see?
0:13:54 > 0:13:57Your little boy playing, laughing, exploring?
0:13:57 > 0:14:00Definitely. I wouldn't have thought of anything like this,
0:14:00 > 0:14:02but, yeah, you could recreate a smaller version of this,
0:14:02 > 0:14:04couldn't you? It would be fantastic.
0:14:04 > 0:14:07Loads of fun for Aaron in here, but have a look out here.
0:14:08 > 0:14:10Something for you to enjoy.
0:14:10 > 0:14:13A climbing rose, some climbing sweet peas.
0:14:13 > 0:14:16You could cover the whole thing with it?
0:14:16 > 0:14:18While Hayley and I discover more clever ideas
0:14:18 > 0:14:21for stimulating the senses, back in the garden,
0:14:21 > 0:14:24it's time to start cutting out the new lawn shape.
0:14:24 > 0:14:28What we're going to have is an hourglass-shaped lawn.
0:14:29 > 0:14:32- Nice.- Do you like it? - I like your thinking.
0:14:32 > 0:14:34Hourglass, I told you!
0:14:34 > 0:14:36Using a half-moon lawn edger,
0:14:36 > 0:14:39it's now a simple matter of making a clean cut
0:14:39 > 0:14:41where Danny has sprayed his guide line.
0:14:41 > 0:14:44Just keep it nice and straight, and just follow the line.
0:14:46 > 0:14:49But in the play area, Dennis has hit a problem
0:14:49 > 0:14:52trying to cut out the curve that Danny has mapped out.
0:14:52 > 0:14:54There was a large tree here
0:14:54 > 0:14:57and I didn't grind that out.
0:14:57 > 0:15:01But Dennis isn't stumped and soon gets to the root of the problem.
0:15:01 > 0:15:04Having bought the extra materials he needs,
0:15:04 > 0:15:08AJ can now build a gate that will make the compost bay safe for Aaron.
0:15:09 > 0:15:11What I have done here
0:15:11 > 0:15:14is measured up this bit of gate -
0:15:14 > 0:15:16picket fence, whatever you want to call it -
0:15:16 > 0:15:19we're turning it into a gate.
0:15:19 > 0:15:22I'm going to put two hinges on the one end.
0:15:22 > 0:15:26Unfortunately, the hinges have been supplied with flatheaded screws.
0:15:26 > 0:15:28The problem I find with flatheads,
0:15:28 > 0:15:31is that when you get a flathead screwdriver into it,
0:15:31 > 0:15:32and you start turning it,
0:15:32 > 0:15:35if you haven't got the right pressure and the right angle,
0:15:35 > 0:15:38you end up making that slit there,
0:15:38 > 0:15:40which the head goes into, break.
0:15:40 > 0:15:42The screw is then useless.
0:15:42 > 0:15:45I'm going to change these screws that have come with it
0:15:45 > 0:15:47to some that I've got in me van
0:15:47 > 0:15:49that are Philips, which is the cross.
0:15:51 > 0:15:53Crosshead screws will make your DIY jobs easier
0:15:53 > 0:15:55and they're cheap to buy.
0:15:56 > 0:15:58Using them, AJ soon has the gate
0:15:58 > 0:16:01screwed onto the front of the compost bay.
0:16:03 > 0:16:05He's also added a lock which is hidden behind
0:16:05 > 0:16:07so Aaron won't be able to open it.
0:16:08 > 0:16:11That's one job down, but there are still plenty more to get on with.
0:16:17 > 0:16:20Meanwhile, Hayley and I are on a safari of the senses
0:16:20 > 0:16:25exploring the nearby Jephson Sensory Garden created by John Holmes.
0:16:27 > 0:16:29I think this garden has been designed brilliantly.
0:16:29 > 0:16:30Let's meet the man behind it.
0:16:30 > 0:16:32- John.- Nice to meet you.
0:16:32 > 0:16:35We love this sensory garden. There so much going on here!
0:16:35 > 0:16:38Yes, we've got lots of recycled things in here because all the trees
0:16:38 > 0:16:41we had to cut down to prepare for the garden are still here.
0:16:41 > 0:16:42So we've got log sculptures,
0:16:42 > 0:16:44also lots of plants which are touchy-feely.
0:16:44 > 0:16:48We've also got the lamb's ears - you can use these.
0:16:48 > 0:16:50- These are brilliant, aren't they? - They are.
0:16:50 > 0:16:52It is like a peach skin, isn't it?
0:16:52 > 0:16:55The little wall round there, that's been recycled, as well.
0:16:55 > 0:16:59It's so simple. Just this idea to create a little bedding area
0:16:59 > 0:17:01with stones or bricks that no-one wants
0:17:01 > 0:17:05and you can make it into a fun feature for a child, loads of ideas.
0:17:05 > 0:17:07Where do you begin planning a space like this?
0:17:07 > 0:17:10Anything that comes in here has to have lots of uses, so smell,
0:17:10 > 0:17:12touch, taste and structure.
0:17:12 > 0:17:15There's lots of colours in here. It's not very tastefully done -
0:17:15 > 0:17:17it's not all blues and pale pinks.
0:17:17 > 0:17:20It's very vibrant so people who are partially sighted
0:17:20 > 0:17:23can get a lot out of the dramatic changes in colour.
0:17:23 > 0:17:26What about taste? Because I am nervous about my son
0:17:26 > 0:17:28putting things in his mouth in the garden.
0:17:28 > 0:17:31We have chosen the plants specifically
0:17:31 > 0:17:33so they can be tasted with ease.
0:17:33 > 0:17:35So, we've got raspberries, we've got blackcurrants,
0:17:35 > 0:17:39- there's thornless blackberries, there's chard.- What about sound?
0:17:39 > 0:17:42Is there any plants or trees that you can use
0:17:42 > 0:17:44to create and audio effect?
0:17:44 > 0:17:47We left some of the mature trees in so when it is a windy day,
0:17:47 > 0:17:48you get the rustle through the leaves.
0:17:48 > 0:17:50The whole garden is wildlife friendly.
0:17:50 > 0:17:52It's not only good for people to look and enjoy,
0:17:52 > 0:17:55it's also good for wildlife, so it's full of pollinating plants
0:17:55 > 0:17:57and I'm hoping as the garden develops,
0:17:57 > 0:17:59that you will be able to sit in here
0:17:59 > 0:18:00and watch and see things and hear the hum.
0:18:00 > 0:18:02If you have ever been in a wood on a quiet day,
0:18:02 > 0:18:05you can hear the bees and all the insects around you
0:18:05 > 0:18:08- which is quite a nice sense to add. - It's very soothing, isn't it?- It is.
0:18:08 > 0:18:10John, I think it is fair to say our senses have been stimulated
0:18:10 > 0:18:13and we're certainly smiling, so thank you very much for your time.
0:18:13 > 0:18:15- Great job. Nice to meet you. - Nice to meet you both.
0:18:15 > 0:18:17- Good luck.- Thank you very much.
0:18:19 > 0:18:23Sensory gardens can offer something for absolutely everyone.
0:18:23 > 0:18:26While we're very familiar with the roughness of gravel
0:18:26 > 0:18:28and the smoothness of mirrors,
0:18:28 > 0:18:31plants, too, can offer very different touchy-feely experiences.
0:18:33 > 0:18:36Some of the most fragrant plants are herbs.
0:18:36 > 0:18:38They're readily available and cheap to buy.
0:18:38 > 0:18:41Lavender and rosemary are particularly pungent
0:18:41 > 0:18:42when you rub the leaves.
0:18:43 > 0:18:45And don't neglect sound.
0:18:45 > 0:18:48That might be simple music-making instruments,
0:18:48 > 0:18:49but the wind will waft and whistle
0:18:49 > 0:18:52through tall plants like bamboos and grasses.
0:18:54 > 0:18:58There's now just five hours left and, despite all the work,
0:18:58 > 0:19:00there's not a lot to show for it.
0:19:00 > 0:19:03Now, Danny has called on some professional tree surgeons
0:19:03 > 0:19:07to fix a rope to that huge oak in the play area.
0:19:07 > 0:19:10One of my ideas for the garden here
0:19:10 > 0:19:13was to have a swing for Aaron in that tree.
0:19:13 > 0:19:16As the rope swing goes so high,
0:19:16 > 0:19:18I recommend you don't do it yourself.
0:19:18 > 0:19:21I'd recommend you get tree surgeons in to do this
0:19:21 > 0:19:23from a health-and-safety point of view.
0:19:23 > 0:19:26You don't want to be climbing up a tree and falling out of it,
0:19:26 > 0:19:27because it's a long way down,
0:19:27 > 0:19:30and these guys have got the safety equipment.
0:19:30 > 0:19:32Once they've safely secured the rope,
0:19:32 > 0:19:34a swing can be attached later,
0:19:34 > 0:19:38but Danny's a lot to do if Aaron's going to have anything to look at
0:19:38 > 0:19:39when he's sat on the swing,
0:19:39 > 0:19:42so he's turning his attention to edging the play area.
0:19:44 > 0:19:46Here's my favourite flexible friend.
0:19:46 > 0:19:50This lovely lawn edging which I'm going to use as an edging
0:19:50 > 0:19:52for this area here which is going to be barked,
0:19:52 > 0:19:55which is going to be Aaron's play area.
0:19:55 > 0:19:57To really put this in,
0:19:57 > 0:19:59I need to go down into the earth
0:19:59 > 0:20:01and I reckon if I went down -
0:20:01 > 0:20:04I don't know, I reckon go down maybe
0:20:04 > 0:20:06an inch or so.
0:20:06 > 0:20:09To do that, I just need to form a gulley.
0:20:09 > 0:20:11So, I have already marked this out
0:20:11 > 0:20:14so now I'm just going to go along gradually
0:20:14 > 0:20:17and make a gulley all the way round.
0:20:17 > 0:20:20This gulley will allow him to hold the aluminium edging in position
0:20:20 > 0:20:22as he bends it around the play area.
0:20:23 > 0:20:28Gradually, I will make this quadrant of a circle
0:20:28 > 0:20:30which I'm aiming for.
0:20:31 > 0:20:34Over on the lawn, Kevin and Dennis are struggling to dig out
0:20:34 > 0:20:36all that waterlogged turf.
0:20:37 > 0:20:40You're doing a great job, guys.
0:20:40 > 0:20:42- How is it going? - Working our way through.
0:20:42 > 0:20:44In the quicksand and the swamp.
0:20:44 > 0:20:46The swamp, as well, yes.
0:20:46 > 0:20:49To give him a break, Danny asks Kevin
0:20:49 > 0:20:51to help him fit the metal edging.
0:20:51 > 0:20:54If you look at it here very closely,
0:20:54 > 0:20:56you can see these little grooves.
0:20:56 > 0:21:01OK? Now they slot into the grooves on the other side.
0:21:01 > 0:21:02These are where the pegs go,
0:21:02 > 0:21:05and these anchor the edging into the ground.
0:21:05 > 0:21:08- Got you.- The chances are we won't do this first time.
0:21:10 > 0:21:13That's it. Just got to be a bit patient with it.
0:21:13 > 0:21:15Don't rush it, and eventually you do it.
0:21:16 > 0:21:18Keep going.
0:21:18 > 0:21:20- That's it.- About there? Yep.
0:21:20 > 0:21:22Danny also has preformed aluminium frames
0:21:22 > 0:21:26that he plans to use for his sensory plants.
0:21:26 > 0:21:28We've got two semicircles
0:21:28 > 0:21:33- which we're going to clip in to make a complete circle.- OK.- OK?
0:21:33 > 0:21:36There's a lot of garden to deal with, and do you know what?
0:21:36 > 0:21:39I just wonder if we've bitten off more than we can chew.
0:21:40 > 0:21:44Don't be so negative, Danny! Get him a cup of tea, someone.
0:21:45 > 0:21:47'Meanwhile, back at the sensory garden,
0:21:47 > 0:21:51'Hayley and I are taking the morning to reflect.'
0:21:51 > 0:21:53So, Hayley, talk to me about Aaron
0:21:53 > 0:21:56- because he is 4½ years old.- He is.
0:21:56 > 0:21:58But already, he's been through a lot.
0:21:58 > 0:22:03His life has really been one long, sort of... In-and-out of hospital,
0:22:03 > 0:22:06recovering, which has meant, developmentally,
0:22:06 > 0:22:09both from a learning point of view and a physical point of view,
0:22:09 > 0:22:11he has been delayed.
0:22:11 > 0:22:14But it feels like we're past the worst of it now
0:22:14 > 0:22:17and he's starting to get stronger, healthier,
0:22:17 > 0:22:21and so, we're kind of ready to do as much as we can
0:22:21 > 0:22:23to sort of bring him on with his development now.
0:22:23 > 0:22:25Physically, how is he at the minute?
0:22:25 > 0:22:28He's been on a feeding tube pretty much since birth
0:22:28 > 0:22:31and he developed a very severe oral aversion,
0:22:31 > 0:22:35which has meant he doesn't eat food at all.
0:22:35 > 0:22:39He's completely fed through a tube which goes directly into his tummy.
0:22:39 > 0:22:43So, our main focus over the next year is helping his development,
0:22:43 > 0:22:45but also seeing if we can get him off that feeding tube, really,
0:22:45 > 0:22:49because there is no medical reason for him to have it any more.
0:22:49 > 0:22:51It's full-on, isn't it, for you and Kevin?
0:22:51 > 0:22:54It is part of life for us now and we just do it.
0:22:54 > 0:22:56But it does require that extra level of thought
0:22:56 > 0:23:00and also, there's always a bit of a worry in the back of your mind.
0:23:00 > 0:23:02You know - is he going to pull the tube out?
0:23:02 > 0:23:04Is someone going to trip over it? Is it going to hurt him?
0:23:04 > 0:23:07You've got that protectiveness there. That's always there.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10Also, it's not as if... You can't maybe just say,
0:23:10 > 0:23:14"Oh, I'll just drop Aaron off at his mate's house.
0:23:14 > 0:23:16"I'll just drop Aaron off with family or friends."
0:23:16 > 0:23:20You can't say, "I'm going to disappear for a few hours." Can you?
0:23:20 > 0:23:21No, you can't, because, you know,
0:23:21 > 0:23:24somebody has to be trained up to be able to look after a child
0:23:24 > 0:23:28who's tube-fed. We're so grateful that we have got Aaron.
0:23:28 > 0:23:29He's been through so much,
0:23:29 > 0:23:33and we've nearly lost him a couple of times, so, you know,
0:23:33 > 0:23:35just the fact that he's with us still,
0:23:35 > 0:23:38we're not bothered about the fact that we have to look after him
0:23:38 > 0:23:40and never get to go out.
0:23:40 > 0:23:42Aaron's quite wobbly on his feet at the minute.
0:23:42 > 0:23:45What is he like in a park or in your garden at the minute?
0:23:45 > 0:23:49He has really come along a long way since...
0:23:49 > 0:23:52Particularly since last summer, but every day is getting better.
0:23:52 > 0:23:56Just walking in a garden is physiotherapy.
0:23:56 > 0:23:59You know, it helps his gross motor skills and doing the little things
0:23:59 > 0:24:02that you do in a garden like watering plants
0:24:02 > 0:24:04or touching things or planting.
0:24:04 > 0:24:06They help the fine motor skills, as well,
0:24:06 > 0:24:10so gardens are just an opportunity to help bring his development on.
0:24:10 > 0:24:12What about for you as a family?
0:24:12 > 0:24:16Does this garden offer you a space to just be a family?
0:24:16 > 0:24:19Absolutely, yeah. It will be lovely to just come out into the garden,
0:24:19 > 0:24:21and just literally play and do things
0:24:21 > 0:24:23which are also helping his development,
0:24:23 > 0:24:26but just feel like a lovely family experience, as well.
0:24:26 > 0:24:29Yeah, everything that makes Aaron happy makes us happy. Yeah.
0:24:29 > 0:24:31We're never going to get our garden finished
0:24:31 > 0:24:33if we don't get to the garden centre
0:24:33 > 0:24:37- and get back there and help out, so let's go to the garden centre.- OK.
0:24:37 > 0:24:39With three and half hours to go,
0:24:39 > 0:24:42the garden is looking like a field of brown mud,
0:24:42 > 0:24:45but at least Danny has now put in most of the edging
0:24:45 > 0:24:49for the play area, as well as three of his framed circles
0:24:49 > 0:24:51that he plans to fill with sensory plants
0:24:51 > 0:24:54and he's got an idea where to get two more.
0:24:54 > 0:24:55So, what I'm going to do here,
0:24:55 > 0:24:58I've got a ready-made preformed circle
0:24:58 > 0:25:01and all I'm going to do is cut it about there
0:25:01 > 0:25:03and then sink it in the ground.
0:25:03 > 0:25:07What we've got here is a recycled recycling bin.
0:25:07 > 0:25:09Sounds like a job for AJ.
0:25:09 > 0:25:11Now, what we need to do is cut round.
0:25:11 > 0:25:12- Any ideas what we can use?- Jigsaw.
0:25:12 > 0:25:14Do you want me to come down here a bit
0:25:14 > 0:25:17- so that this sticks in the ground more?- Yeah, if you can.
0:25:17 > 0:25:21Come down and we can put this in the ground and this will be brilliant.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24- Leave it with me.- It's perfectly timed. We've got two to do.
0:25:24 > 0:25:26- That one over there, as well. - Two?!- Sorry.
0:25:26 > 0:25:29Can we just run around the garden like Daleks or something?
0:25:29 > 0:25:30- Like this. - THEY LAUGH
0:25:30 > 0:25:34Exterminate! Exterminate!
0:25:34 > 0:25:37Looks a bit like you boys are having too much fun.
0:25:37 > 0:25:40While they get the garden looking good,
0:25:40 > 0:25:43Hayley and I are on a mission to make it smell good
0:25:43 > 0:25:46by getting the highly scented lavender and sweet peas
0:25:46 > 0:25:47on Danny's shopping list.
0:25:49 > 0:25:52OK, so here we are at your local garden centre.
0:25:52 > 0:25:54I think you have probably been here before.
0:25:54 > 0:25:56Yes, this is my local. I'm a member of the club.
0:25:56 > 0:25:58So, you will know it well.
0:25:58 > 0:26:01- You'll be able to lead me. - I know it very well, yeah.
0:26:01 > 0:26:04We have seen how features and xylophones and mirrors and things
0:26:04 > 0:26:07can make a garden a sensory experience.
0:26:07 > 0:26:08I think we can find some plants
0:26:08 > 0:26:11- that contribute to that sensory experience.- Yeah.
0:26:12 > 0:26:14'When we're out shopping for plants,
0:26:14 > 0:26:17'we tend to focus on what they look like at the moment we buy them.
0:26:17 > 0:26:20'However, it's better to take a more holistic approach.
0:26:20 > 0:26:23'For instance, what will they look like in autumn and winter
0:26:23 > 0:26:25'and what about the other senses?
0:26:25 > 0:26:28'Why not try feeling and smelling them?
0:26:28 > 0:26:31'Though maybe draw the line at tasting them,
0:26:31 > 0:26:32'as you could poison yourself.
0:26:32 > 0:26:36'Your local garden centre will usually provide expert advice,
0:26:36 > 0:26:39'so we tracked down the outdoor manager, Miles Butterworth.'
0:26:40 > 0:26:42Miles, sorry to interrupt.
0:26:42 > 0:26:43Hello, this is Hayley.
0:26:43 > 0:26:45- Hello, Hayley. - Hello, nice to meet you.
0:26:45 > 0:26:48We are in search of some sensory plants.
0:26:48 > 0:26:50We're after something that would be good for touch,
0:26:50 > 0:26:53so good for Hayley's son, Aaron,
0:26:53 > 0:26:55to get his fingers in amongst.
0:26:55 > 0:26:58OK, we've got a great selection of plants here, actually.
0:26:58 > 0:27:00We've got lavenders.
0:27:00 > 0:27:04Lavender are great. Very easy to grow and they have got, obviously,
0:27:04 > 0:27:06the added value of scent.
0:27:06 > 0:27:09They've got a really nice silvery foliage.
0:27:09 > 0:27:11Very soft to the touch.
0:27:11 > 0:27:13Great by pathways, as well, because as you walk by,
0:27:13 > 0:27:16as you rub against them, it actually gives off more scent.
0:27:16 > 0:27:19On a summer's evening, when it's nice and warm,
0:27:19 > 0:27:21you get a fantastic, fantastic scent from that.
0:27:21 > 0:27:23They do feel furry, don't they?
0:27:23 > 0:27:24Yes, they do. It's lovely.
0:27:24 > 0:27:28The silver foliage is like tiny hairs on the leaves
0:27:28 > 0:27:30of the plants and that deflects the wind
0:27:30 > 0:27:33and stops them drying out, so they're great
0:27:33 > 0:27:35for a very hot, sunny position.
0:27:35 > 0:27:36It's slightly furry to the touch.
0:27:36 > 0:27:39- That's very nice.- Let's take a couple of these, then.
0:27:39 > 0:27:42Another selection of plants we've got here is the Erica Albert's Gold,
0:27:42 > 0:27:45which is known as the tree heather. Feel that?
0:27:45 > 0:27:47It has a real feathery touch to it.
0:27:47 > 0:27:49- That's lovely.- Really nice to feel.
0:27:49 > 0:27:53Great in a sunny spot. If you put it in a bit of a shady spot,
0:27:53 > 0:27:55it loses some of its colour and it goes a bit green,
0:27:55 > 0:27:58so if you keep it in a sunny position, it stays yellow.
0:27:58 > 0:28:01It gets to probably about three to four foot tall in the end.
0:28:01 > 0:28:04That's brilliant. That does feel different, completely different
0:28:04 > 0:28:06- to that, doesn't it?- It does. That's really soft
0:28:06 > 0:28:09and that's still soft, so it will be safe for a child to touch.
0:28:09 > 0:28:11That is touch sorted. What about smell?
0:28:11 > 0:28:13I've got a lovely selection of fragrant plants.
0:28:13 > 0:28:16- If you'd like to follow me. I'll show you.- Lead the way.
0:28:18 > 0:28:20While Hayley and I are treating ourselves
0:28:20 > 0:28:24to a bit of retail therapy, the clock is ticking for the team.
0:28:24 > 0:28:26They've got just over two hours left,
0:28:26 > 0:28:28though at least the play bark is going in.
0:28:28 > 0:28:32This is a cheap and easy way of covering a large muddy area
0:28:32 > 0:28:34and making a big difference in an instant
0:28:34 > 0:28:36and because it has no sharp edges,
0:28:36 > 0:28:39it's completely safe for the children to play on.
0:28:41 > 0:28:44Let's take in a dozen bags. How many more bags do you think we need?
0:28:44 > 0:28:46I think you'd need 20.
0:28:46 > 0:28:49There's more bark coming, which is a relief,
0:28:49 > 0:28:51so we need to do turn the soil over in this area
0:28:51 > 0:28:54- and then we're ready to put the plants in...- OK.
0:28:54 > 0:28:57- ..which is going to bring the whole scheme together.- Great.
0:28:57 > 0:29:01- Do you think Hayley will like it? - Yeah, I think she will
0:29:01 > 0:29:03because it was just that blank canvas,
0:29:03 > 0:29:07and, actually, it's got much more definition, bit more character
0:29:07 > 0:29:09and there's the zone for Aaron, as well,
0:29:09 > 0:29:11which there hasn't really been, so,
0:29:11 > 0:29:13you know, I really hope she will.
0:29:13 > 0:29:16The great thing is it's given you guys a start.
0:29:16 > 0:29:19We haven't done the whole garden, but that is impossible in a day.
0:29:19 > 0:29:21- All you need to do is build on it, really.- Yeah, definitely.
0:29:21 > 0:29:24Get more plants in the beds, that sort of thing.
0:29:24 > 0:29:25It's very easy.
0:29:25 > 0:29:27And while he's turning over the soil,
0:29:27 > 0:29:29Danny decides to recycle an old tyre
0:29:29 > 0:29:32to make another sensory planting circle
0:29:32 > 0:29:35which would make it a sixth sense, wouldn't it?
0:29:35 > 0:29:36I guess with a tyre like that,
0:29:36 > 0:29:39we should have a rubber plant there? Anyway...
0:29:39 > 0:29:41This guy is good, you know.
0:29:41 > 0:29:44- I'm here all week.- Rubber plant... - Thank you and goodnight.
0:29:44 > 0:29:47He's not "tyre-some" with it all, is he?
0:29:47 > 0:29:51The garden is starting to shape up with the bark arriving
0:29:51 > 0:29:53and loads of sensory plants.
0:29:54 > 0:29:55Genius.
0:29:55 > 0:29:57Do you know what comes next? It's the planting.
0:29:57 > 0:29:59So, we've got more digging to do,
0:29:59 > 0:30:01but at least this ground is now prepared
0:30:01 > 0:30:04and it will make it easier for us to put the plants in.
0:30:04 > 0:30:07Now, look at this array of gorgeous plants.
0:30:07 > 0:30:10Now, these are all plants that are here to titillate the senses.
0:30:10 > 0:30:14Absolutely gorgeous. There is some smelly plants over there,
0:30:14 > 0:30:17there's some plants here that are going to be great for sight
0:30:17 > 0:30:19because they're full of colour
0:30:19 > 0:30:22and there's some plants here that are really touchy-feely.
0:30:22 > 0:30:24Some lovely bamboo over there.
0:30:24 > 0:30:27Red Dragon. It's absolutely gorgeous.
0:30:27 > 0:30:29The movements give that lovely swishy sound
0:30:29 > 0:30:32which I think Aaron will really appreciate.
0:30:32 > 0:30:34So, now, it's time to place them out
0:30:34 > 0:30:36and then get them in the ground.
0:30:36 > 0:30:38It can be a bit overwhelming,
0:30:38 > 0:30:41arranging where this many plants should go in a garden,
0:30:41 > 0:30:43but, fortunately, they are all potted
0:30:43 > 0:30:46so they can be laid out on the soil surface.
0:30:46 > 0:30:49That way, you can get an overall impression of how they look
0:30:49 > 0:30:51before you dig anything in.
0:30:51 > 0:30:54You should always start by positioning the larger ones first.
0:30:55 > 0:30:58I'm going to place these fruit trees.
0:30:58 > 0:30:59When I'm satisfied,
0:30:59 > 0:31:01then I'll put the bamboos in,
0:31:01 > 0:31:02and then, the lower-growing plants.
0:31:04 > 0:31:06While Danny and the team get to grips with that lot,
0:31:06 > 0:31:09Hayley and I are now looking for plants
0:31:09 > 0:31:11that have a great fragrance
0:31:11 > 0:31:14and will be on the nose for her son Aaron.
0:31:14 > 0:31:16Right, so, fragrance, aromatic plants.
0:31:16 > 0:31:19I see you've brought us to the sweet peas, which I love.
0:31:19 > 0:31:23An absolute staple of any cottage garden. Fantastic scent.
0:31:23 > 0:31:26Great for cut flowers, so you can actually bring the scent
0:31:26 > 0:31:28into your home by cutting regularly.
0:31:28 > 0:31:32What you do is when the flowers start to fade or go to seed,
0:31:32 > 0:31:36you prune them off and that encourages more flowers,
0:31:36 > 0:31:38and therefore, more scent for your garden.
0:31:38 > 0:31:41How much experience do you have with sweet peas, then, Hayley?
0:31:41 > 0:31:43None at all. I've never tried to grow a sweet pea.
0:31:43 > 0:31:45I don't know anything about them at all.
0:31:45 > 0:31:47They're relatively easy to grow, aren't they?
0:31:47 > 0:31:49They will get quite leggy -
0:31:49 > 0:31:51just have to pinch out, pinch the tips down,
0:31:51 > 0:31:54down to the next set of leaves.
0:31:54 > 0:31:56What that does is encourages side shoots
0:31:56 > 0:31:58and those side shoots will produce more flowers.
0:31:58 > 0:32:01So, the bushier the plant, the more flowers you'll get
0:32:01 > 0:32:03and the more fragrance for your garden.
0:32:03 > 0:32:06- You need them to grow up something? - You need to give them support.
0:32:06 > 0:32:09They are great for growing up obelisks or trellis.
0:32:09 > 0:32:12If you haven't got that, if you want them to grow up the wall,
0:32:12 > 0:32:15you just stretch wire across a wall and tie them in.
0:32:15 > 0:32:18The important thing is to tie them in as they're growing
0:32:18 > 0:32:20because they're quite flimsy
0:32:20 > 0:32:22and you don't want them flopping around in the wind
0:32:22 > 0:32:26and falling over. So, remember to tie them in as they're growing.
0:32:26 > 0:32:27OK, let's take some of these.
0:32:27 > 0:32:29I love them. Would you stick to one type?
0:32:29 > 0:32:33You've got quite a large array of colours in the sweet pea family,
0:32:33 > 0:32:35so if you want that Smartie effect,
0:32:35 > 0:32:38really inspire the visual senses, it's a great plant to do.
0:32:38 > 0:32:39Pick different colours.
0:32:39 > 0:32:42It's going to be a real eye-catcher in the garden.
0:32:42 > 0:32:45Right, let's get a load of these, because they are on Danny's list.
0:32:45 > 0:32:46- OK.- Thank you very much.
0:32:46 > 0:32:50- No problem at all.- Cheers. - Have a good day. OK, bye.
0:32:50 > 0:32:52'While Hayley goes off to collect Aaron,
0:32:52 > 0:32:54'I now need to head back to the garden
0:32:54 > 0:32:56'with some great sensory plants
0:32:56 > 0:32:58'and get them planted pronto.'
0:32:58 > 0:33:00But with just 90 minutes to go,
0:33:00 > 0:33:02there seems to be more chin-wagging than digging.
0:33:03 > 0:33:06What sort of height will the bamboo actually grow to?
0:33:06 > 0:33:09They can grow very large, but they do need a lot of water.
0:33:09 > 0:33:11That's one of the reasons we planted them here
0:33:11 > 0:33:13and they're going to get the sun, as well.
0:33:13 > 0:33:15You really do need to do SOME maintenance.
0:33:15 > 0:33:18They don't need a lot of maintenance because there's no such thing
0:33:18 > 0:33:20as a garden with no maintenance.
0:33:20 > 0:33:22- There's low-maintenance. - I'm comfortable with low.
0:33:22 > 0:33:24Never mind the maintenance,
0:33:24 > 0:33:26you've got actually get them in the ground first!
0:33:26 > 0:33:29Now those bamboos and trees are placed to Danny's liking,
0:33:29 > 0:33:32all he has got to do is arrange his sensory plants,
0:33:32 > 0:33:33then he can get digging.
0:33:33 > 0:33:37But you'd better get a move on, Danny! Time is running out.
0:33:43 > 0:33:44With everything positioned,
0:33:44 > 0:33:46Danny can finally begin planting,
0:33:46 > 0:33:49and he's got some tips on how to plant trees.
0:33:49 > 0:33:52This is a pear and I've planted this for Aaron
0:33:52 > 0:33:56because it produces this beautiful white flower at March time.
0:33:56 > 0:33:59What I do, when I plant trees,
0:33:59 > 0:34:02I generally use a square hole rather than a round hole.
0:34:02 > 0:34:05If you're using a round hole, the roots keep going round and round.
0:34:05 > 0:34:08There are a few roots in there, but I've got a nice sharp spade
0:34:08 > 0:34:11which is helping me get through.
0:34:11 > 0:34:16Now, it's very important that you don't plant your tree too deep, OK?
0:34:16 > 0:34:18I'm doing a nice big hole here,
0:34:18 > 0:34:22but I'm going to backfill with a little bit of compost.
0:34:22 > 0:34:24You've got a graft to here,
0:34:24 > 0:34:28so you want to put the soil in the ground below that graft.
0:34:28 > 0:34:30Never come up above that graft.
0:34:30 > 0:34:33But, for safety's sake, I'm just going to make sure
0:34:33 > 0:34:36the tree's put in the ground at that level.
0:34:36 > 0:34:40With any tree, don't go throwing soil against the tree,
0:34:40 > 0:34:43because there's a chance you might kill it.
0:34:43 > 0:34:46That's probably about the height that I want
0:34:46 > 0:34:48to put the tree in the ground, OK?
0:34:48 > 0:34:50That's about what you call a spit.
0:34:50 > 0:34:52The length of a spade.
0:34:52 > 0:34:55Although the hole he has dug is already the right depth,
0:34:55 > 0:34:58Danny wants to loosen the soil inside so that the tree's roots
0:34:58 > 0:35:02can find it easier to establish themselves in their new position.
0:35:02 > 0:35:06I really want to give this tree the best possible chance
0:35:06 > 0:35:08at the start of its life,
0:35:08 > 0:35:11and now, I'm going to offer that into the hole.
0:35:14 > 0:35:16I think that is positioned quite nicely.
0:35:16 > 0:35:18All I need to do was get some compost,
0:35:18 > 0:35:21mix in with the soil that's there and backfill.
0:35:21 > 0:35:24Make sure it gets a lot of water
0:35:24 > 0:35:27and that tree will be as happy as Larry.
0:35:27 > 0:35:30Now, one last job is to stake it properly.
0:35:30 > 0:35:33With staking, you still want the tree to rock a bit.
0:35:33 > 0:35:36You don't want the tree to be rigid
0:35:36 > 0:35:38because if it rocks, it will send anchors out.
0:35:38 > 0:35:40It's a bit of tough love, really.
0:35:40 > 0:35:43Get a few...juicy bangs.
0:35:46 > 0:35:48And here's another tip when you plant trees.
0:35:48 > 0:35:53It is always an idea when planting, especially trees,
0:35:53 > 0:35:54to plant in threes.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57The reason being is that you want your eye to be fooled.
0:35:57 > 0:35:59You don't want it to look contrived.
0:35:59 > 0:36:01It's OK for formality.
0:36:01 > 0:36:03You can plant in even numbers,
0:36:03 > 0:36:06but in this case, it is better to do it in odd numbers
0:36:06 > 0:36:09because we want to create that woodland-y feel.
0:36:09 > 0:36:12If you've been wondering what AJ has been up to
0:36:12 > 0:36:14while Danny has been busy planting,
0:36:14 > 0:36:17he's been converting an old, unloved bench
0:36:17 > 0:36:19into a tree seat for Mum and Dad
0:36:19 > 0:36:21so they have somewhere comfortable to sit
0:36:21 > 0:36:24while Aaron enjoys his new play area.
0:36:24 > 0:36:26These are the two pads that your back leans against,
0:36:26 > 0:36:28I think it need to be screwed in twice
0:36:28 > 0:36:30to give it some more strength.
0:36:30 > 0:36:32That's what actually holds it all together,
0:36:32 > 0:36:36so I'm just putting a few more in.
0:36:36 > 0:36:40But will it work as a seat under the tree for Hayley and Kevin?
0:36:40 > 0:36:41Danny?
0:36:41 > 0:36:43Oh, you've got the tree seat!
0:36:43 > 0:36:44Tree seat, yeah.
0:36:47 > 0:36:49- Oh, look at that.- Does it fit?
0:36:49 > 0:36:50Does it fit or does it fit?
0:36:50 > 0:36:52Come on, then, king.
0:36:57 > 0:36:59That's enough, because you've still got a lot to do.
0:36:59 > 0:37:01You tell him, AJ!
0:37:01 > 0:37:03Those plants aren't going to dig themselves in!
0:37:05 > 0:37:08- Hello.- Why isn't it finished?
0:37:08 > 0:37:11- Good question.- What do you mean, why isn't it finished? It is!
0:37:11 > 0:37:12'No rest for the wicked, eh, Danny?'
0:37:12 > 0:37:15- Cheeky monkey. - Yeah, why isn't it finished?
0:37:15 > 0:37:18Because we're waiting for you to help us to finish it.
0:37:18 > 0:37:19Right, there's a jasmine.
0:37:19 > 0:37:21- Thank you.- Hayley liked it.
0:37:21 > 0:37:24- I know it wasn't on your list, but she liked it.- OK.
0:37:24 > 0:37:27I call that a dog daisy. What is it officially?
0:37:27 > 0:37:29- It's a chrysanthemum.- Of course it is.- Absolutely gorgeous.
0:37:29 > 0:37:32And another lavender.
0:37:32 > 0:37:35Seriously, I think the world of you.
0:37:35 > 0:37:37- Come on, what's going on? - We're almost there.
0:37:37 > 0:37:40What's happening with the clock scheduling thing?
0:37:40 > 0:37:41We're almost there. What do you think?
0:37:41 > 0:37:44I think you need to be working a little bit quicker, my friend.
0:37:44 > 0:37:46So, I'm not getting any encouragement from you?
0:37:46 > 0:37:49I'm in shock. Right, come on, Danny, give me a job!
0:37:49 > 0:37:51There's something on the patio over there.
0:37:51 > 0:37:54I don't know if you can see it. The white chimney pot.
0:37:54 > 0:37:57- Shall we get it brought down and you can plant it up?- OK.
0:37:57 > 0:37:59Thank you.
0:37:59 > 0:38:02'An upcycled chimney pot. Brilliant.'
0:38:02 > 0:38:04Where do you want this?
0:38:04 > 0:38:06If you could just put it by the tree seat
0:38:06 > 0:38:07and then we'll fill it with compost.
0:38:07 > 0:38:11- Oh, my days.- Here's the compost.
0:38:11 > 0:38:12Right, I'm looking at this and thinking
0:38:12 > 0:38:16we need something to pad it out a little bit more.
0:38:16 > 0:38:19'Those old turf offcuts in the new compost bay will do nicely.'
0:38:28 > 0:38:32'Meanwhile, Danny can get the plants in his sensory circles.'
0:38:34 > 0:38:38I have just planted up this tyre with these lovely lamb's ears.
0:38:38 > 0:38:42This is a real touchy-feely plant and Aaron's going to love this.
0:38:42 > 0:38:46The reason these are called lamb's ears... Guess?
0:38:46 > 0:38:49Cos they feel like lamb's ears to the touch.
0:38:49 > 0:38:52Nice and soft and they've got a velvety feel to them.
0:38:52 > 0:38:54Absolutely beautiful.
0:38:54 > 0:38:56This is heuchera.
0:38:56 > 0:38:58This is one of my favourite plants.
0:38:58 > 0:39:00This comes in a range of colours.
0:39:00 > 0:39:03You can get them in yellows, in lemon colours,
0:39:03 > 0:39:07you can get them in reds, and this is a bronze. These are great.
0:39:07 > 0:39:11They're evergreens and they will show colour all year round.
0:39:11 > 0:39:15Aaron is going to love these because they are very soft
0:39:15 > 0:39:18and if he falls on them, it's not going to do the plant any damage
0:39:18 > 0:39:21because they're as tough as old boots.
0:39:21 > 0:39:24'I'm hoping that's the case with most of these plants,
0:39:24 > 0:39:27'but none of them will survive unless we get them in the soil.'
0:39:27 > 0:39:28This bamboo, I love it.
0:39:28 > 0:39:32I'm not very familiar with it. It's a red bamboo.
0:39:32 > 0:39:35It's a great plant for Aaron, and the reason being,
0:39:35 > 0:39:38- just listen to the sound. - LEAVES RUSTLE
0:39:38 > 0:39:40It's going to rustle in the breeze.
0:39:43 > 0:39:48Sight. I mean, what is better for sight than these nemesias?
0:39:48 > 0:39:50They are absolutely wonderful, and do you know what?
0:39:50 > 0:39:53These will flower their socks off all year round.
0:39:53 > 0:39:56All you've got to do is pinch them out and they will just carry on.
0:39:56 > 0:39:59These nemesias are going in those rings over there.
0:39:59 > 0:40:03I'm going to pack them full so it's going to be a riot of colour.
0:40:04 > 0:40:07They are all wonderful, but as the light starts to fade,
0:40:07 > 0:40:09time is fast running out.
0:40:09 > 0:40:12It's now a frantic race to finish off the planting
0:40:12 > 0:40:15and tidy everything up, ready for our big reveal.
0:40:15 > 0:40:17You can still stand.
0:40:17 > 0:40:20Just about. Dennis, I think we just about made it...
0:40:20 > 0:40:23- I think so.- ..by the skin of our teeth.- Just about.
0:40:24 > 0:40:27When we arrived at Hayley and Kevin's garden this morning,
0:40:27 > 0:40:31we were confronted by a big, barren space with a messy-shaped lawn
0:40:31 > 0:40:34and a big, muddy patch at the bottom.
0:40:34 > 0:40:36But in just a few hours,
0:40:36 > 0:40:38Danny and the team have transformed it
0:40:38 > 0:40:42by reshaping the lawn and creating a wonderful sensory playground
0:40:42 > 0:40:44for their son, Aaron.
0:40:44 > 0:40:47The shapeless section of soil under the trees
0:40:47 > 0:40:50has been turned into an attractive curved area covered in play bark
0:40:50 > 0:40:53where Aaron can play with his toys.
0:40:53 > 0:40:57Danny has also fixed a swing to the tall oak for him to enjoy.
0:40:59 > 0:41:02That formerly featureless space has also been transformed
0:41:02 > 0:41:06for Kevin and Hayley by providing a semi-circular seat around the tree
0:41:06 > 0:41:08and a secure compost bay the back of the garden
0:41:08 > 0:41:10that will be safe for Aaron.
0:41:12 > 0:41:13It's the sensory planting
0:41:13 > 0:41:16that makes this garden truly dazzle the senses.
0:41:16 > 0:41:20Danny has used flowers with brightly coloured petals and herbs
0:41:20 > 0:41:22that smell and taste delicious.
0:41:23 > 0:41:26He's added wonderfully fragrant blooms,
0:41:26 > 0:41:29as well as plants with soft leaves that are a delight to touch.
0:41:31 > 0:41:32And he's planted swishy bamboo
0:41:32 > 0:41:35that will produce a range of wonderful sounds
0:41:35 > 0:41:36when the winds blow through them.
0:41:38 > 0:41:41All in all, it's a truly magnificent achievement.
0:41:41 > 0:41:43Well done, Danny.
0:41:43 > 0:41:46But what will Hayley and Kevin - and most importantly, Aaron -
0:41:46 > 0:41:48think of all the hard work?
0:41:50 > 0:41:52Right, OK.
0:41:52 > 0:41:54We've been grafting all day for you.
0:41:54 > 0:41:56Yeah.
0:41:56 > 0:41:58OK, team...
0:41:59 > 0:42:05Hayley, now you can have a look at your garden.
0:42:05 > 0:42:07Wow, that's amazing.
0:42:07 > 0:42:10What have you seen, Aaron?
0:42:10 > 0:42:14Look at your garden.
0:42:14 > 0:42:16Do you like it?
0:42:16 > 0:42:18- Is it good?- Yeah!
0:42:20 > 0:42:21Ready.
0:42:22 > 0:42:24Wow!
0:42:24 > 0:42:26Kevin, are you exhausted?
0:42:26 > 0:42:28Do you know what? No. It's been a really good day.
0:42:28 > 0:42:30It's been a lot of hard work.
0:42:30 > 0:42:32The guys have been great.
0:42:32 > 0:42:36- Oh, Aaron's off. Aaron's off! - He's having a look what there is.
0:42:36 > 0:42:39Hayley, you wanted a space that Aaron would explore and enjoy.
0:42:39 > 0:42:41- Have you got that? - Oh, definitely, yeah.
0:42:41 > 0:42:46It's fantastic and he's going to love all of the aspects of this.
0:42:46 > 0:42:47Danny's put in lots of plants -
0:42:47 > 0:42:50lots of different things to touch, to smell, to sniff.
0:42:50 > 0:42:52We've got plants for sight over there.
0:42:52 > 0:42:55plants with lots of colour in the rings
0:42:55 > 0:42:58and obviously sound's important,
0:42:58 > 0:42:59so we've chosen bamboos for that.
0:42:59 > 0:43:03Yeah, so you get the rustling of the wind.
0:43:03 > 0:43:07So, the theme is to choose plants that titillate the senses, really.
0:43:07 > 0:43:09It should be great for Aaron.
0:43:09 > 0:43:12And there's a bit for you, as well, with the seat.
0:43:12 > 0:43:13Yeah, it's lovely.
0:43:13 > 0:43:16That would be really nice in the summer and nice and shady.
0:43:16 > 0:43:19It's an area for both of you.
0:43:19 > 0:43:26Do you know what, guys? You started with a blank canvas this afternoon.
0:43:26 > 0:43:28You said you didn't really know where to go.
0:43:28 > 0:43:31Hopefully, we've given you a platform from which
0:43:31 > 0:43:32to grow your gardening.
0:43:32 > 0:43:34The garden is everything that we could have hoped.
0:43:34 > 0:43:37This area is exactly what we needed.
0:43:37 > 0:43:39You can see how much it means to Aaron,
0:43:39 > 0:43:41so a massive thank you to everybody.
0:43:44 > 0:43:48In terms of the garden, this is just the start for them.
0:43:48 > 0:43:50They can build on this adventure playground
0:43:50 > 0:43:53and they'll have more space for Aaron to grow with the garden,
0:43:53 > 0:43:55for the family to grow as a whole. Do you know what?
0:43:55 > 0:43:58They have been through a phenomenal amount already
0:43:58 > 0:44:00and the next chapter for them is challenging,
0:44:00 > 0:44:02but hopefully very, very exciting.
0:44:03 > 0:44:06Another triumph for Danny and the team.
0:44:06 > 0:44:08Once again they've managed to create an impressive
0:44:08 > 0:44:12and delightful garden in just a few hours.
0:44:12 > 0:44:14Hayley and Kevin can now enjoy the positive change
0:44:14 > 0:44:18it will hopefully make to Aaron's life and their own.
0:44:18 > 0:44:21Join us again next time to see another garden transformed
0:44:21 > 0:44:23by The Instant Gardener.