San Diego is in full bloom, but we live and work in La Costa and spring fever is upon us all. Part of it might be that the La Costa real estate market is red hot and landscape fever is contagious —-and the other could be sheer enjoyment of working outdoors with sunshine and temperatures in the balmy 70s.
Here are a few tips to freshen and update both patio and yard:
- Clear weeds and dead plants and plump up garden soil with organic compost . Replant with native color. Also consider adding some vegetables and herbs in between plantings.
- Have a barbecue grill? Now is the time to clean the grates and scrub off winter grime.
- If you have a worn and faded patio umbrella, consider replacing it with a new and colorful one. It can really add a cheerful and inviting punch to both patio and yard.
- This is the time of year to carefully examine patio furniture. Can cushions be cleaned? If so, do it soon. If they are worn or faded beyond help, you might consider replacing them or using the old as patterns and re-creating them with new weatherproof fabric.
- A firepit or outodoor fireplace adds daytime charm and inviting evening warmth. Consider adding one if you don’t have a firepit now. There are even portable ones in local home improvement stores.
- Consider re-staining wood fences and decks if needed. This will add tremendously to your home’s outdoor appeal.
- Finally, add hanging and potted plants for colorful beauty and appeal. They can do much to make your patio and rear yard come to life.
What if your home is new or you are starting from scratch with landscaping? You will likely agree that your home and its exterior space should be an oasis of sorts. Our advice? Start small and consider adding a fountain or fire pit to your landscaping to make your yard more retreat-like. Perhaps a backyard swing or an outdoor kitchen is more to your liking. You can gather your dreams in online ideabooks on websites like Houzz or Zillow digs and plan out the next project for your home. Now’s the time to start!