Ideas for Large Backyards With Small Budgets

July 3, 2021 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing gardening tips on ideas for large backyards.  Having a larger garden can be excellent. Not only will you be able to have a larger outdoor space to fully enjoy, you’ll have a chance to add animals, spend time with family, grow crops, and be more self-sufficient with your outdoor space. You can have fun with a large garden, though maintaining it may seem like the hardest thing that you could possibly do! 

A large garden gives you space to have a barbecue area, a patio, even a play area for your children.  You can even hire someone with AKRS Equipment to help keep it running smoothly if you have extensive acreage which is farmland.

 

 

  • ideas for large backyards

 

 

When you have a large backyard, you have lots of ways to use your space and and increase the value of your home. Maintaining a large backyard so that it stays looking good and healthy is important, and here’s how you can do it.

 

Ideas for Large Backyards: 

 

  • Use the right tools –  The larger your garden is, the more tools you’ll need to maintain it. You may need to look at things like tractors and large trailers.  You will need them to help you to clear some of the fields. The right equipment is a must.  For example, a riding mower will be a necessity too.  And, a wagon to haul compost and garden soil to various areas on your property should be added to your list.   
  • Establish a Routine – Your garden will constantly need upkeep.  You will need to mow the lawn, tend to plants and flowers, and clean up any mess at all times.  You will need to be able to maintain the interior of your home as well.  As a result, you won’t be able to get every single thing done in one day.  So, make sure that you get into a routine of keeping up with all of the clearing and keeping the place healthy. 

 

 

ideas for large backyards

 

 

  • Feature the Wild and Native Plants – If you have wildflowers or native bushes and plants growing on your property, make a beautiful garden where you can feature them. Keep large shrubs and trees trimmed and the area tidy.  They can become conversation pieces. 
  • Add Path Ways – A large garden is much easier to maintain when you add paving and paths to the space. It add way to stroll the property and admire the flowers and plants in the gardens and borders.  It also makes watering much easier.  
  • Weatherproof Benches and Seating – There will be some areas of the garden that require you to weatherproof it. For example, wooden benches, tables and chairs need to be protected from the weather.  

 

A large garden is going to take some time to install.  Call for assistance if you get too far behind in maintaining your property.  Solicit family, friends and other gardeners to help install and maintain your property if needed.  

Filed Under: Flower Gardens, Outdoor Living Tagged With: , , ,

Tips for Improving Curb Appeal

December 10, 2020 by 2 Comments

Today, I’m sharing gardening tips on improving curb appeal.  On many occasions, we think about our garden’s appearance from a very nature-centered point of view.  Improving your curbside appeal will also add value to your home. It would help if you strived to keep the entire area clean, including your garage areas. You may want to look at pressure washing to help. 

Furthermore, one of he most important things when creating a garden is to do a thorough overview of the area.  So, what does doing an overview mean? Well, it means to not only focus on part of your garden, but try to foresee the completed result.  If you are a landscaper, that’s a bonus.  However for those of who are not, we must learn to consider the functionality and appearance of the elements that we have.  Check out these tips.

 

improving curb appeal 1

 

 

Improving Curb Appeal:

 

Play with lighting

One way to improve curb appeal is to implement lighting.  Improving lighting, especially at night can improve your landscape’s appearance!  Good lighting will significantly improve your garden’s appearance after sunset.  And, lighting can be factored into safety factors around your home.  For example, adding motion detectors or a dusk to dawn lamp at your entrance can improve your home’s curbside appeal.  

 

Organize the space

Another thing that is not taken into consideration in the garden is organization and the optimization of space.  People who have little space think they have to fill everything with plants to make the most of it.  Stop, that is a bad idea.  Like everything else, your garden needs to breath.  Even if the garden is large, we must also use other types of elements to add variety to its design.

For example, when the garden is small we have make it look larger than what it is.  To accomplish this, place  trees at the back of the your garden.  Next, place shrubs and smaller plants moving towards the front of the garden.  Medium size shrubs/plants will go in the medium and smaller plants/flowers will go in front of the medium sized plants.

 

 

improve curb appeal

 

 


Also, if you have a lack of space, container gardening is the way to go.  However, you should not use the soil in your garden to fill these same pots.  It will become too compact and rigid for the pots, leading to the death of the plants.  Look for potting soil, which is designed specifically for pots. Having a beautiful garden doesn’t have to be difficult.  With a few tricks and tips you can be well on the way to creating a heavenly space.

So, if you have a large garden take advantage of all the possibilities that space gives you.  Some things cannot be done in a small garden, but you can give a large one greater sophistication.

 

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Attractive Home Curbside Appeal

September 1, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing gardening tips on home curbside appeal.  We judge a book by its cover.  And, we’re all guilty of doing the same with houses. When the outside looks attractive, we want to see what the home’s interior holds.   I know that I do.  

Spring and fall are the perfect times to work on your home’s curbside appeal. Unsure where to start? We’ve got our great tips on how to enhance your house’s exterior. 

 

home curbside appeal

 

 

 

Tips on Home Curbside Appeal:

 

A New Roof 

New roofing for your home is essential for practical and cosmetic reasons.  An old roof can be prone to leaking.  Furthermore,  it can acquire a build-up of mold, become faded by the sun, and age your house. 

A new one will ensure you’re protected from the weather and will give your home a fresh look. There are many choices of colors and styles of roofing these days; the options are endless. For more info on what’s available, you can take a look online and compare designs and pricing.

 

 

 

Update the Door 

If you’re apprehensive on going bold with color choices for large parts of your exterior, bring a pop of color to the front door. Going for a deep red, bright yellow, or even purple will bring your home to life. 

If you have children, get them involved and let them pick out a color. You can repaint your front door in one day.  So, when you want something new grab a can of paint. There’s an app available that lets you virtually see how the colors look before you start the project. 

 

 

home curbside appeal

 

Plant Flowers 

The start of spring is the perfect time to plant fresh, vibrant flowers at the front of your home. By summer, everything will be blossomed and give your curb appeal a radiant look. 

Flowers don’t just belong in the garden by your front door. Grow some by your mailbox, in window boxes, and around the driveway. The more you have, the more inviting your home will be. 

 

Maintain the Lawn 

There’s nothing like seeing a bright green front lawn. Take the time to reseed your lawn.  Hot weather can damage lawns and fall is the perfect time to reseed it for a fresh lawn in the summer.  The winter snow and spring rain showers will do their magic, and help you achieve a lush lawn in the summer. 

We hope our tips on home curbside appeal have been helpful.  Implement a few and bring your home to life.  

In a few weeks, you’ll have a lawn with volume and color. Make sure you continue to water your grass as the summer months roll in. You should also get the lawnmower out every two weeks to promote new growth and keep it tamed. 

The Bottom Line

Attractive curb appeal is your home’s way of welcoming you and your guests inside. Every year, there’s always maintenance we can do to enhance the outside of our homes. 

You can start with getting a new roof, giving your front door a pop of color, plant flowers all around, and maintain a green lawn.

 

I hope my home curbside appeal tips have been beneficial.  Implement a few, and become the envy of your neighborhood.

Filed Under: Outdoor Living Tagged With: , ,

How to Use Your Outdoor Living Space

May 10, 2020 by Leave a Comment

Today, I’m sharing gardening tips on how to use your outdoor living space.  We’re living through some pretty unprecedented times. The rapid spread of coronavirus has seen the establishment of a worldwide pandemic.  Instead of getting on with our day to day lives, those who aren’t essential workers are expected to stay home.  Except for when we are shopping for essentials like food and medication. 

Unfortunately, this can be difficult for many to face. But, I have a few suggestions on easing the boredom or loneliness that you may be experiencing.  The summer months are approaching and the weather is improving. If you’re lucky enough to garden, you can benefit from getting some fresh air and enjoying the sunshine on your face.  So, it’s essential that you get started on working on your garden now so you can enjoy your summer

 

outdoor living space

 

 

Here are a few tips on how to use your outdoor living space:

 

Take Care of the Basics 


There are basics that you’ll need to complete in almost any yard.  First, start with cutting the grass.  If left unmaintained, grass can quickly become unruly and overgrown. Not only is this an aesthetic problem, but it can prevent you from spending time out in your yard.  Furthermore, an unmaintained yard can pose potential safety issues.  For example, debris, brush or small rocks can made its way into your yard, and be concealed by tall grass. 

If your grass is particularly long, you might want to use a strimmer to get it down to a reasonable height.  Afterward, you can mow over it. The trimmer will be useful for cutting grass along the edge of your yard too!  Next, you should focus on finding any weeds that have established themselves. Weeds are notoriously difficult to completely get rid of.  But, by using proper technique and being committed to the cause, you can eventually get there. Make sure to pull any weeds up from the root and to dispose of them properly.  

 

Trim Bushes and Prune Trees

Cutting back any overgrown bushes and trees should be on your list of things to do.  It’s a simple task, but one that you need to carry out safely.  Use shears to cut back hedges. Go slowly and be precise. Just hacking away at the bush can cause it to become too small or poorly trimmed. Taking your time will help you to get a neater finish.

For trees, look into the type of tree you need to trim.  Some trees should be pruned at different times of the year.  If it’s a tall tree or one with particularly large or heavy branches, consider a professional. 

 

Make a Wish List 

There are so many things you can do to make your backyard look like something out of a landscape design magazine. Take a look at some of the additions Archadeck Outdoor Living can offer you! Decks, porches, patios, sunrooms, outdoor kitchens and more. Not only can these additions make your home more functional, but they can make it more appealing. You will want to spend time in yard, and entertain family and friends. Start making notes on what interests you. You could even request a quote so you can have a ball park figure on how much you need to save.

 

outdoor living space

 

 

Install a Vegetable Garden

So, we can get all of the food we need from our local grocery store or supermarket. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t still grow your own food.  Growing a vegetable garden is a great way to use your outdoor space and can introduce you to a hugely rewarding hobby. Digging up a vegetable bed is pretty simple.  Or,  you could look into outdoor planters if you don’t have the space for a vegetable bed.  Google the vegetables that will thrive in your local area.  Also, learn what times of year you should try planting them and how you should take care of them. 

 

Install a Flower Bed 

Additionally, you may want to dig up some flowerbeds and grow some flowers too. So why not give this a try? It’s a great hobby, and you’ll feel great when they flourish and bloom!  

 

Finally, it’s a good time to start making the most of your yard.  So, start planning how to use your outdoor living space.  Your garden will be blooming by the time summer arrives!

Filed Under: Outdoor Living Tagged With: ,

Creating a Child Safe Garden for Your Family

April 16, 2018 by Leave a Comment

 

creating a child safe garden

 

Summertime is near, and that’s the perfect time of year for quality family time and making some memories.  Quality time is good regardless of whether you’re planning to go away on vacation or just hanging out enjoying in your own back yard. The lighter evenings and warmer temperatures are perfect for play activities with your little ones.  Naturally, you want to keep them safe from any harm. Toddlers are into everything by nature.  However, we want them to have fun exploring, not end up in tears. So if you’re experiencing summer with an active toddler, here are a few things to check when creating a child safe garden:

Pad Out Patio Sets

Outdoor furniture is designed to be durable and robust.  But, not always with a child safety as a primary concern. Some garden furniture can be made of metal.  As a result, check any rusted edges that you will need to remove. Additionally,  if you have a wooden set make sure that it doesn’t require sanding and sealing again.  Sanding and sealing will prevent little fingers from getting splinters.  Check out sofa sets for patios that featured padded cushioning, soft edges and no protruding bars to help keep your children safe.

Cover Metal Fixtures

Uncovered metal fixtures such as taps, hoses, etc. can heat to sizzling temperatures.  So, make sure you keep them covered to stop little hands from getting burnt.  Hoses can moved to shady corners.  If there are taps sticking out from the wall, consider padding it temporarily.  A wad of cotton and some rubber bands should do the trick. And if you do have any external power outlets, invest in plastic socket covers.  They will stop young children from poking stuff into the outlet.

 

backyard garden ideas

Check the Planting Scheme

Sometimes those pretty flowers and shrubs you admired before children can turn into a hazard.  Especially, when you have toddlers who like to put interesting things in their mouth!  Some plants can be poisonous when ingested by small children or animals.  So, you should have a pre-emptive sweep of the garden and get rid of any offenders.

It’s worth knowing that kids don’t necessarily have to eat the leaves or flowers on shrubs.  Just touching them and then putting their fingers in their mouths can cause illness.  Plants to look out for are Giant Hogweed, often found along riverbanks and paths can  cause skin blistering and even blindness.  Also, Bluebells, Chili Peppers, Lily-of-the-Valley, Foxgloves which contain Digitoxins, Poinsettia, Hyacinths, Iris and Ivy can be harmful.  Always make sure your child washes their hands thoroughly after a playing in the garden.

 

backyard garden ideas

 

Secure Play Structures

Many of us like to add play equipment for kids to enjoy in our gardens.  This includes climbing frames, slides, swings and sandpits.  These items need careful attention to ensure they are safe.  Furthermore, make sure the structure is placed on completely level ground.  This will ensure that the equipment is stable and won’t fall over. Bumpy grass or natural inclines in the ground can cause equipment to shift over time.  So, it’s best to place them on a sold surface if possible.  Unfortunately, there may be changes to the ground over time.  So, check the equipment periodically as part of your normal garden maintenance.

When shopping for playsets, make sure that you purchase equipment that has accredited child safety standards.  As a result, you know they are constructed with quality material and with safety as a primary concern.  Most importantly, only let your child play on equipment that is appropriate for their age.  If you need to pad things temporarily, cheap foam pool noodles can be cut to size.  Simply, slit in the pool noodle in the middle to grip onto edges and bars.

Reconsider Gravel

Although gravel is attractive and low-maintenance, it can also hurt toddlers who are prone to falling over.  If you do have large patches of gravel, consider replacing it with turf.  Grass provides a much softer landing for little knees and hands.  Plus its kinder for the environment.  If you don’t want the hassle of mowing, look into artificial grass substitutes.  Artificial grass has come a long way.  Now it looks more lifelike than ever.  Also, it stops family pets from digging up real grass.

 

backyard water pond ideas

 

Be Careful of Water Features

It goes without saying that even small water features are a hazard.  Children can drown in a couple of inches of water.  Furthermore, if you live near an open water course install a strong fence with a childproof lock to keep them away from the water unsupervised.  It’s not just drowning risks you need to consider either, standing or stagnant water can be a magnet for bacteria and insects.  Bacteria and insects can be harmful to children.

If you have a family pool, its better to have a locked, fenced area around it.  Make sure children know that they should never enter without an adult. Even small inflatable paddling pools require kids to be supervised.  You should empty them completely after each use.

Store Equipment and Tools Safely

Gardens can contain tools, equipment, and chemicals that can be  dangerous if not stored securely.  Make sure you’re able to store everything securely.  When you’re barbecuing, never let children play unattended when the grill is hot.  Make sure the kids are supervised while you’re cooking.  If you use a gas grill, propane tanks must be locked away in an area where kids can’t reach them.  Make sure you store utensils, coals, and lighter fluid.  Also, lawn mowers, electrical yard tools, and sharp implements must also be stored securely as well.

 

Filed Under: Nature-Gardening, Outdoor Living Tagged With: , ,

Container Gardening Tips for Flowers

August 9, 2016 by 4 Comments

Container gardening tips for flowers are the topic for the day.  Container gardens can bring decks, patios, front porches and sidewalks to life. Today, I’m going to share a few container gardening tips and gardening tricks for flower container gardens. So, you can add containers to benches, tree stumps or any other areas that needs a bright spot.

Next, the best way to save money is to start plants from seed.  You can start them inside under a grow light and transplant them into containers in the spring.  However, not everyone has the time or desire to take that route. So, if time isn’t on your side the clearance rack on your local Walmart or Lowes is a good place to start.  I enjoy seeking out plants on clearance that are on the brink of death and nursing them back to health.  Seeing them flourish in a container or in your yard is so rewarding.  

 

 

 

flower container gardens

 

Again, I find the best bargains at Lowes, Home Depot and Wal-M art clearance stands.  Creeping Jenny, a Spike and French Marigolds fill the container below.  I companion plant marigolds with my tomatoes and peppers in my vegetable garden every year too.  I purchased a few extra pots of marigolds on clearance and decided to incorporate them into the containers on my deck.  Spikes, Sweet Potato Vines, and Creeping Jenny  are my most expensive plants during the summer.  Unfortunately, I have never seen them on sale or clearance.

 

 

Container Gardening Tips for Beginners:  

 

So, Creeping Jenny is an invasive plant.  But, it is so beautiful in containers.  Actually, planting it in containers is the only way to control it. When I planted the Creeping Jenny initially, I wasn’t expecting it to return year after year.  This is the third year that it has returned in the pot below. The contrasting color (light green) of the Creeping Jenny, and it’s ability to hang over the pot’s edge makes the pot come to life. 

This pot contains:

  • 1 Spike
  • Yellow Marigolds
  • Purple Petunias
  • Creeping Jenny 

 

 

flower container gardening tips

 

 

 

I carried on the French Marigold and Spike theme on the other side of the deck.  Since I planted the Creeping Jenny in one container garden on the deck, I planted a Sweet Potato Vine in my other container.  Planting the Sweet Potato Vine on the side of the container garden allows it to cascade down to the floor of the deck.  I’ll be planting this trailing vine again next year.  Sweet Potato Vines can be pricey, so I’m going to try growing my own next season.

 

This pot contains:

  • 1 spike
  • French Marigolds
  • 1 Sweet Potato Vine

 

 

 

 

 

flower container gardening tips

 

 

 

Additionally, Moss Roses fill this pot along with a Spike, which give the plant some height.  This plant is easy to grow, and can take hot, sunny spaces.  I love that it produces pops of color all summer.  If you’re lucky, this plant will return for several years.  It produces beautiful flowers in a variety of colors.  White, pink, yellow, and red flowers brighten this spot.

 

This pot contains:  

  • 1 Spike
  • Moss Roses

 

 

 

flower container garden tips

 

 

 

Finally, my boxes that I use on my deck railing always filled with petunias.  I change colors periodically, but purple, red and white are the usual colors.  Occasionally, I add in pink. I add Vinca to create a trailing effect.  I usually add 3 Vinca to my boxes; however, this year I only added 1 and used more petunias.  It really cut the cost of the expenses for the 4 boxes.

This box contains:

1 Vinca
Variety of Petunias 

 

flower container gardening tips

 

 

 

Get creative and mix what you love in your containers and watching them come to life.  You can use simple designs or get elaborate all depending on your space.  Also, head out to your local flea market, yard sale or clearance isle and grab a few pots this gardening season.  

Last, container gardening is a great way to bring in color and liven up your outdoor living space.   So, try a few pots on your deck or patio this summer.

You may also like these Container Garden Ideas.

 

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Flower Gardens, Nature-Gardening Tagged With: , , ,

4 Ideas To Implement In Your Garden

July 24, 2016 by Leave a Comment

Every mother wants a place of her own to relax and enjoy 5 minutes of peace and quiet.  And this is absolutely normal! While being a mother is a fantastic experience, everyone needs a few moments to recharge the batteries and meditate. Even specialists recommend it!

Sadly, most of the time, the house is too small and your relaxation spot may be difficult to implement considering that kids are all over the place. But don’t despair; you won’t have to wait for your kids to move out of the house to relax. You can think out of the box and transform the garden into an outdoor oasis where everyone can relax. With just a few clever gardening tips, you can transform your old backyard into a new purpose.  Check out tips below:


garden, relax

 

Build a pergola

Regardless of how small or big your backyard, a pergola will look gorgeous! Even more, there are so many designs out there that you can create a unique design in just a few steps.

Of course, if you’re the DIY kind of family, you can unite your forces and make your pergola out of salvaged materials. This way you’ll improve your garden’s design, get a bit of exercise and family time, and you won’t have to make a big investment. To me, this sounds like a fantastic idea!

The best part about a pergola is that you can cover it with vines, flowers and all sorts of decorative things. Thus you’ll get to have a cool-looking shadow in those torrid summer days, and you’ll enjoy that lemonade even more.

Invest in high-quality furniture

Your patio furniture doesn’t have to look like it’s been through several wars! If you want to relax, you have to extend the modern, stylish design from the inside, outside. Invest in furniture that will be pleasing to both the eyes and the skin. Get some large, luxurious chairs that can extend and some big, fluffy pillows. Also, you shouldn’t forget about the table – a cute, antique piece will make the morning coffee a lot more pleasant.

To make sure everything looks as elegant and inviting as possible, play with colors and textures. Let your creative inner self free and combine the furniture with the pergola covered in vegetation. The result will be stunning!

Make a special place for the kids

As a mother you can’t be selfish; especially when you have to share your oasis with the kids. So, you can divide the garden into areas, and you can have a relaxation area and a fun and games area. The fun and games area could have a sand pit, a tree house, a small garden where kids can learn about plants and more. The best part is that the children will get to play outside, and you can supervise them from your relaxation area.

A place for friends and family

Another garden tips, if you don’t want to divide the garden, you can make it all into one great place. Add a barbeque or a fire pit, some comfy chairs, and a table and you’ve got a fantastic place where to invite family and friends. While adults relax around the fire, kids can play in the garden.

Finally, as you can see there are plenty of ways to transform your garden without investing a fortune. And, if none of the above interest you, consider starting a vegetable garden. Kids will be thrilled to learn more about growing plants, and you might get to cut off some food costs during summer. It’s a win-win situation.  We hope you enjoyed our garden tips and you will implement a few. 

About the Guest Contributor: Katrina, is a proud mom of two gorgeous girls who loves writing about home improvement and décor. Katrina contributes regularly on various blogs and online publications like Mother2Motherblog.com.

 

Filed Under: Flower Gardens, Nature-Gardening, Outdoor Living Tagged With: , ,