Outdoor

Here’s How to Get Your Yard Ready for Spring & Summer

Longer days and warmer weather mean it’s time to get your backyard ready for family and friends. Is your old grill in need of an upgrade? Consider a new propane BBQ for cookouts, or a natural gas BBQ if you have a gas connection. A pellet grill or smoker can add apple, hickory and other flavours to your food, and an outdoor pizza oven can broaden your outdoor cooking options. After the sun goes down you’ll want a good patio heater to keep people warm. A fire pit table or fire bowl will add both heat and ambience for outdoor dining. Outdoor string lights will also help foster a cozy feel as dusk turns to evening. Solar garden lights will let guests know they’re welcome to explore the rest of your yard. A gazebo or pergola can be a great destination spot for nighttime or daytime strollers. Be sure to include an outdoor sectional and other patio furniture for comfy resting and conversation.

Be sure to get your lawn and garden prep out of the way before the first big backyard party. New grass seed needs time to take root, and you don’t want kids and pets playing on a freshly fertilized lawn. Top up your garden soil where needed, and add mulch to keep the soil cool and inhibit weed growth. Sprinklers, hoses and other irrigation equipment should be set up in advance. Finally, check all your lawn and garden tools to ensure you’ve got everything you’ll need from spring through to fall.