THE COOL CLUB
If you’re on a quest to get your garden ready for summer, you’re not alone. If there’s one thing the last 18 months have shown us, it’s that gardens are a lifesaver. In fact, being outside can improve our mood, reduce feelings of stress and help us feel more relaxed.
Your garden is an extension of the inside of your home, and just as you might give your walls a lick of paint, getting the garden ready for summer can provide a seamless transition between inside and out. If you’re stuck for ideas on how to get your garden ready for summer, don’t panic. We’re here to help. Check out our top tips below, and if you have any more, don’t be afraid to share them!
Cut the grass and dig up weeds on the lawn
Hands up, how many of you are currently looking outside at overgrown grass? We get it, cutting the grass isn’t the most exciting of jobs, but it’s the number one way to make your garden look more tidy. Just as summer encourages your blooms to sprout, it also makes weeds grow too. So, get on your gardening gloves and be prepared to dig up those pesky weeds. Your lawn will look luscious in no time!
Up cycle tatty outdoor furniture
With a national shortage of outdoor, garden furniture, that patio table and chairs you were going to replace might just have to last one more summer. Don’t fret though, there’s plenty you can do with some paint and powder! Try these paints for a cool, industrial look, or if you’re into vintage vibes, French Chic paint works a treat. Here are some simple steps to jazz up your old garden wares:
1. Before you begin, give the garden furniture a good rub, removing any flaking paint or grime.
2. If areas are particularly stubborn to clean, use a sanding block with wet and dry abrasive paper. Always wear a protective dust mask.
3. Give it a sponge over with some bleach to kill any algae or mould.
4. Scrub the furniture with hot water and detergent to remove any traces of dust.
5. Prepare the garden furniture in line with the paint you are using, whether that’s metal paint or chalk paint.
6. Paint and wait to enjoy your transformation!
Use a jet washer
A through wash can work wonders – and your patio is no different! Buy, borrow or hire a jet washer and you’ll be surprised at the positive difference it can make. If you have particularly stubborn stains, you might need a couple of attempts. If all else fails and you can’t restore your garden patio to its former glory, consider using masonry paint to brighten things up. You’ll be stunned by the before and after.
Plant some blooms
Dahlias are a must-have plant for summer, as are Petunias, Lobelia and Sweet Peas. If you’re looking to create a boho meadow in your garden, think about planting seeds around April/May ready for the height of summer.
Accessorise and create summer vibes!
Getting your garden ready for summer isn’t all about horticulture and cleaning. One of the most exciting bits of sprucing up your outside space is picking accessories and lighting. Outdoor fairy lights and patio lights can keep the space alive well into the night, while barbecues and fire pits can turn your garden into a sensational social space. B&M and Home Bargains have some great outdoor garden buys.
Make sure you’re stocked up on drinks and ice
There’s nothing quite like an impromptu barbecue off the back of a random hot day. But there’s nothing worse than arriving at the supermarket only to find everyone else had the same idea and took the last packet of baps and last bag of Party Ice. Keep a supply of outdoor essentials in the event you can get out and enjoy your new garden.
Set up a music station
Music is a great way to set the tone. Whether you’re having some quiet time alone in the sun and want to listen to chillout, or having a party with friends, incorporating music into your garden revamp is key.
Create a covered area
There’s nothing quite like the great British weather – and what starts off as a sunny day can soon turn into a rainy flop. Having an outdoor cover area means you can still sit and socialise outside when it’s warm and wet. You can also use this area to create your own garden bar, ready for when you have outdoor gatherings. Your garden should now be summer-ready!
