Although we’d like to, we can’t all jet off to a foreign land for a summer vacation, but don’t worry we’ve still got time to make this a summer to remember. The glorious British sun is shining and it’s time we got back in our gardens and make the most of it.
From the perfect garden furniture to lighting that creates an ambiance; we’ve devised a fool-proof list of the biggest summer must-haves to make sure you seize those scorching summer months.
Parasol
We wish for sunny weather all year round, only to complain that it’s too hot when summer finally comes. Propping up a parasol on the patio or children’s play area can provide vital protection from the blazing heat. You’ll also be prepared for the inevitable washout which follows a few days of sun. No matter what the weather throws your way, a parasol will always come in handy.
Garden Lighting
Fairy lights and lanterns create a magical feel to any garden. A subtle low light still allows you to enjoy the evening long after the sun goes down and opens up your garden, creating the illusion that you have more space.
LED lights are extremely energy efficient and use much less power than your regular indoor bulbs. Don’t be afraid to adorn your patio or decking with these twinkling little lights.
Perfect for gatherings and BBQs, there’s no excuse for you to neglect your garden retreat day or night.
Outdoor Furniture
There are 3 key features you should look out for when purchasing your next outdoor furniture set;
- Weight
- Durability
- Customisable
Whether it’s a rattan corner-piece or relaxing daybed, you’re inevitably going to need to move it around the garden to chase the sun rays or make way for guests. Make sure your furniture is easy to fold away or pick up and move.
Durability is a factor that will determine how long you’ll have your purchase for. If you invest in plastic or PVC furniture, you’ll be able to use it all year round and it will stay in great condition even when not in use. Metal garden furniture, on the other hand, is prone to rust. Even when stored in your shed, condensation will likely make its mark on your tables and chairs, leaving them to rust without you even knowing.
The third attribute to look out for is customisability. If you’re buying a larger piece, you may want to look out for one that will allow you to take each section apart and rearrange the shape of the furniture to accommodate guests or create a completely new feel to your garden.
Herb Garden
By growing herbs in your garden such as lavender, mint and rosemary, you’ll be able to cook up some delicious dishes to dine alfresco in the summer sun. Why not use these home-grown herbs to inspire your next meal to serve to your family and friends?
The subtle scent of the flora basking in the sun will help you drift off into another world, making you really feel as if you’ve escaped for a relaxing summer holiday.
Maybe you could even get the children involved by getting them to help you pot the plants and tend to your new garden. You could make a full afternoon activity out of it and get them to decorate labels for each plant, so that you know exactly which herb is which.
Patio Heater
Drawing towards the end of the summer or on those days when the clouds won’t seem to shit, a parasol makes a great addition to any garden. Let’s be honest, it’s not the warmest when the sun goes down, so we’ll need all the help we can get to continue lounging in the garden until the later hours. A patio heater is an investment that you’re sure to make use of at all times of the year.
Whether you’re suffering from the holiday blues, or you’re not going away at all; your garden can become your own private haven during the summer months. Many of these must-haves can be used all year round, year after year. Companies such as Rattan Direct cater for all of your garden needs this summer, so come on, let’s make it the best yet!