Backyard Oasis

The addition of a backyard patio adds another area of relaxation to your backyard and an area for family entertaining. The patio often will be the focal point of your backyard oasis and the other areas of your yard will form and direction from the patio layout. photo credit: Jeff Sandquist There are many styles of patios to design into your backyard area. But size of the patio and the project and cost are usually the primary decisions that affect the patio you add your backyard oasis...Read Full Story

Gardening and backyard trends and design have been changing in the few years. For quite some time pastel colors were in but this year bright fiery colors and garden art made of recycled items are making a statement in many yards. Bold and exciting is in this year, along with Small Backyard Design ideas. photo credit: SanGatiche The downward turn in the economy has also made people reevaluate their backyards and design their space making the most use of every available inch of space. This is...Read Full Story

As you plan your backyard design keep in mind the steps previously mentioned in Backyard Design Ideas. And as you move into the next phase of design remember there’s still time to change your plans you have on paper. I myself usually have three of four designs on paper before I select the final landscape design to use. photo credit: brewbooks Once you have check for any City or State building codes, Home Association rules if they apply and know your property boundaries its time to start to...Read Full Story

With the increased interest in gardening, gardening space has become an issue. You may have a large backyard but other areas also need space or you may have a balcony and only a few feet of gardening space available. But with small backyard designs and creativity you can make the best use out the space you have. photo credit: ginnerobot Another issue with gardening and backyard maintenance is time. Everyone wants a lush backyard with shrubs, trees, fruit and vegetables and room for family...Read Full Story

Successful backyard design adds to the comfort and use of your outdoor space and home. With proper planning you can manage your available space to its best space use. I’ve lived in cities where the only available space was container gardens or windows. I rented and had to work out a system where you get a landlords permission to do any backyard activity and I’ve been blessed with unlimited space in a rural setting. All situations have challenges and steps to make the best use of any space...Read Full Story

Window boxes add to any backyard and particularly to decks, balconies and small space garden areas. And the window box is perfect for the urban gardener who needs to use every inch of garden space available. photo credit: thebittenword.com With proper planning you can grow most of your garden produce in a window box garden set up. And by mixing vegetables, flowers and herbs you can grow a large variety of plants to fit every need. The you tube below will show you how to make your own window...Read Full Story

Vertical gardening is a must for the apartment renter or city dweller. But I have found even in the country it’s a practical way to grow crops. photo credit: therapycatguardian Vertical growing takes less space, is easier to maintain and it uses less water. I have also found I have less insect problems and plant disease. These you tube videos will give you an idea of what you can grow using vertical growing methods. For heavier crops I use pantyhose to tie the plant to the vertical...Read Full Story

There is beauty and relaxation to a backyard in the evening. And when you add lighting either to a patio area or a garden area the landscaping comes alive.  photo credit: RKHawaii In the recent years solar lighting is becoming very popular. One reason for its popularity is that after the initial costs for the lighting there are no additional costs. Solar lighting works by using the sun’s energy and even on overcast days the lights will pick up enough energy to add a beautiful glow to your...Read Full Story

Adding lighting to your backyard oasis area creates atmosphere and a wonderful place to relax after the sunsets. By using lighting you can emphasis certain areas of the gardens and make wandering around the yard safer. Its also seems that by lighting a garden you extend your living space to the outdoors. You will also be able to add more entertaining time and use to your backyard with evening lighting. photo credit: The County Clerk Here are a few suggestions to make lighting the backyard...Read Full Story

Has your backyard become overgrown, cluttered or just has a tired uninviting look? Or maybe redoing your backyard space has been one of those projects that you have put off. A few simple steps will help you create a backyard getaway. Organize your space. Get rid of any unwanted plants, furniture or clutter. Tidy the lawn. Keep your lawn mowed and trim around trees, gardens and porch areas. Create backyard privacy. Fencing, lattice fencing or a trellis will block the view of the road or the...Read Full Story