Hot summer temperatures can make being outdoors a less-than-enjoyable experience. With a little imagination and planning, your yard can be transformed into a cool, comfortable retreat from the heat.

LANDSCAPING FOR SUMMER COMFORT

All of the plants in your landscape are capable of absorbing heat and cooling the air. The trick is to make sure that your outdoor relaxation or entertainment areas are surrounded by plant life. Shade trees are great for blocking or filtering direct sunlight, and grass acts as a natural outdoor air conditioner.

If you have a deck or patio on your property, you may want to consider adding an overhead trellis or awning to filter the sun and support hanging flower baskets.

TREAT YOURSELF TO A WATER FEATURE

Water has soothing, cooling effects no matter what form it takes, and a water feature can be added to your property at surprisingly little cost. Preformed plastic pond shells are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. Alternately, a hole can be dug in your landscape, then lined with sand and a heavy plastic pool liner. Once installed, you may want to add fish; a small, submersible pump to create a fountain or waterfall; or water plants such as lilies.

If you’ll be using your outdoor cool spots for nighttime entertaining, be sure to include lighting features for added ambiance. Low-voltage lighting systems are an easy and cost-effective way to light up your nights. Plus, citronella candles or torches can be used to keep pesky mosquitoes away while adding a pleasing glow to your property.

When it comes to beating the heat this summer, the possibilities for your landscape are many. Have fun, and don’t be afraid to experiment! Contact us today!