As summer progresses, avid gardeners are often busy with planting, watering, weeding, and harvesting. Yet, it’s important to take a step back and appreciate the fruits of your labor. After all, the beauty of a garden is meant to be enjoyed. Here are some ideas to help you make the most of your garden this summer, or improve it for the seasons to come.
Create a Relaxation Spot
To fully enjoy your garden, consider creating a designated area for relaxation. While a standard patio set is great for dining, adding a bench or seating in a scenic spot can provide the perfect vantage point. Think about placing it at the end of a garden path, where you can admire the layout, or in a shady corner for some respite from the sun.
Your seating can also be a stylish feature in itself. Frame it with large terracotta pots filled with vibrant bedding plants, herbs, or topiary. Adding climbing plants like jasmine, honeysuckle, or rambling roses around the seating can enhance the space with fragrance and dappled shade.
Enhance Your Garden with Sound and Movement
Bring your garden to life by stimulating the senses with sound and motion. One of the easiest ways to add both is with a water feature. A small fountain can provide soothing sounds and attract local wildlife, creating a peaceful ambiance. Place it where you can hear it clearly, so it becomes a natural backdrop while you relax or work in your garden.
If you have limited trees or shrubs to rustle in the breeze, consider adding bamboo. Its soft rustling adds a pleasant sound, and clump-forming varieties will prevent it from spreading uncontrollably. Wind chimes can also introduce a soothing sound, though wooden or bamboo chimes are often less intrusive than metal ones.
Make Evening Relaxation Special
Evenings in the garden can be magical, especially with a little lighting. Instead of harsh spotlights, which contribute to light pollution, opt for subtle lighting that enhances the atmosphere. LED lights are an energy-efficient option and can be used to highlight tree branches or garden features. Solar-powered fairy lights are another affordable option; string them around dining areas to extend your outdoor enjoyment well into the night.
DIY Drinks Cooler
On hot summer days, nothing beats a refreshing drink made from garden-grown fruits and herbs. From smoothies to lemonades, there are endless ways to use your garden’s bounty. For a fun DIY project, create your own drinks cooler to keep beverages chilled. Simply take two clay terracotta pots—one larger than the other—and seal any drainage holes. Place the smaller pot inside the larger one, filling the space between with sand. Add water to wet the sand, then place your drinks inside. Cover the pots with a damp towel, which wicks moisture away and cools the drinks through evaporation. It’s a simple, low-tech way to keep your drinks cool while you enjoy the garden.
By thoughtfully incorporating these ideas, you can make the most of your summer garden and create a serene, sensory-filled retreat. Whether it’s relaxing with a cold drink, listening to the sounds of water and wind, or enjoying the beauty around you, take time to savor the summer season in your garden.