By Matt De Reno
After months of snow, freezing temperatures, and sledding down hills with the kids, it’s finally springtime! The sun is shining, the birds are singing and with just one look in your backyard, you know that it's time to break out your rakes and shovels to whip your landscaping into shape. And if you're like most of us – a busy professional or parent looking for simple ideas – we've got you covered. Here are 10 easy tips to get your outdoor space ready for another season. So put on some comfy clothes, grab a pair of gloves, and let's get started!
Prune away overgrown shrubs and trees to create a more attractive landscape
Oh, the joys of pruning! There's nothing quite like grabbing those clippers, channeling your inner Edward Scissorhands, and reshaping the wild, overgrown chaos that once was your landscape. Show those shrubs and trees who's boss by snipping away any excess foliage and branches, revealing their true stunning form. Witness the transformation as your outdoor space morphs from a tangled jungle into a serene oasis, showcasing your home as the true neighborhood gem it was always meant to be. So, toss on your gardening gloves, fire up some high-energy tunes, and let's prune away for the ultimate backyard makeover!
Plant seasonal flowers to add some color to your garden
Looking to jazz up your garden with a splash of vibrant hues? Planting seasonal flowers is the perfect way to engage your inner green thumb and create a beautiful explosion of color in your garden space! As each season brings its own palette, you can embark on a delightful journey where transformative grace unfolds before your eyes in harmony with nature's cycles. Whether it's delicate spring blossoms, bright summer wildflowers, warm autumnal shades, or festive winter evergreens, there's a stunning variety awaiting you! Plus, it's a fantastic way to coax pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, into your botanical sanctuary, creating an ecosystem that's not only beautiful but also alive with activity. So, don your favorite gardening gloves, and let the horticultural adventures begin!
Install outdoor lighting for those summer nights
Imagine the warm summer nights, where laughter and good vibes fill the air. You're enjoying a refreshing beverage with your loved ones, as the sun starts to set, casting a colorful glow in the sky. But, as darkness begins to envelop your fun, the party doesn't have to end! Illuminate your outdoor oasis with exciting and ambient lighting that transforms your backyard into an enchanting haven for those long summer nights. From string lights that weave a magical web to solar-powered lanterns that breathe life into your garden, there's an endless array of options to create a charming atmosphere. In the embrace of such vibrant lighting, watch heartfelt conversations deepen and friendships truly sparkle. So, go ahead and let the light shine, ensuring that your merry moments are well-lit and everlasting.
Refresh mulch and soil for a healthy lawn
There's nothing that shouts "Yay, spring!" louder than giving your lawn a fresh new look by refreshing the mulch and soil! Who doesn't love the satisfying feeling of sinking their feet into a lush and healthy lawn as the sun shines down? Well, all that magical green goodness begins with the marriage of rich soil and protective mulch, the power couple that provides a nourishing and cozy home for your grass to grow. So, let's all take a moment and show some appreciation by mixing and spreading the right combo of soil and mulch, allowing our lawns to strut their luscious greenness with pride. Trust us, your bare feet will thank you!
Add an outdoor seating area for you and your guests
Picture this: a warm, sunny day, the smell of freshly cut grass, and laughter filling the air as you and your guests lounge in your brand-new outdoor seating area. It's time to transform your backyard into the ultimate fun and inviting space, perfect for hosting family and friends or simply enjoying a peaceful cup of coffee. The key is to find comfortable, stylish furniture that reflects your personality, such as playful swings or a cozy hammock for that perfect summer siesta. And don't forget to add some enchanting string lights or soft outdoor rugs to create a magical ambiance for those long, memorable nights under the stars. So go ahead – embrace your inner landscaping connoisseur and start planning the outdoor seating area you've always dreamt of!
Incorporate water features such as fountains or ponds
Imagine walking into your dream garden, the tranquil sound of water rushing from a majestic fountain, or the serene sight of a pond filled with gentle ripples sparking life into your surroundings. Incorporating water features like fountains or ponds adds an element of fun and magic to any outdoor space. These elements not only create a fantastic focal point for your garden but also offer a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Picture yourself having a delightful picnic next to a pond filled with koi fish playfully swimming around, or letting your imagination run wild while marveling at the dancing water jets of your unique fountain. By inviting such water features into your outdoor space, you can create a magical and fun environment to entertain friends and family and indulge in the enchanting atmosphere of your very own private oasis.
A well-designed outdoor living space creates a relaxing space to enjoy and entertain that all can appreciate. Whether you employ some of these ideas or are the do-it-yourself type, sprucing up your outdoor area is sure to enhance the look of your landscape. Through creative planting, thoughtful design elements, and careful maintenance, you can create an outdoor retreat that will be your own private paradise. If disaster strikes and your DIY project doesn’t quite turn out as planned or you simply don’t have the time to tackle the job, then hiring a professional landscape designer is another option. They can help you bring your landscape vision to life. So, go ahead, make a plan, and transform that outdoors into something special!
That being said if you don’t have the motivation or just want to take a shortcut - okay we get it – too lazy to do any of that? Check out these folks across the North Hills who provide customized backyard designs with minimal effort required from you!
Landscaper and Garden Service Providers Across The North Hills of Pittsburgh
Editor's Note: Check our Landscaping Guide daily as we are constantly adding new listings to this part of our site.
Matt De Reno is the publisher of Across North Hills and a writer based in the North Hills of Pittsburgh.
