How to Prepare Your Yard for Summer

While it doesn’t technically start until June 20, many consider Memorial Day as the unofficial first day of summer. While you’re busy planning your vacations, buying new shorts and sandals, and switching your HVAC from heat to AC, make sure you don’t leave your yard out of the summer preparations!

There are several small (and some more ambitious) tasks you should do to make sure your yard is properly prepared for the warmer days of summer on the horizon. With the proper maintenance and care, your lawn and outdoor space will remain happy and healthy for years to come!

Ways to Prepare Your Yard for Summer

  • Aerate and remove thatch from your lawn. Aerating your lawn allows the grass to breathe and helps water reach the roots more easily. Simultaneously, rake your lawn to remove thatch and other debris, so sunlight and water can reach your grass.
  • Prune trees and shrubs. Clean up any trees or shrubs that have become unruly during the spring months. Cut off any dead, diseased or wayward branches.
  • Power wash furniture and outdoor surfaces. Deep clean your outdoor surfaces, including your furniture, patio, deck, windows and driveway.
  • Clean the exterior of your home. Clear out your gutters, power wash the exterior of your home, and remove spider webs or debris from eaves and walkways. Wait for an overcast day to clean the outside of your windows with a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and hot water.
  • Remove weeds and take care of pests. Pull any weeds that have sprung up in your garden or lawn. And treat for any pests that may have caused damage in your flower beds or vegetable garden.
  • Establish a watering schedule or install a sprinkler system. Make sure your lawn and garden are set up for a hydrated summer by installing watering timers or a sprinkler system. Just set it and forget it!
  • Stain your deck, balcony or patio. If your wooden surfaces are due for a fresh coat, consider re-staining your deck, balcony or patio to prolong its life and prevent water and sun damage. Remember to power wash your surfaces before you stain!
  • Add new outdoor furniture and accessories. Spruce up your outdoor space by adding some new furniture or accessories, like pillows, rugs, potted plants, or decorative statues. This will make your outdoor space more inviting for entertaining and relaxing.
  • Create a fire pit area. Make your own at-home campfire perfect for roasting marshmallows on a warm summer night. Either purchase a fire pit or make your very own out of cinder blocks or stone!
  • Install outdoor lighting. Lighting has the power to completely transform an outdoor space, making it a place you want to be well after the sun goes down. Add string lights, tiki torches, lanterns or install new light fixtures to properly illuminate your backyard.
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