Dressing Up Your Yard

Backyard parties are one of the best parts of summertime — hot dogs on the grill, kids playing in the grass and friends gathered around the fire pit. Unless, of course, your backyard is looking a little worse for the wear and none of these features actually exist. If backyard barbecues are a pipe dream for you, make that dream into a reality and give yourself the gift of a lovely backyard.

Patio

Your patio has likely suffered from neglect for a while now, so pressure wash all dirt and grime off of it. Get into the cracks and corners to really make it look finished; details are important! Once it’s clean and dry, it’s time to make your patio stand out.

• Nothing is more relaxing than an evening sitting by the fire. Cinder blocks and bricks are cheap at the hardware store and can make an elegant DIY fire pit. If you’d rather have one that serves as functional fine art, look into a custom metal design.
• A seating area creates an inviting, warm space. Instead of pulling out all the random camping chairs from the garage, invest in a nice set of durable patio furniture.

Yard

Hot summers can take a toll on your poor yard. Thick, green grass is not always easy to achieve and it certainly can’t be done overnight. However, giving the right attention and love to your lawn will make an enormous difference in due time.

• After you’ve mowed and raked away loose leaves and debris, sprinkle grass seed and fertilizer all over your grass. If there are bare patches, focus on those. Water your lawn every night; before you know it you will have the most beautiful lawn on the block!
• Don’t forget about the flowerbeds! Weed them thoroughly and plant bright flowers to replace the dead ones. Spread fresh bark or dirt over the top as a finishing touch.

Yardwork is a labor of love. Don’t underestimate how much pride that a freshly manicured, beautiful yard can give. You will be proud to show it off!