Gardening is a much-loved habit by many Brits opting to make the move abroad. Although learning how to tend to your new garden may be trying, it is possible.
One of the reasons many of us plan to move to France, of course, is for the better climate it offers. With much more reliable sunshine in many parts, summer days are often spent almost entirely outdoors, so outside space – whether it is simply a courtyard or a large garden, perhaps with a spot for growing vegetables with room for a pool – does become very important. Often in France, your outside space becomes a real extension of your home, so make the most of it!
The joy of gardening in France
Many people find themselves with a lot more outside space when moving to France than they were used to in the UK. If you have green fingers, you will be in your element here as land is cheaper and it is perfectly possible to have a pretty garden with space for a vegetable plot. Down in the south of France, everything grows pretty quickly – including grass – so it’s important to be aware of the maintenance your garden is going to need. Paving is a popular option and there is plenty of choice of stones to choose from in various garden centres, including some lovely soft Mediterranean colours.
Gardening in France
There are plenty of excellent large garden centres in France and many will offer advice on planting shrubs, fruit trees and the like. Again if you are in the south, it is perfectly possible to grow fruit and vegetables; the climate is perfect for them. Many French gardens have old orchards which are already well established. It is hard to resist buying an orange or lemon tree – something we simply can’t do in the UK!
French gardeners still plant using the phases of the moon through a Gardener’s Almanac which you can buy in any decent garden centre.
It is easy and fun to plant a variety of herbs, either in pots or bedded, and herb plants are often for sale at open air markets.
Gardening has become more and more popular as a pastime amongst the French and it is relatively easy to find a landscape gardener or general maintenance firm if you require extra help with your space. However, it is often more satisfying to plan your own layout, decide what you are going to plant and where with the help of your local garden centre and take time to get your outside space looking exactly as you want it.
Maintaining your swimming pool
Swimming pools are more common in France than in the UK, but do require some maintenance, particularly in the summer months. The Raffarin Law outlines the usage of safety and security systems for all in-ground pools, and at least one of the approved safety devices is obligatory:
- Fence or enclosure
- Reinforced pool cover
- Alarm
- Pool shelter
Checking the pool a few times a week for debris is essential and hoovering the base and sides in the morning when the weather is still cool is a good idea in the summer. It is also important to ensure the skimmer is not blocked with leaves. There are plenty of cleaning products available in pool shops, including blocks to insert in the skimmer, chemicals for general pool cleaning and products to make the water super clean.
Swimming pools are more common in France than in the UK, but do require some maintenance.
The condition of the water should be checked weekly using test kits available from local shops to ensure the pH and chlorine levels are correct.
Remember to keep swimmers away for several hours after adding any chemicals!
The pump should also be regularly checked making sure that the water comes right to the top of it through the inspection area at the top. When you have your pool installed, it should come with all the equipment necessary for cleaning and maintenance and your installer will show you the basics once it is all installed and in working order.
Covering the pool in the winter months is essential to prevent debris falling into it whilst it is not in use.
Pool maintenance is not a hard task, but it must be carried out regularly for happy swimming.
–
If you would like further advice on the selling process in France, download your free France Guide.
Why not split the cost and double the fun of owning a holiday home in France by buying with family or friends? Read our guide to Buying Abroad with Family.
Are you looking for a property in France? Search on Green-Acres.
Want to sell your property on Green-Acres? Advertise on Green-Acres.
