During these past several months most of us have been spending more time than ever at home. Why not use that as an opportunity to more fully enjoy and cultivate your outdoor space? Investing in your yard and gardens can have many benefits. Not only can it offer you an oasis that is incredibly therapeutic and enjoyable but a beautifully landscaped home with curb appeal does wonders for your resale value!
There are so many options, ranging from big-picture ideas to smaller projects that can add a little something special and help you fall in love with your outdoors again.
Bring the Indoors Out
Being able to entertain outdoors is crucial this summer now more than ever before. Having comfortable seating and warm ambient lighting will encourage you to spend more time outdoors relaxing. A table ready for an intimate dinner party that can take advantage of these endless summer evenings is a must.
Cozy up with a good book in your hammock or catch up with a friend over a glass of wine in your rocking chairs. Don’t forget the lighting! Twinkle lights or string lights create a wonderful atmosphere and can easily be hung on decks, porches and pergolas.
2. Plant a Kitchen Garden
Now more than ever; eating healthy, clean food is so important. Knowing you grew it yourself from seed to harvest is about as clean as it gets. Gardening can be overwhelming at first but a great place to start is a small herb garden or a couple of tomato plants. Even potted plants can work well if your space is limited. Popping outside to pick a handful of fresh basil or a ripe tomato to add to your dinner is a truly wonderful experience.
3. Add a Water Feature
Never underestimate the soothing effect of running water. If your budget has some wiggle room a gorgeous fountain or a natural pond would be a great choice. Another unique option that is more budget friendly is a rain chain. These take the place of a downspout as a more decorative way to divert water away from the roof, they have been used in Japan for hundreds of years and can be found in a wide range of styles and materials. A bubbling birdbath is another simple water feature that is enjoyable for both you and your feathered friends.
4. Grow Your Own Flowers
Growing your own flowers to enjoy in your yard as well as to cut and bring indoors for custom arrangements can be easy and so rewarding. Perennials are great options that you only have to plant once and will bring you blooms for years to come. Some of the most reliable and colorful flowering perennials are Hydrangeas, Lilacs, Hosta’s, Black Eyed Susan’s, Iris’s and Lilies. Once planted, many of these really only need sun, water and maybe some occasional pruning. A little online research or your favorite local nursery can help you figure out what will work best with the light and space you have available.
Lastly, don’t forget about your inner child. An unexpected swing tucked under a favorite shady tree might just become your new favorite place! Put a little effort in now to fully take advantage of your outdoor spaces and the beautiful weather our special little state has to offer this time of year.
To view homes, online or in person, with spectacular outdoor living please contact me at lisa.pagano@mottandchace.com or 401.447.9505