Why groan about the gardening? If you can incorporate the latest convenient and attractive features in your home, then you can easily do the same outside.

Low maintenance gardens are the dream of many of us, but you'll have to plan carefully to keep work to a minimum. And even in low maintenance gardens, regular tidying sessions are essential, although these won't be so time-consuming or energy-sapping as in a conventional garden.

And if you need help with the design and details, you could always try a design service such as Garden Makeover.