Tuesday, February 24, 2009

7 Ways to Turn Your Backyard into a Suburban Getaway

By Glenn Guthrie

Lawn Care - Having a healthy lawn is fundamental to a beautiful back-yard retreat. It is the cornerstone that brings all of the other amenities in your yard together. Starting early and planning is key to growing a thick plush carpet of green grass. Preparing the soil ahead of time is important and so is the choice of what type of grass you are putting in. Setting up a maintenance program will help keep your lawn looking fresh and leafy green for seasons to come.

Landscaping - This is more than throwing in some potted plants and mulching around them. Landscaping is like turning a canvas (your backyard) into a beautiful painting. You start off with a plan for the spaces to be used, to what types of plants and colors will complement your backyard. Through planning you can experiment with many different color schemes until you find the perfect match.

Gardens - A more personal addition to your backyard than probably any other you might do. Gardens can be very therapeutic and an extension of you, the gardener. From what type of garden you choose to the type of plant, flower, herb, fruit or vegetable you choose to plant and grow. Not to be forgotten is the time and care that goes into growing a healthy garden that you can be proud of and show off to your friends.

Fencing - Having a fence put around your yard a sensible thing to do. It can give you the privacy you desire to relax in your yard and the security of letting your children and pets spend more time outside playing and enjoying the fresh air. It can really make you feel relaxed and secluded from everything and just let you get away.

Lighting - You can enjoy your time outside more than just during the day. Night can be a great opportunity to spend time in your backyard getaway. Lit walkways and pool areas will lend themselves to safety. Spotlights are a great way to highlight your plants or any other area you choose.

Decks and Patios - Building or installing a deck or patio area gives you a space that can be used in a multitude of ways. There are probably more uses for either one than there are for types of material, size, design and style to choose from. And, that's saying a lot.

Retractable Awnings and Patio Covers - Either of these will help add comfort and enjoyment to your backyard experience in any outdoor element; rain, sun or snow. Being able to relax and take it all in while at the same time being offered protection from the sky above is priceless. When looking at different types of awnings and covers you should take into consideration what its main purpose will be. Also, look at patterns and color usage and how they will tie in with your outdoor color scheme. - 15266

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