Get a Fresh Start in 2021 with a New & Improved Backyard!

So 2020 has come to an end and boy what a year it has been! As we scramble to make those New Year’s resolutions, take a moment to think about the positives of this year. 

From spending more time with family to trying new hobbies if anything, this year forced us to stop and smell the roses.

For many, that meant being outside in nature, where tranquility reigns supreme. You might’ve discovered the soothing effects of a crackling fire pit, or finally got around to installing a pebble tile backsplash in your bathroom. 

Or, perhaps 2020 had you staring at a screen way too much, and you want to change that in the new year.

Why not turn your backyard into a passion project? You can’t go wrong with getting your hands dirty. 

And when your outdoor design extravaganza is complete? That feeling of accomplishment is hard to beat!

Here’s how you can improve your backyard for a bold new start to 2021!

Transform bare areas

Coming out of winter, your grass might be in need of some serious TLC. For starters, you might be cringing at the bare areas pock-marking your yard.

Luckily, you don’t need an expensive fix. Do some sleuthing to figure out what is causing these dead patches. The most common culprits are lack of sun due to a shady tree, or high foot traffic. 

Turn these bare areas into a creative DIY. If you have a bare spot that is at least 10 feet away from trees and other objects, consider a fire pit with handsome Adirondack chairs placed around it.

If you have bare spots due to high foot traffic, use garden pebbles to make stepping stones or a winding garden pathway.

Replenish your flower beds

Make sure your flower beds are getting the best nutrition for optimal growth. 

Choose high-quality organic mulches and soils that don’t rely on mystery chemicals to treat plants.

As well, ditch the toxic spray to keep pests at bay. Consider natural alternatives, such as lavender, citronella, or basil for mosquitoes.

Certain plant varieties, when planted together, actually offer symbiotic benefits that naturally ward off common pests. Isn’t nature so cool?

Pro Tip: Got big ol’ exposed tree roots tarnishing your landscape masterpiece? Garden stones and mulch are both easy (and aesthetic) ways to cover them up!

Revamp your outdoor living area

Patio furniture looking a little glum? Get ready to entertain outdoors in 2021 with a fresh design that is tasteful and totally YOU.

Best of all, you don’t have to splurge on expensive renovations. A few decorative tweaks here and there can make a huge difference. 

Whether you have a patio, deck, or balcony, this list of ideas works anywhere!

• String up lights over a wooden deck, balcony wall, or in a tree to set the mood. Lanterns hung from tree branches are pretty darn romantic, too.
• Place Fire glass in a fish tank, bordering a walkway, or on top of a fire pit for a bit of whimsical sparkle.
• Build an outdoor shower and install pebble tile flooring for a trendy, natural look.
• Plant native flowers to attract hummingbirds, bees, and other wildlife.
• Build your own birdhouse or birdbath to attract songbirds to your yard.
• Transform your patio into an outdoor kitchen for dinner parties under the stars.
• For small spaces, keep it cozy with a Moroccan rug, low coffee table, and floor poufs (the BOHO dream)