The sunny days of summer will soon be here! Now is the perfect time to get your garden looking its best so you can enjoy lazy afternoons relaxing outside. Follow these five fantastic tips to transform your outdoor space into a summer oasis.

1. Install a Pergola

A pergola offers shade on hot summer days and is ideal for training climbing plants over. Choose either a wooden pergola for a traditional look or a glass pergola for a contemporary feel. Position your pergola in a spot where it will provide dappled shade at the hottest time of day. Check whether planning permission is needed before installing a large pergola. Make sure to properly secure it into the ground. Then you can add height with climbing plants - try honeysuckle, clematis or roses. Fairy lights intertwined overhead will create a magical effect on balmy evenings.

2. Refresh Your Garden Furniture

After months stuck indoors over winter, your garden furniture is probably looking a bit lacklustre. Give tired wooden furniture a new lease of life by sanding down and re-varnishing. Use a weatherproof varnish to protect against the elements. For metal furniture, remove rust with wire wool and re-paint with exterior paint. Don't forget to wash chair cushions and replace them as needed. Investing in some bright and cheerful cushions is an easy way to inject some colour into your garden.

3. Clean the Patio

Over the winter months, your patio or decking can become grubby with moss, weeds, and stains. Use a stiff brush and patio cleaner to remove any dirt or debris. A pressure washer is great for blasting away tougher stains. Re-grout any cracks or gaps. Remember to sweep up leaves and other organic matter, as this can make surfaces slippery. Check for loose or broken pavers and re-lay if needed. Add some lush potted plants like ornamental grasses for pops of fresh colour. Top tip: water down the patio after washing so it dries streak-free.

4. Add Colour with Plants

From vibrant blooms to lush greenery, plants are key for injecting colour into your garden. Choose varieties that thrive in warmer weather. Popular options include geraniums, petunias, marigolds, and lavender. Plant in borders or containers for a burst of summer cheer. Trailing plants like lobelia look fantastic in hanging baskets. For quick colour, opt for established potted plants or bedding plants. Herb gardens also flourish in summer and look (and smell!) amazing. Make sure you keep plants well watered, especially during heatwaves. A water feature like a pond or fountain will also attract wildlife to your garden.

5. Look After Your Lawn

Your lawn is likely in need of some TLC after the cooler months. Rake thoroughly to remove moss and thatch. Apply a spring and summer fertiliser to encourage strong and healthy grass growth. April is the perfect time to overseed any bare patches. Mowing little and often is best - aim for 1-2 cuts per week. Set blades fairly high to avoid stressing the grass. Keep an eye out for weeds like dandelions and dig out roots. Edging the lawn will keep it neat and tidy. Set sprinklers to come on early morning - avoid evening watering to discourage fungal diseases. With some care and attention, your lawn will provide a lush green centrepiece.

Following these five tips will ensure your garden is looking its best for the arrival of sunny days. With a refreshed outdoor space, you'll be able to enjoy alfresco dining, relaxing in the garden, and entertaining friends and family this summer.

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