For example life is hectic enough without the chore of having to manually move the hosepipe and sprinkler around the garden at regular intervals. How much water do we waste by inadvertently watering pathways or perhaps the next door neighbour's border, or even watering mid - morning where much of it evaporates in the heat of the day?

For those of us who are looking for a somewhat easier time a Micro Irrigation system is worth considering. Not only is the system flexible enough to encompass the entire garden, it can be extended at any time to grow with the garden.

Microjets and mini-sprinklers can be concealed in the shrub border and drippers can deliver water directly into pots and hanging baskets. Add a water retaining gel prior to planting up and this will help to retain moisture in those containers which are prone to drying out more quickly.

Micro Irrigation can also be fed into the greenhouse by running tubing down the sides of the structure where drippers, misters or even both can be utilised for maximum efficiency with minimum effort. Purchase an automatic water timer and you won't even have to turn on the tap!

Now that you have eliminated an all consuming task from your daily schedule there is a lot more time to relax, enjoy and have fun in your garden.

If you don't relish the idea of a pond but would love to have the sound of water in your garden consider installing a pebble pond.

Create your own using pond liner or purchase a pre-formed pebble pond, where all that is required is to dig small hole to accommodate the 'basin' in which the pump sits. Fill the basin with water keeping it submerged at all times and connect to an electricity supply with a circuit breaker.

Pebble ponds are ideal for families with small children or where low maintenance is a priority and can turn an ordinary corner of the garden into a visually pleasant and relaxing area to enjoy.

However if you would like to indulge yourself further the ultimate in pampering has to come in the form of swirling, foaming Companion Spa which can accommodate up to 4 people.

A self-contained unit, the spa has suprisingly low running costs using 1kwh, which is the same as using a lamp. Easily stored during winter this is where water in the garden becomes synonomous with a luxurious life style!

Situate it on a patio or deck, bask in the warm glow of garden lighting and bathe under the stars in temperatures ranging from 27c - 40c.

Now this is what relaxation in the garden is all about!

If you prefer a body of water larger than that afforded by a spa, consider having your own swimming pool. Don't be misled into thinking that your garden would have to undergo massive earthworks and disruption. Above ground pools, constructed to exacting standards, only require a 1 foot depth to nestle in and can therefore be accommodated in any area of the garden.

The pool can become an integral part of the garden especially when raised decking envelopes it.

A number of strategically placed specimen plants such as Chusan Palms (Trachycarpus Fortunei, Yuccas and Phormiums will add a touch of the exotica.

Beautifully crafted Teak garden furniture and a warming chiminea nestled amongst the plants will help to create a garden that will be simply stunning and the envy of family and friends - that is if you can bear to share it with them!