Spring is in the air, and I’m looking forward to spending more time relaxing in my outdoor living space. Here are some tips for refreshing my patio, deck, or backyard to make it more inviting for those sunny spring days.
Clean and Organize
The first step is a thorough cleaning and reorganization of the space.
Remove Fall and Winter Items
- I’ll stow away any outdoor cushions, blankets, and accessories I used for fall and winter.
- I’ll also remove any coverings used to protect furniture.
- If I have a fire pit or chiminea, I’ll clean out ashes and debris from the cold weather months.
Deep Clean Furniture and Decor
- Outdoor furniture often gets dusty and dirty over the winter. I’ll wipe down and scrub all surfaces.
- I’ll also wash outdoor rugs and pillows if needed.
- For a deep clean on wicker or rattan, I may use a gentle pressure washer.
- Any outdoor decor like pots, sculptures, and fountains will also get a thorough cleaning.
Organize Accessories and Tools
- I’ll go through bins and pots full of outdoor accessories and tools.
- Throw away or donate anything I don’t use anymore.
- Organize and store neatly so everything is easy to find later.
Add Some Color
Incorporating colorful and blooming plants and flowers will instantly liven up the space.
Add Potted Flowering Plants
Pots of bright, cheerful flowers are a quick way to bring color. Some great options include:
- Geraniums
- Petunias
- Begonias
- Sunflowers
- Daisies
- Pansies
- Azaleas
- Hydrangeas
I’ll be sure to place pots and planters in areas where they will receive sufficient sunlight.
Plant Flowering Shrubs and Bushes
If I want to add some permanent flowering plants, I can plant shrubs and bushes around my yard and garden beds. Vibrant options for spring include:
- Forsythia
- Lilacs
- Rhododendrons
- Azaleas
- Hydrangeas
- Spirea
Use Blooming Hanging Baskets
Hanging flower baskets are gorgeous on porches and patios. Some springtime possibilities:
- Petunias
- Fuchsias
- Million bells
- Verbena
- Ivy geraniums
Update Decor and Furnishings
A few updates and additions to my outdoor decor can give the space a fresh new look.
Switch out Throw Pillows and Cushions
An easy refresh is swapping out pillows and cushions with lighter, brighter spring colors and patterns. I’ll store away any darker, heavier ones I was using in winter.
Add an Area Rug
Area rugs add instant color and style. For spring, I’ll look for lighter woven or braided rugs, or patterns with flowers and greenery.
Use Pastel and Bright Hues in Decor
I’ll swap out any heavy throws and accessories in dark fall hues for lighter whites, pastels, and bright spring colors. Things like placemats, table runners, and patio umbrellas are easy updates.
Create Inviting Seating and Relaxation Areas
Maximize my outdoor space for lounging and dining with fresh seating vignettes.
Arrange Seating in Conversation Areas
I’ll arrange chairs, benches, stools, and sofas around coffee tables to create cozy conversation areas. I’ll add pillows and throws for extra comfort.
Set Up a Dining Space
For al fresco dining, I’ll set up a table and chairs and accessorize with placemats, napkins, candles, and a centerpiece. I can use decor like string lights overhead to give it a nice ambiance in the evenings.
Designate a Reading Nook
A comfy chaise lounge or hammock with soft pillows and an end table makes for the perfect reading spot in a shady corner of the yard.
Add a Porch Swing or Hanging Chair
A breezy porch swing or hanging chair offers a soothing place to lounge on nice days. I’ll be sure to hang it in a spot with a nice view.
Incorporate Nature and Greenery
Plants, flowers, and other natural elements give a fresh springtime feel. Some easy ideas:
Display Fresh Floral Bouquets
I’ll place pretty spring flower arrangements on tables, hang them from hooks, or set them in unexpected places like an old bicycle basket or watering can.
Add Potted Trees and Plants
Potted trees like Japanese maples, fruit trees, or evergreens add natural structure and interest. I’ll also use pots of herbs, grasses, ferns, and succulents.
Create a Small Water Feature
The pleasant sound of trickling water is so peaceful. I can install a small fountain, pond, or bubbling rock feature.
Showcase Natural Materials
Stacked stones, gravel or mulch pathways, rustic wood planters, and elements like bent twigs can showcase the textures of nature.
With some creativity and elbow grease, I can transform my outdoor space into a relaxing oasis. These refreshing updates will have me excited to spend my spring days lounging and entertaining outdoors.
