The sun is shining, summer is upon us and with any luck, there will be a fair few warm days to come in the months ahead. If you’re eager to make the most of blue skies and rising temperatures, here are some tips to help you get your garden summer-ready.
Cleaning, tidying and weeding
The autumn and winter months can take their toll and many of us find that our gardens are crying out for a little TLC by the time warmer climes arrive. The first step to take when getting your garden ready for summer is to clean and tidy and get rid of any debris and weeds. Start by arming yourself with a bin bag and remove leaves, dirt and any accessories or ornaments that haven’t survived the winter from pathways, patios and decks. Don your gloves and get rid of weeds from flower beds and pots and planters and spray gravel patches, paths and paving to prevent weeds from growing back.
Lawn care, planting and mowing
The next step is to assess the condition of your lawn. If the grass is lush and vibrant, this is a positive sign. If there are worn patches or you have areas where the grass is brown or yellow, consider returfing or plant more seeds in parts where growth is slow. Keep your grass watered and mow on a dry day. Aim to water your lawn and any plants and flowers you are growing at the end of the day when it’s cooler and the sun has faded. Add colour and vibrancy with planters and containers packed with flowers and plants, hang baskets or buckets or add plants to flower beds.
Getting your entertaining area ready
This summer, many of us are looking forward to reuniting with friends and family and enjoying al fresco drinks and barbeques. If your garden furniture, throws and rugs have been holed up in the shed all winter, or you’ve tried to protect them with covers, now is the time to get them out and prepare for outdoor gatherings. Grab a bowl of soapy water and a cloth to wipe down tables, chairs and benches, look for products to clean mould off outdoor cushions and put throws and blankets in the wash. When everything is clean and fresh, you can set about designing your entertaining area. From seating to soft furnishings, you can channel all kinds of themes and use accessories to create a stunning, inviting spot. For a laid-back vibe, opt for a hammock, deck chairs, hanging egg chairs, swing benches and floor cushions, rugs and bean bags finished with string lights and blankets. For a chic, modern look, you could add a rattan sofa set, oversized lanterns, a fire pit, a parasol and wall-mounted up-lighters.
Adding shade and shelter
We all know that the British weather can be unpredictable. Even in the summer, you can experience four seasons in a day. To make the most of your garden and ensure that the weather doesn’t spoil your plans, it’s an excellent idea to add shade and shelter. You can use awnings, parasols and sails, gazebos and retractable roofs to cater to all conditions.
Summer is upon us and what better time to get out into the garden and make the most of the sunshine? Take these tips on board to get your garden ready.
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