Backyard makeover — from humdrum to backyard fun: Part 1 – by Diane Morey Sitton

It’s summer and backyards beckon. But it’s not just patios, porches and poolsides that promise summer fun. Whether small or spacious, sunny or shady, almost any backyard can be quickly transformed into an appealing getaway without breaking the budget.

In sunny gardens start the makeover by creating shade. Pop-up canopies and gazebos create instant garden rooms. Furnish them with chairs, tables, outdoor rugs and portable fans. Shade sails, too, create shady retreats. Stretch them between trees, walls or posts (see e-gardens, Vol. 21, Issue 28). In small areas generate shade using garden umbrellas. Unfurl them over tables for dining al fresco; for cozy conversation, position them between two chairs.

Exploit shady backyards by creating mini patios. Keep the project simple by using stepping stones or reclaimed bricks for the floor. Furnish the retreat with a café table, glider or chaise lounge. Utilize the shade further by suspending a hammock between two trees or from a hammock stand. Put a large shade tree to work by dangling a cocoon chair from a lower branch. For kids, hang a tire swing. (They’ll enjoy painting it!)

As your plans take shape, think about color. Brighten chairs, swings and chaise lounges with colorful pillows and cushions. Display flags and banners. Create a color theme with pots and planter boxes. Coordinate the theme with garden art. Green and white suggests cool tranquility. Red, orange and yellow energize settings and give gardens an air of festivity. Blue hues are serene. Purple can be moody, mystical and even mysterious.

Once you’ve added shade-producing cover, invigorating color and places to lounge as you watch the clouds float by, it’s time to think about accessories. Deter pests with citronella candles, bug zapper lights and bug traps. Cool down outdoor spaces with fans. Load a cooler or tabletop fridge with ice, water and cold drinks. Fill a basket with sunscreen and extra sunglasses.

It’s summer, so step outside and pick your spot— in a hammock, under a shade sail, or on a mini patio.

Your backyard getaway awaits!