July 8, 2015

7 Fast Fixes for Your Yard This Summer

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Who doesn’t want a nice yard to enjoy during the summertime?  But perhaps (like many of us!) you are not having a “lazy” summer this year, but are actually more busy and pressed for time than usual. Maybe you just don’t have the time to give your yard the care and attention that you would like to.

The good news is, there are some fast fixes you can do to perk things up a little.  So the next time people want to come over, or your kids want to play outside, you will be ready for everyone to enjoy the outside of your home!

Consider these ideas:

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1.  Plant Annuals in Pots.  If your yard is lacking in summer color, there is a quick, easy, and relatively inexpensive remedy.  Plant annuals in pots, and place them strategically throughout your yard.  If you don’t have a lot of planters, and don’t want to go out and buy them, check out this list of DIY planters from homedit.

2.  Add Lighting.  Nothing could be simpler or easier than installing solar lighting in your yard.  Literally all you need to do is to stick the individual lights into the ground wherever you want them.  Just be sure that you are putting them in an area that gets sun during the day.  

Another easy lighting tip is to utilize strands of holiday lights for evening ambient lighting, particular around a deck or seating area. Or, to create a fun “camping” atmosphere for family game night, light up an oil lamp or two, and place them on a picnic table for a game of cards or Monopoly.

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3.  Turn off the Water.  This is a tip for those of you who use sprinklers to water your lawn and garden beds.  You will want to reduce the amount of watering that you do in the days leading up to a barbecue or outdoor party, so that the ground won’t be soggy and mushy underfoot for your guests.

4.  Utilize Lawn Art and/or other garden features such as benches, a fountain, a birdbath, or a unique statue of some sort.  These are things you can just place in your yard to enjoy, and they will instantly make your yard look better and more cared for.  An especially good time to purchase these items is towards the end of the summer, when they will likely be marked down significantly.   

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5. Create an Instant Tomato and Herb Garden.  It’s not too late to have your own vegetable garden this year.  You can still purchase potted tomato plants, place them in a sunny area, and watch them grow.  Also, herbs can be planted right now as well, in window boxes or in pots on your deck.  

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6.  Hang a Hammock or Tree Swing.  It’s always nice to add components of relaxation and/or fun to your yard.  Most hammocks and tree swings can be hung quickly and easily, and will pay off in hours of enjoyment throughout the summer season.

7.  Add Rockery.  Rocks will give a clean, finished look to pathways and beds.  Order pea gravel or river rock through a gravel supply company.  They will delivery it right to your driveway, and then you only have to shovel and spread the rocks to improve garden paths, faux river beds, and areas that need a more polished look.

by See Jane Drill, Copyright 2015, All Rights Reserved