If you are like most Australians, you are getting excited as the summer approaches and your thoughts will invariably turn to the garden, which, after months of inactivity, will soon become an integral part of your living space. If you are not quite sure where to begin with a garden revamp, start by taking a good look at what you have, starting with your screening and shading.
Shading and Screening
If you already have an awning, make sure it is in good working order and if you need some outdoor blinds, there is a great selection on offer from online suppliers. If your budget stretches that far, you could go for a new retractable awning or even a permanent retractable roofing system that is tailored to fit the terrace. Outdoor blinds can provide all the wind protection you need and they even come in clear plastic if you don’t want to lose that view.
The Terrace Floor
If you have timber decking, consider sanding and re-staining as this will really make the area look like it has just been built. If you have a stone or paved terrace, a high-pressure water cleaner will make short work of cleaning the surface and you can hire one from any plant hire outfit for the cost of a few beers. The trouble with using such a device is knowing where to draw the line, as you can clean the walls and roof with a pressure cleaner. The driveway can benefit from a power wash, and then you have to do the walkways and this could turn into a major project that takes the entire weekend. However long it takes, this is money well spent, however, make sure you cover every square inch, as intermittent cleaning will make things look worse than before the clean.
The Lawn
If your grassed area is looking the worse for wear, why not ask your local landscape gardener to quote for re-turfing? Failing that, you can add some fertiliser to bring out the green and don’t forget to water it well afterwards. Using a garden fork, you can aerate the lawn, which will promote new growth and add some fertiliser after this, along with a good raking. The first cut should not be too short and try to remove all the grass cuttings, which will encourage new growth. If you want those classic lines, set up your cylinder mower (which might need a service after a winter of inactivity) and make the first cut a little longer than usual.
Shrubs & Flowers
Now is the time to add some colour to your garden and evergreen shrubs are ideal additions, perhaps a row of conifers along the fence line – or some pampas grass in the rockery.