Stunning Summer Landscaping Projects
Nothing improves the look, function and vibe of an outdoor space in Putnam County, NY like a well-planned yard. There are plenty of ways to spruce up your landscape this summer. Whether it’s for grilling or relaxing in a hammock in the shade, summer offers plenty to get the most out of the great outdoors of your home.
Outdoor Kitchen
An outdoor kitchen blends well with the outdoor entertainment area of your backyard. One of the accessories to accompany an outdoor kitchen is a grill, and if it’s to be used under a covered area to counter hot weather, a power vent hood or smokestack should be included for venting the smoke.
Grills for outdoor kitchens should be made from stainless steel to make them weatherproof. Though grills powered by gas are available, cooking with hardwoods like pecan, oak, or hickory can produce better results and a smoky flavor. Ceramic charcoal cookers can also be used as a conventional grill or as a smoker for slow cooking.
Custom cabinets can be made using treated lumber and plywood, or other weatherproof materials such as polymer based Perma-Panel cabinets. Consider building these cabinets into a sturdy natural stone or concrete wall unit for ultimate protection and style.
Stunning Shade Options
Shade is essential for summer backyard activities. Popular options include pergolas and gazebos, but you can also provide shelter for your patio by installing an awning or hanging outdoor curtains. A retractable awning is a great way to create shade when you need it and enjoy the sunshine when you don’t.
Plants should never be underestimated in their ability to create shade. Consider incorporating retaining wall planters around your patio to help keep cool. Rapid growing vines are also ideal for training over a pergola or trellis to ensure shade this summer.
Misting System
A misting unit keeps the area cool by spraying a fine mist of water into the air. These can be fitted to your existing irrigation system and mounted on your patio covering to provide a cool, refreshing mist while enjoying the outdoors. Misting systems will also help to provide moisture to delicate hanging plants that may be sensitive to the heat.
Water Feature
The soothing sound of water flowing from a fountain or a waterfall makes the yard feel like an oasis during a summer heat wave. Water features can be pre-ordered or can be made according to your liking. A water feature near your patio will also help keep your outdoor living area cool by cooling the air around it.
Related: Top Water Features for Adding Movement and Ambience to your Landscaping
Outdoor Sound System
Add a touch of class to a summer outdoor environment with a custom outdoor sound system. Waterproof speakers can be dispersed throughout the yard, switching between left and right channel. Speakers can be disguised as rocks or other natural features to blend in with the summer outdoor environment. This can be great for providing a soundtrack to a pool party or a backing to your summer cook off.
Landscape with Drought Tolerant Plants
There are many colorful and lush choices perfect for low-maintenance and don’t require much watering. These plants are adaptable for summer landscaping. Colorful options that produce appeal in a landscape setting include butterfly bush, daylilies, fringe tree, cosmos, redbud, flowering quince and spirea.