Gardeners urged to take pictures of their gardens this Bank Holiday weekend

Gardeners are being urged to take a photo of their gardens before heading on holiday and amp up their security to prevent thieves from swiping their valuable garden furniture and other items.

Garden lighting specialist, LightingLegends.com, warns that gardens can be a gold mine for thieves, with August being the prime month for garden thefts.

Pricey items such as patio furniture and ornaments can be easy pickings for garden thieves who can easily steal your precious items without even stepping inside your property.

Garden sheds that aren't properly locked up can also be an easy mark and are often packed with valuable power tools.

Now, the experts have shared seven tips that can significantly boost property safety and they won't break the bank.

1. Check fencing

You need a sturdy fence to stop thieves from breaking in, opt for a tall, solid fence made of strong and durable materials like wood, metal, or vinyl. Adding a lattice or spikes at the top of the fence can further deter thieves from climbing. 

2. Use thorny plants

Planting thorny or spiky plants like roses and hawthorn along the perimeter of your garden creates a natural barrier. These plants are difficult and painful to get through, discouraging potential intruders. Dense, bushy plants can also serve as effective barriers, such as holly and pyracantha (firethorn). 

3. Secure gates

It’s vital to use high-quality locks on any external gates. Padlocks, combination locks, or keyed locks can enhance security, and ensure the lock is resistant to cutting and tampering.

4. Garden lights

Set up motion-activated security lights around your garden, particularly near entrances such as gates, doors, and walkways. Utilise other types of robust, waterproof garden lights to ensure your outdoor area is well-lit, especially around susceptible spots like garages and sheds.

If you're planning on using them throughout the year, it's crucial to opt for IP65-rated waterproof lights. This enhances overall visibility and minimises potential hiding places for intruders.

5. Motion-activated sprinklers

Motion sprinklers can startle and deter intruders. They also have the added benefit of watering your garden. Install them in areas where intruders are likely to enter, such as near gates or fences.

6. Tool storage

Keep your garden tools and equipment in a locked shed. Tools can be used by intruders to break into your home, so securing them reduces this risk.

7. Mark your property

Utilise kits to label valuable items such as garden furniture, tools, and ornaments with a unique identifier. This could be a UV pen, etching tool, or microdot technology, you should then maintain a record of marked items, including photographs and descriptions which is why it's recommended residents take photos of their furniture before heading on holiday.

Commenting on this strategy, Jon Saeed, managing director of Lighting Legends said: "Garden security doesn’t have to break the bank. Simple measures like upgrading locks, installing motion-activated lights, and using natural barriers such as thorny plants can significantly enhance your property’s safety. 

"Effective security is about making your home a less attractive target through practical, affordable means, and these cost-effective strategies not only deter intruders but also provide peace of mind."