Sun's out: six simple ways to give your outside space a summer makeover

The Chelsea Flower Show is back from May 22 to 26 and it's blooming with inspiration for your outside space in time to enjoy the warmer weather.

Luckily, there's no need to spend a fortune — many of 2018's hottest garden trends can be tapped into on a relatively modest budget.

The gallery above is full of easy tips to make your garden hipster friendly, with tips on what and where to buy, while below B&Q have shared the top trends they've noticed in their stores this year.

1. BRING THE INDOORS OUT

Make your garden a sophisticated living space with durable interiors accessories such as outdoor rugs, weather-proof cushions, cosy hammocks and design-led seating solutions.

Standout styles include coastal colourways, fringed finishes and geometric patterns.

2. ROCKING CHAIRS

Rocking chairs are perfect for lazy afternoons, curled up with a good book or having a quick snooze.

When used outside they add a touch of the American South's front-porch lifestyle to a London garden — bourbon-swilling grandfather not included.

3. THINK VERTICAL

No space? No problem. Garden storage and planting is literally going up this year with shelving, stacking and hanging hot on the agenda.

This trend is all about displaying your vibrant plants and everyday garden essentials, such as small hand tools, in the most space efficient way possible.

4. RAW AND RUSTIC

Create beautiful, bespoke outdoor seating or dining spaces with the help of gabion cages.

Strong and low-maintenance, these clever cages can be filled with bricks or rocks to make them even sturdier. Top with palettes or paving for a smooth finish, before adding your favourite soft furnishings to complete the look.

5. RATTAN RENAISSANCE

Palatial rattan sofas ooze Mediterranean elegance and look brilliant in big gardens, but compact, contemporary sets can be just as effective if you're pushed for space.

The natural material is rust resistant and very lightweight, making it easy to move and store.

6. GROW YOUR OWN

Growing your own herbs, fruit and vegetables in small spaces has never been easier thanks to modular, stackable growing systems that are as chic as they are practical.

Mix and match small and raised beds to create a personalised growing area that suits your space. From veg patch to plate, growing your own has never been more elegant.

Scroll through the gallery above for our pick of the best buys to overhaul your outside space...