It’s never too late to get your garden summer-ready especially if you have a plan! Let us help you prepare your outdoor space so you can relax and enjoy your summer.
Lawn care
Your lawn is front and centre so it’s important to tackle it with care and consideration. The first cut of the season should be around mid-March and remember to raise the cutting deck to its highest setting. After that aim to keep the grass at between ½ – 1 inch high throughout the summer. In autumn the maximum height for grass cutting is 1 ½ inches.
Scarifying and aerating the lawn will also help the grass access more water and nutrients and keep it looking healthy. If you think you’ll need to water your grass over the summer make sure to plan ahead and store rainwater during the winter and spring.
Weed removal
Now is the time to get ahead of the garden and tackle all the weeds that have suddenly sprouted. How you remove them depends on whether they are annual or perennial weeds. Annual weeds such as bittercress have fibrous roots and will not survive if you sever them with a hoe. However, perennial weeds such as dandelion need to be pulled up by the root as they will regrow if you simply cut the stems.
Avoid using weedkiller as it doesn’t just kill weeds but will harm insects that are beneficial to your garden. Use a hoe, a weeding knife or for paths and driveways a weed burner. If you don’t have a weed burner a mixture of salt, vinegar, and washing-up liquid is an effective homemade weedkiller for the gaps in hard surfaces.
Install a new deck
You’ll want somewhere comfortable to enjoy the summer sun and the beautiful views of your garden so why not install a timber deck? Spring is the best time to do this before the weather gets too warm and makes working outside uncomfortable. You’ll also have your deck ready and waiting for those lazy summer days.
Timber decking costs will vary according to the size, style and timber quality that you use. Don’t forget to budget for things like steps for a raised deck and balustrades for safety. You may also want to install some outdoor lighting and sockets for evening entertaining in the garden.
Renovate garden furniture
With a stunning new timber deck you don’t want your garden furniture letting the side down so now is the time to dig it out and refresh it. If it’s been stored in the shed or garage give it a good dusting with a hand brush. Most materials such as plastic, rattan and metal can be cleaned with a solution of mild detergent and warm water. However, if you have wrought iron furniture you should use wax or other specialist products for cleaning.
Wooden furniture can be wiped down with soapy water but avoid getting it too wet. You may want to revitalise your wooden furniture by sanding it down and repainting or staining it. Add some new cushions and you have a whole new look for your garden.
Get painting
Your garden furniture is not the only thing that can be spruced up in time for summer. Take a look around your garden and consider what could use a fresh coat of paint to add some colour or just to freshen up the space. Perhaps your fence is looking a little unloved or your shed would benefit from a new wood treatment.
Not only will your wooden garden features look better but you will be protecting them from the elements and preserving them beyond the summer months.
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