Got Spring Fever? Take It Outside!
If you’re anything like us, you’ve been longingly looking out the window, waiting for the last of the snow to fade so you can get outside and enjoy the spring sunshine. Well friends, the time is almost here!
In this month’s blog, we’re going to talk about 5 ways that you can level up your yard a notch (or two, or three!). So clear out those winter cobwebs and let’s talk about the ways that you can take your yard from ‘eh’ to ‘WOW!’
Install Garden Lighting
Have you ever walked into someone’s backyard at night and it looks like something out of a fairy tale? Well, that dreamy ambiance has a lot to do with having the right amount of lighting.
Having special garden lighting fixtures can elevate your yard so that it looks good even when the sun goes down. Small changes, such as hanging fairy lights on your deck or having lamps near your fence line, will instantly make your yard stand out on even the darkest night.
Keep in mind that, just like with indoor lighting, certain outdoor fixtures work best in different locations. For example, placing small low-voltage lamps near the base of your trees and shrubs will highlight the colors and textures of your plants perfectly. Fixtures that have ambiance lighting can really add depth and warmth to the areas, like patios, where people tend to gather to socialize.
Consulting a landscaper or your local gardening shop can help you make an informed choice about what lighting choices will best suit you and your goals.
Build a Fence
They say that ‘fences build good neighbors’ – and while we’re not exactly sure how much truth there is to that, there’s no denying that a well-installed fence can really level up the aesthetic value of your yard.
Before you start undertaking this task, go in with a plan. Take time to consider what your goals are. Do you want a fence that will give you privacy from your neighbors? Is its purpose to keep the children from wandering too far or the dog from taking an unexpected trip around the block? Is there a certain theme that your yard has that a fence would add to?
Alongside that, it’s also important to take maintenance into consideration. For example, chain link fencing has less upkeep than a wooden picket fence. Ornamental fences may be made of less durable material and might have to be replaced more often.
A fence can be a great addition to any space – so take your time and choose something that you love before giving it the green light.
Invest in a Water Fountain
Something about the soft babbling flow of running water is just intrinsically very relaxing. Honestly, don’t you feel a little more Zen just thinking about it?
A fountain can be as big or small of a statement piece as you want it to be, and they come in a wide range of sizes, colors, and designs to fit a variety of needs. They can be a great subtle addition to your front or back yard or the epicenter that pulls your entire outdoor aesthetic together.
And, if you’re looking for that extra pop of uniqueness, there are several brands of fountains that are also solar powered instead of relying on traditional electric plug ins. We don’t know about you, but we love an investment that keeps on giving!
Plant Low Maintenance Greenery
Did someone say ‘gardening?’
If you’re looking for an easy way to bring beauty and structure into your yard, plants and shrubs are the definitely the way forward.
However, many people underestimate how much time it takes to tend to what they plant and can get overwhelmed by the hours of upkeep that they didn’t initially plan for. A garden can quickly end up looking like a plant cemetery if you’re not careful!
The trick is knowing that you don’t have to compromise. You can have a beautiful yard that isn’t a massive time commitment if you invest in the right kinds of plants.
For example, spirea, viburnum, and lilac bushes are great low maintenance shrubs that can stand up to temperamental Alberta weather. Do your research to find out what grows best in your climate and what can survive without you constantly having to tend to it.
Put In a Fire Pit
Is there anything better than sitting around a fire on a warm summer night with your friends? Or cozying up next to the soft glow with your significant other? How about roasting marshmallows or telling ghost stories with the kids?
Fire pits serve as a social gathering spot regardless of the season and that’s part of what makes them a fantastic addition to your yard.
They create a rustic and relaxed focal point for your backyard that can bring all the individual elements, from the furniture to the ornamental fixtures, together. They also provide natural light that can make your yard an ‘experience’ instead of just a ‘place’ – and maybe it’s just us, but there’s something about a fire pit that makes that glass of wine extra tasty!
Let Us Help While You Work!
With the right amount of time, commitment, and elbow grease, you can turn your backyard into the wonderland you’ve always wanted it to be. And if you need a little help tending to the indoors while you get working on the outdoors, we’ve got you covered!
Whether you want a one-time clean to help you jumpstart you into spring or would like to book on a regular basis, we’re here for you!
Remember – we love cleaning so you don’t have to!
~Your friend, Anna