Even though you might still be freezing during the cold winter months, it's still fun to think ahead to summertime. If you are wanting to start now to create a picture-perfect backyard, here are some ideas that might help you to design something unique and enjoyable.
One great way to design your backyard is to visually divide it into different sections.
The Garden Area - You can really save money by starting your own seedlings now. All you'll need is egg cartons, potting soil and the plants you want for your backyard. One neat idea is to mix edible flowers and vegetables along with your regular plants. Some flowers that are edible are day lilies, lavender, squash blossoms, and Nasturtiums. Add herbs like dill, cilantro, chives and basil, too. After the plants have matured and the weather is right, those small plants will be transferred to your flower beds and covered with wood chips. Wood chips don't just add beauty to your yard. They also keep weeds down and they hold moisture in the soil, reducing the amount of water you'll need to add. Eventually the wood chips will decompose and you'll need to add more. That's not a problem, though, as they are very affordable.
When you establish the garden area of your backyard, think about mixing a hardscape as part of your landscape. Placing large rocks and pots of different sizes and designs will add interest to your garden spot. Another great idea is to create a focal point. A two or three-tiered fountain or other large statuary would make a good focal point.
A Play Area - Whether you have children or grandchildren, a play area will be a great addition to your backyard. Start with wood chips as your ground cover. Kids are bound to tumble and fall and wood chips just provide a great landing for their little bodies. Be sure to put down plenty of wood chips. The chips should be at several feet deep so there will be plenty of cushion. Besides playground equipment, choose small furniture, including a table and chairs, so that the kids can have picnics and tea parties in the play area of your backyard. Provide covered storage space for things like balls and other play equipment. To learn more, contact a company like The Bushel Stop.
When you're ordering your wood chips for the backyard, think about ordering hickory wood chips for grilling. You'll love the sweet taste that adds the flavor of bacon to different meats.
