We are approaching the Bank Holiday season, and hopefully that will bring with it some pleasant spring weather to draw us outdoors. When the sun is shining and everyone is in a good mood, it’s the perfect time to have a barbeque. If it’s going to be at your place, that means sprucing up the garden as well as getting the burgers and buns in.
Here are some quick tips to ensure that your garden is as presentable as your grills!
Mow the lawn
There is nothing like a quick trim to transform the appearance of your garden, so if you have a lawn that needs the first cut of the year, now is the time to get going. Set the blades high because it’s too early in the season to completely scalp the lawn.
You want it short enough so that it’s easy and safe for guests to walk on, but not so short that the newly emerging grass is trampled lifeless and the earth is left prone to a late frost.
Trim and clear any winter deadwood
If your borders, shrubs or hedges are looking a bit straggly, neaten them up with some secateurs and pull up any obvious weeds or dead plants. Beware of the difference between a plant that has died and one that has not fully woken up from winter.
Clean hardstanding areas
Give paths and patios a quick brush to clear away debris, and if you have time, swill them off with a bucket of hot soapy water. Some people like to use a pressure washer to clean stonework, but beware as this can be too forceful for some types of natural stone and concrete tiles, leading to damaged surfaces and cracks.
Brighten up the BBQ area
Make the area where your guests will be socialising feel more welcoming with some colourful containers and hanging baskets. However, make sure delicate flowers are not too close to the grilling area, as they will wilt in the heat. Get rid of anything unsightly for the time being, such as smelly wheelie bins.
It’s also time to bring the garden furniture out of storage and wash away any winter cobwebs. Some extra cushions, throws and rugs can help to make the chairs more comfortable and be used as extra seating if you have extra guests.
If you want to enjoy a few cold drinks along with your burgers, you could fill a wheelbarrow with ice to keep them nice and chilled as you grill.
Some big umbrellas always come in handy to provide shelter from the sun, or let’s face it, the rain which is possibly the more likely scenario! In fact, a pop up gazebo is a very handy item to have at any British outdoor gathering so it might be worth considering investing in one.
Finally, if you are planning to socialise into the evening, some ambient lighting such as lanterns, tea lights or festoon lighting will help to set the mood.
If you are looking for patios in Lancashire, please get in touch with us today.
