Preparing for a Great Summer Landscape

While summer doesn’t technically begin until June 20^th, many consider Memorial Day the unofficial first day of summer. Summer in Pittsburgh means time spent outside enjoying your yard and the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking to host events or just want your home to look its best all summer long, and that includes giving attention to your yard and outdoor living spaces.

There are several small (and some more ambitious) tasks that can be done to ensure your yard is properly prepared for the warmer days of summer to come. With the proper maintenance and care, your lawn and outdoor space will remain happy and healthy for years to come! 

1. The foundation of an attractive home is a handsome lawn. A rich, thick lawn will often look its best during the summer- assuming it’s been well maintained. Some steps to accomplish that are aeration, fertilizing, hydrating, and tidiness. Aeration is a process which involves mixing up your soil to help your grass grow with better water access to the roots. Fertilizer will help your lawn grow thicker and more consistently. If water is an issue, consider installing a sprinkler system and devise a schedule that will get you lawn the hydration it needs. Regularly rake your lawn to keep it clear of debris which can block out sunlight or water and lead to bald spots.
2. Now is a great time to prune trees and shrubs. Remove unsightly plants entirely or relocate them to less prominent locations. Cutting away dead branches will keep your property looking healthy and alive, while also decreasing the risk of ending up with a branch across your car or roof.
3. Keep things clean! From siding to your porch and patio, a good power washer is needed to keep these surfaces looking their best. Windows and doors will need to be cleaned inside and out to maintain a good appearance, and your driveway may require more frequent attention to keep it looking it’s best. Some parts of your home, such as gutters, will need to be cleared and cleaned not only for aesthetics, but also to prevent damage to your home.
4. Remove unwanted flora and fauna. Keeping the unwanted weeds at bay may sometimes feel like a full-time job. Pull weeds and keep an eye open for unwanted guests in your garden or lawn. Flower beds and vegetable gardens can often attract the attention of local wildlife, and if necessary, there are steps you can take to prevent them from ruining your hard work. 
5. Spruce things up with a fresh coat of paint. Furniture, balconies, patio, and outdoor trim can all benefit from a fresh coat of paint or a new stain. Adding some accent color to your home can help make it stand out from others on the block, while also making it look modern and clean. These new finishes will also help protect surfaces from damage.
6. Upgrade your outdoor accessories. Pillows, rugs, and potted plants are not just for indoor spaces. There are a wide variety of outdoor decorations available to help make your outdoor space feel welcoming and relaxing. Consider how you’ll most likely use your space and focus on additions that will add function and style. The same goes for outdoor furniture. Available in different styles and materials, there are many options that will help you find outdoor furniture that fits your home’s style.
7. Outdoor lighting has the power to completely transform a space, making it the go-to spot for entertaining after dark. Add string lights, tiki torches, and lanterns to help enhance that homey charm, while also utilizing permanent fixtures to add necessary illumination to more important areas. Chose styles that compliment other aspects of your outdoor space.
8. Create a centerpiece. Fireplaces and chimney's are a great addition and can be had in practically any size to fit any backyard. These are great social centerpieces that you can enjoy even after summer is gone.
9. Don’t forget your fence. While serving double duty as a form of privacy and security, fences can also add some fresh new style to your yard. Break out the paint or check out the outdoor décor at the local shops and create a bold new look. Adding plants such as vines or other hanging baskets filled with colorful blooms will add a little natural beauty into the mix.

Summer will be here before you know it, so take some steps now to ensure sure your backyard is prepared for all the summer fun you’re planning to have!