We spend so many days waiting for the moment to clean our house again, only to find when that moment comes; we’re straightening up with no actual time to clean. If we are lucky to have the place looking immaculate on a regular basis, can we say the same for our outdoor living space?
Right around March 20th, we will officially kick off the spring season as the weather get warner and the sun is out a little bit more. It serves as a reminder that with the equinox, the days and nights are about equal length of time (close to 12 hours). So let’s gain the exposure of the sun to help synthesize the Vitamin D in our bodies! In simpler terms, let’s get out and play!
Getting Started
- For starters, if you have a bi-weekly gardener that tends to the lawn, ask him (or your husband) to do more detailed work such as a deep raking to clear and control any thatch that has built up. While heavy fertilizing is done in the fall, a lighter feed can be done with either compost or a chemical fertilizer.
- Make sure you also have the right tools for planting and gardening before you get started. A small trow, rake and gloves are a good start.
- Scotts is a popular brand and comes complete with a schedule for lawn fertilization. Then, if you’re prone to weeds, consider an herbicide. Finally, service the lawnmower to ensure it’s ready for an active summer ahead.
- Now you’re ready to re-create a more inviting and fulfilling space. Invest in durable, weather-resistant patio furniture or add new colors to an existing theme.
- A decent shade structure or canopy is also wise. The pop-up brands are fine but be mindful of its hazards on windy days.
- The dollar store stocks all kinds of seeds, landscape-type signs, and materials like spades and gardening gloves.
- If you’re a do-it-your-selfer, stock a workbench with soil, rocks, and terra cotta pots for spring projects.
Don’t forget about the kids; even that child within!
- Chalkboard paint is all the rave these days. Some local craft supply stores sell them in green and black. Find a side of the shed or purchase marine plywood (best for the outdoor elements) to use the paint on.
- You can even bring the beach to your backyard by purchasing a toy sandbox. You’d be amazed at the colored sand available at walmart.com! Buckets, shovels, and similar items are often at the dollar store too. I’ve opted for using tablespoons, spatulas, and strainers in ours.
- With the extra chalk pieces near your homemade chalkboard, you can create a more permanent effect that won’t smudge. Simply soak chalk in a solution of 1/3 cup sugar to 1 cup water for about 10 minutes. Afterwards, it can be used right away. Now you have the means to draw out a hopscotch game for the older kids. Get yourself some exercise and play a round or two yourself, why don’t you?
Whatever you decide to do, spend the time now, spring cleaning your backyard. Your kids, spouse, neighbors, and guests will be delighted you did!
By Sheila, Free Stuff Finder Contributor
