With a veranda in your garden, you can enjoy outdoor living all year round. Under a veranda, you are sheltered and dry, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors regardless of the weather. Although a veranda creates the perfect transition between indoors and outdoors, veranda owners sometimes wonder which plants are best suited for under a veranda. With the right plants, you can transform an empty veranda into a stylish outdoor space. Read here which plants offer both shelter and atmosphere and how you can turn your veranda into an inviting extension of your home.
Playing with light and shadow
Before deciding which plants you want under your veranda, it is important to check how much daylight falls under your veranda. The amount of light and sunshine determine which species will thrive best. Verandas facing north are mostly in shadow for the greater part of the day. Plants that love indirect sunlight will do best here. Is your veranda facing south? Then it might catch just a bit more sunlight than a north-facing veranda. Plants you place here will therefore often get slightly more hours of sun. Do you not know exactly which plants fit best under your veranda? Then keep an eye on how much sunlight shines under your veranda during the day.
Plants that tolerate low light well
Verandas generally block most direct sunlight. The difference between a north-facing or south-facing veranda is therefore also small. Under most verandas, half-shade or deep shade is created. Fortunately, there are plenty of plants that thrive precisely in the shade. Think of ferns or hostas. Are you looking for more colorful plants? Then choose the periwinkle or the barren strawberry.
More greenery under your veranda
If you are specifically looking for a plant that brings more greenery and at the same time creates atmosphere, the well-known ivy plant is a good choice. This classic even grows in shady spots, making it ideal for under your patio cover. Ivy can grow along posts or walls, turning your veranda into a true green eyecatcher.
Are you looking for a way to create a Mediterranean atmosphere under your porch? Then choose a beautiful olive tree and place it near the edge of the porch. This way, the olive tree can occasionally receive just a little more sunlight. In addition, boxwood plants also do well in the shade. These plants maintain their shape all year round, making them relatively low-maintenance. To ensure that all plants stand out as much as possible, it is best to combine tall and low plants.
Pots, containers and the right stands
Not only the plants, but also the way you place them, is very decisive for the final result. Under a veranda, it is often best to place plants in pots. Permanent planting in the ground can be difficult under a veranda. The advantage of pots and containers is that you can easily move them when the seasons change. To prevent root rot, it is best to choose pots with good drainage. This allows excess water to drain away properly. For creating a cozy atmosphere under your patio cover of the veranda, it is important that you use different heights. This also makes your garden look optically deeper.
Seasonal planting
In autumn and winter, your patio cover doesn't have to look dull. With the right seasonal plants, you can ensure a cozy atmosphere under your patio cover all year round. In spring, spring-blooming plants, such as primroses or daffodils, bring a fresh spring color. When summer arrives, geraniums or fuchsia are a popular choice. As soon as autumn sets in, many people choose heather plants or cyclamen, because they actually bloom well in cooler air. To winterize your garden, during this period you can best choose conifers in a pot or skimmias. These plants keep your garden vibrant and green in the winter.
Don't you have a veranda in your garden yet, but are you looking for a way to enjoy the outdoors and the greenery all year round? Then investing in a high-quality conservatory a smart choice. With the right plants we discussed above, you can turn your veranda into a true extension of your home. Using the right plants in the right periods ensures that you create an attractive spot all year round. Buy verandas here!
Garden trends 2026
Are you about to give your garden a complete makeover? Then this might be the perfect time to read up and gain inspiration from the new garden trends of 2026. There are plenty of garden designs that are constantly evolving. Innovative ideas are popping up everywhere. This ranges from smart technologies to sustainable solutions. There is a lot to discover.
In this blog, we explain more about the exciting developments that can transform your garden and outdoor space. Get inspired by the creative possibilities that the latest 2026 garden trends have to offer you. Discover for yourself how you can transform your garden into a personal oasis, with the help of Valk Veranda.
Sustainable elements in your garden
Sustainability is one of the central topics in the new garden trends for 2026. Environmentally conscious choices increasingly play a major role in the design of modern gardens. Garden owners, for example, choose to use materials that respect nature. Examples of these are recycled plastics or sustainably produced wood for garden furniture.
This trend extends to all aspects of your garden. Wooden gazebos and pergolas, made from sustainably produced wood, not only offer shelter, but also provide a warm and natural look. From the construction of a porch to the choice of new planters. Eco-friendly options predominate in this area. Besides materials, energy saving also plays a major role. Solar-powered LED lighting illuminates your garden in an atmospheric way. At the same time, you save on energy costs.
Smart irrigation systems dispense the right amount of water where needed. This prevents waste and keeps plants in optimal condition. This sustainable approach fits perfectly within the latest garden trends of 2026. You not only create a beautiful outdoor space, but also contribute to a greener future. Don't know which plants to choose? Then read our blog about which plants fit best under a veranda fit.
Various smart technologies in the garden
The latest garden trends of 2026 go hand in hand with smart technology. Automated irrigation systems ensure the perfect water balance in your garden. These systems adapt based on weather forecasts. As a result, your plants get the right amount of water in the soil. Intelligent garden tools such as robotic lawnmowers make maintenance easier.
Apps on your smartphone help monitor the health of your large garden. These smart solutions save a lot of time and energy. They also help create a more sustainable garden. The new garden trends of 2026 thus combine technology with environmental awareness. Smart shading systems and automated awnings can be integrated into wooden canopies, allowing you to create a comfortable outdoor space at any time. Do you have a long, narrow garden? Then you will find 5 dos and don'ts here to organize this optimally.
Biophilic design: an embrace of nature
We are also seeing a shift towards more natural garden designs. This trend, known as biophilic design, integrates natural elements into your garden. Think of flowing lines and organic shapes replacing sleek and geometric patterns. The use of natural materials such as wood and stone is central to this design. Wooden pergolas, decking, and garden furniture made from natural elements reinforce this concept and ensure that your garden gets a warm and natural appearance.
Native plants are also gaining popularity. They fit very well into local ecosystems and promote biodiversity in your garden. Instead of neatly mowed lawns, more and more garden owners are opting for lush, natural vegetation. This approach creates a harmonious atmosphere and invites you to relax in the local natural surroundings. Check out our selection of porches and discover which garden trends will make a difference in your garden!
Multifunctional outdoor spaces
In 2026, your garden will transform into an extension of your home. Flexible spaces for work, relaxation, and entertainment are therefore at the heart of the latest garden trends. Modular garden furniture allows you to adapt your garden to different needs.
Canopies, awning Lounge terraces provide comfortable outdoor spaces for any type of weather. Wooden canopies are a popular choice here. Not only do they offer protection from the elements, but they also provide a natural look that aligns well with the biophilic design trend we highlighted above. Outdoor kitchens are also becoming increasingly popular, encouraging cooking and dining in the open air. This multifunctional approach ensures optimal use of your garden.
Organic forms and natural aesthetics
The new garden trends for 2026 emphasize flowing lines and natural materials. Paths and borders are combined with soft, organic shapes that enhance the ‘flow’ of your garden. Natural textures in your garden decor, such as rough wood or weathered metal, add extra character to your outdoor space.
Colors inspired by nature dominate the palette. Earth tones, greens, and soft pastel colors bring a soothing atmosphere to your garden. This natural aesthetic creates a seamless transition between your garden and the surrounding nature.
The garden trends of 2026 offer various possibilities for transforming your garden. From the integration of smart technology to natural designs. Let yourself be inspired by these developments, but don't forget to maintain your personal style. With the latest garden trends of 2026 as your guide, you can turn your dream garden into reality.
Styling a small garden with style can quite be a challenge. Are you looking for inspiration where comfort and appearance come together? Then this page offers plenty of ideas and examples. Here you can read all about the latest trends and developments in the field of garden inspiration. Discover how you can make the most of a limited outdoor space, create a thoughtful layout, and establish a pleasant outdoor spot. Use these ideas to cleverly arrange your small garden.
Determine your layout with different zones
A good start is half the battle. Therefore, make sure you start by making a clear plan and divide the garden into zones. Determine a seating area, choose where planting should go, and where a patio cover possibly provide extra comfort. You can also optionally use a shim to beautifully finish your patio cover. To connect the spaces, a winding path or diagonally placed tile can be an excellent choice. This way, each zone can have a purpose, yet still feel like a cohesive whole: from a relaxation corner to a covered terrace and planting. Dividing a garden into spaces offers clarity, even when space is limited.
Focus on height and layers
When designing a small garden, it is smart to make use of height and layers in order to make optimal use of the space. For example, choose raised borders and multiple plant layers. This creates depth and consumes minimal floor space. Climbing plants against a wall, for example, provide a lot of space savings and greenery. Thus, a pergola or aluminum side wall patio cover climbers can also be a smart investment. With its shade, it creates a cozy and sheltered spot in the garden.
Opt for limited plant variety and color repetition
Soothing colors can help in landscaping a small garden if you want to save space and make optimal use of the areas. Too many colors or types of plants can namelijk cause a cluttered and restless effect. Therefore, choose larger groups of the same colors and plants to create a cohesive whole and make the garden look larger. Repetition of plants and shapes creates a certain rhythm and ensures a peaceful garden. With this, you can landscape your small garden both stylishly and effectively.
Optical illusions: mirrors and lighting
Mirrors are a clever trick both indoors and outdoors to create more space. If you are designing a small garden and working with mirrors, you enhance the light and create an illusion of space. In addition, it also adds a tremendous amount of atmosphere. The mirror can be decorated with plants and fairy lights for a playful effect. Lighting can also do a lot for your small garden. In the evening, lighting provides more depth and a cozy atmosphere. For example, choose lighting along paths, pendant lights or spotlights. This makes the garden look visually larger during the day and creates a cozy atmosphere in the evening. In addition, a porch with sliding glass walls creating a functional and practical space where you can both enjoy the outdoors and sit covered.
Multifunctional furniture and natural comfort
A garden table and chairs are actually indispensable in every garden. In a small garden, however, these pieces of furniture play a bigger role in the garden than in a large garden. Designing a small garden requires the use of these furniture pieces if you ask us!
Think for example of garden benches with storage space or foldable models. This combines space-saving with functionality: a perfect mix for small gardens. In addition, it is recommended to opt mainly for airy furniture. This prevents the garden from feeling cramped and allows you to easily move the garden furniture if necessary.
Practical additions that go unnoticed
Unfortunately, even a small garden needs garbage cans, water wells, and storage spaces. Although there is not always room for this in a small garden, you cannot avoid them. Therefore, smartly conceal the garbage cans using greenery and planting, for example. Have a small retaining wall built and hang climbing plants on it. Garbage cans can be stored unobtrusively behind this. Moreover, storage space in the garden does not have to be ugly. For instance, place a nice canopy attached to the garden shed, creating an inviting atmosphere. Optionally, add lights or heating elements and enjoy a covered and atmospheric garden!
A small garden does not have to be boring at all. However, designing a small garden requires a clear vision, a solid plan, and smart choices. With this garden inspiration, you can get started on creating an atmospheric, comfortable, and practical outdoor space. Buying a veranda for your small garden!
Are you looking for design ideas for a small garden with a canopy? Then you have come to the right place! By making clever use of the available space, you can transform a small garden into your ideal garden. Whether you want to relax, have drinks, eat, or enjoy nature here, everything is possible! The canopy is also custom-made for your small garden. This allows you to turn your garden into a cozy outdoor space.
How can you best arrange your small garden?
Om to design a small garden, you need some creativity and clever planning. To begin with, you can create a detailed plan, taking the space into account. Next, you look at the style you want to create in the garden and what the desired function is or will be. Cleverly placed furniture such as foldable chairs can help to make optimal use of the space and also make it look much larger to yourself and your guests.
How to make a patio canopy cozy?
Would you like to make your canopy cozy? There are various possibilities. To begin with lights and/or warm lighting. These can really bring the space to life, but of course you will need other additions as well. For example, a lounge sofa with soft cushions, plants, or candles that provide an extra warm atmosphere. Finally, you can play with colors and textures that suit you. This allows you to create a cozy atmosphere in which you can enjoy the garden.
The benefits of a patio cover in a small backyard
A canopy in your garden does not necessarily mean you are making the space even smaller. In fact, you make even more optimal use of the space you have. Consider the following points that give you a lot in return for the space you have to give up for a canopy in a small garden:
A patio cover provides extra shelter from the rain. This allows you to enjoy your garden even in bad weather without having to go back inside drenched! If you expand the patio cover with sun shading and/or sliding walls, you are also protected against the sun and wind. With these additions, you can enjoy the outdoors throughout the entire year!
A patio cover protects you and your furniture from the elements, keeping it looking good for longer. Naturally, you do not want your lounge set to get rained on every week because it is not sheltered. With a patio cover, you can enjoy your dry chair or sofa even after it has rained.
A patio cover gives you the opportunity to create an outdoor space or room for various functions. For example, a lounge area, outdoor office, or dining area is no longer impossible thanks to a patio cover in your small garden. View our range of verandas!
Useful tips for designing a small garden with a canopy
With a design for a small garden with a canopy, you can plan in advance what fits where in order to arrange the garden as a whole effectively. After all, your small garden may require some practical solutions.
Keep it simple: when your garden is overflowing with stuff, it automatically looks smaller. Therefore, try to create a simple layout. Furniture in the same color or made of the same type of material, for example. You can also use plant pots in the same color or large tiles that open up the space. It is good to keep the layout as simple as possible to retain the most space.
Even though you might have a small garden, there are practical solutions for making multifunctional use of your space. Examples include stackable chairs, a bench with built-in storage, or a folding table. It is important to make use of the part of the space you can do the least with, the vertical sides! You can utilize this by using nice plants there. For instance, an ivy plant takes up almost no horizontal space and can still grow large (or long).
Do keep in mind the height of your veranda. It is only allowed to reach a certain height without requiring a permit. Read more about this here how high a veranda is allowed to beYou must also consult with the neighbors and the municipality to find out what the rules are regarding building on or next to the property boundary.
Canopy ideas for small gardens
There are a number of (unique) garden ideas for a small garden with canopy. Here you can get the most out of your outdoor space. We have a number of practical and inspiring ideas to convert your small garden into a multi-functional outdoor space.
- Green discharge: Hedges or bamboo screens are ideal for adding privacy to your small garden with a patio cover. These are natural dividers that create a cozy feel in your garden.
- Extra light and warmth: by hanging string lights or placing garden torches along the edges of your garden. Adding a patio heater can make your outdoor space even cozier during the winter months for yourself and potential guests.
- Addition of water features: A fountain or mini-pond can bring a soothing atmosphere to your garden. Moreover, the sound of flowing water also attracts birds and other animals, bringing your garden to life, as it were.
Do you have a large garden and would you like some tips for designing this large garden? Then read our blog about how you need to landscape a large garden.