We are creeping closer and closer to the official start of summer, so if you haven’t begun yet, it’s well and truly time to make a start on preparing your backyard for more activity. You might be surprised at how easy it is to get it looking inviting once you get yourself organised!
1. Clear the garden.
Organise a family working bee and spend a weekend out there clearing garden beds of old leaves and twigs, tip pruning shrubs and plants that will benefit, revitalising lawns, cleaning down paved areas with a high pressure hose, and generally clearing up. This is the time to create that new feature you’ve been considering – a new garden bed, a water feature, a new pergola or terrace.
2. Australian summers beg us to spend time outdoors, but we need protection from the sun too.
If you don’t have any covered space already, now is the time to think about how best to remedy the situation. A pergola (attached or freestanding), a gazebo, or covered patio can be a simple addition that results in a much more usable yard. When you’re planning, think of ways to integrate a new structure so it looks like it’s always been there – consider the style, roofing materials, colours and finishes.
3. ‘Instant’ potted colour is one of the easiest ways to give your garden a lift without having to spend a lot of money.
Most nurseries have a range of easy-grow plants that are further advanced than seedlings, so you can buy a selection and brighten up spots in your garden with a quick facelift that can be done in an afternoon.
4. Spruce up your outdoor living areas with new cushions and throws for furniture.
Winter calls for warmer colours and cosy textures that invite snuggling up with a hot drink and a book. To make the change to summer décor, think lighter fabrics in bright, crisp colours, and echo these in the garden as well.
5. Install a watering system to take the work out of keeping the garden in good condition.
You can buy kits and do it yourself, or get a contractor in to tailor it to your specific needs. Add a timer to the main tap and you can ensure that your garden gets the water it needs when it’s needed, without you having to always be there to do the job.
6. Consider outdoor fixtures for your kids.
If your children are at the stage when you’re encouraging them to get outside more, have a look at swing sets, cubby houses and sand pits. Conversely, if your kids have grown beyond that stage, it might be time to take those things out and replace them with other features to enhance the space.
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get your yard looking lovely and inviting for summer. A little bit of thought and some elbow grease can be enough to make a huge difference!