5 Things to Consider When Buying Antique Garden Ornaments

Antique garden ornaments are highly sought-after garden features that can add a unique design element to your outdoor space, creating eye-catching displays that are both original and special to you and your particular tastes. Each ornament can have a big impact on the landscape of your garden and there are a variety of different options and styles to choose from.

But where do you start? Here are some helpful tips when it comes to buying and looking after antique garden ornaments.

Which antique garden ornament should I choose?

There is no right or wrong answer when selecting antique garden ornaments. Personal preference plays a huge role — after all, the ornament will be a central feature in your garden. Some people gravitate towards something grand and classical like a beautifully weathered stone lion statue or a Roman bust, which bring an element of theatre to your space. For those who prefer something a little more understated, stoneware planters or Alpine troughs can be a great addition and a unique alternative for growing plant life.

If you’re looking for something with an artistic flair, consider pieces like antique stone urns, which are eye-catching decorative features that really make an impression. Tudor Rose square planters, meanwhile, work beautifully in both traditional and modern garden settings.

For a statement piece, a stone sundial can impart your garden with a sense of classical design and tradition, while a pedestal birdbath is a wonderful way of attracting wildlife and creating a beautiful centrepiece.

Whichever type of antique garden ornament you choose, think about how it will harmonise with the rest of your garden’s design and what sort of atmosphere you’d like to create.

Where should I place antique garden ornaments?

Realistically, you can put your garden ornaments anywhere you like in your garden or home. They are designed to be outside so are generally resilient. 

It’s important, though, to ensure they are on stable ground that doesn’t flood or get boggy. If you want to preserve them as much as possible but still enjoy them, try positioning your ornaments in a sheltered area so they are less likely to be damaged or worn by the weather. 

With the unpredictable weather in the UK, you’ll need to take precautions during winter to protect your ornaments. Depending on the ornament, they should be raised off the ground rather than kept on bare soil or grass to stop them from freezing to the ground. Permanent cement footings are a good idea, as this will stop them from freezing and ensure they are stable. 

If your ornament is a container - such as an urn, birdbath or fountain - you should empty it of water and soil before the first frost. It should then be covered to prevent the build-up of snow and ice, which can cause damage. 

Should I clean or try to restore antique garden ornaments?

Being subjected to the elements can mean that garden ornaments end up with moss and lichen growing on them. This certainly adds to their character and natural weathered charm, but if you do wish to clean your antique garden ornament, it’s a fairly easy process. Start by brushing away any moss, lichen or dirt with a brush, being careful not to brush too hard, especially if your ornament is made of a soft stone. 

You can then use environmentally-friendly dish soap and water to clean the ornament, using either a soft cloth or a brush. Wash the soap residue away carefully with your garden hose on a low setting. You should avoid using a power washer on antique garden ornaments as this can cause damage. Finish by simply allowing the ornament to air dry.

How can we help?

Transforming your garden with antique garden ornaments brings timeless charm and natural beauty to your outdoor space. If you’re ready to elevate your garden, why browse through our collection of discounted stoneware and antique oil jars:

end of summer sale now live!