No matter how much you love winter, spring, or fall, it seems like everyone lives for summer. The warm weather and the longer days provide the perfect excuse to throw a barbeque or just relax on the porch with a cold one. But nobody wants to spend that much time in a yard that looks shabby and scraggly. Here are some ideas for sprucing up your backyard in time for summer.
Paint the Fence
Is there anything as picturesque as a white picket fence? If it's been a few years since you've even looked at your fence and the paint is peeling or looks dull - or maybe you just want a change - then it's time to revitalize those slats with a fresh coat. White looks crisp and clean but bright blues or yellows can mimic the vibrancy of the season. You could even pick two or three colors to alternate for a bolder look!
Tip: Keep the dog inside the house until you're done painting.
Paint the Furniture
Relaxing on the patio after a long day or even longer week is one of the great treats of summer. With the amount of action outdoor furniture gets over the season it's important to keep it from looking worn and uninviting. Repainting the deck chairs and picnic table is a simple way to make the entire backyard look brand new. Since summer is such a bright and outdoorsy season, aim for bold colors like cherry red or turquoise, or earthy colours like fern green or sand. Alternatively, leave the wood as is and buy some colorful seat cushions for extra comfort.
Tip: If you have the time, sand down the furniture before you get started: the smoother and more even the surface, the easier it is to paint and longer it will last.
Grow Your Garden
Planting flowers along the fence, beside the edge of a pathway, or in pots around the patio can add the finishing touch to your property. Whether you want perennials or annuals, make sure you know what conditions each plant needs to grow.
Tip: With year after year of record temperatures, pick plants that don't need too much water and can handle the heat: bluebeard shrubs, butter daisies, and lavender are all good options.
Add Some Accents
Sometimes it's the extras that really make a space feel like home. Umbrellas and awnings offer the perfect opportunity to add some pattern to the mix; painting birdhouses can be a fun family activity for any lazy afternoon; and mosquito-repellent candles are an ideal way to shed some light when the festivities last into the night.
Tip: Hummingbird feeders need to be cleaned every 3-4 days to prevent mold and build-up.
Repaint the Exterior of Your Home
Summer is the perfect time for this. (Don't worry, I know some people who can do it for you.)
