Spend more time outdoors this summer by creating your own oasis right outside your backdoor. Here are some tips to create a relaxing and tranquil environment to enjoy all summer long. 

1. Create Privacy 

Creating a private space will help set the tone for the rest of your Oasis design. Block out neighbors, nearby buildings or streets by using a variety of materials to create a screen. Fencing, planters, and trees can give you privacy if you have a yard or larger space. For smaller spaces like balconies or apartment patios, try using a trellis with vining plants or even curtains to create a private space to enjoy. 

2. Control Pests

Nothing ruins a relaxing day outdoors like uninvited guests. Prevention is key when it comes to stopping mosquitoes from taking over this summer. Spray Mosquito Barrier on everything green in your yard including your lawn, trees and shrubs at dusk when they are most active. Remove any areas where standing water accumulates. These are breeding grounds for mosquito larva. Or use Mosquito Dunks, if you can’t remove the water.

You can also use citronella candles, tiki torches and personal protection like bug repellant or Go-clips to keep those pests away. 

Plant mosquito repelling plants like Citrosa, Marigolds, Lavender and Spearmint throughout your outdoor spaces or plant a mosquito-repelling container garden to help keep them at bay. 

Learn more about Tips for Controlling Mosquitoes and Creating a Mosquito Repelling Container

3. Add a place to relax

The most important part of any outdoor space is creating a place to relax. Choose comfortable seating that will allow you and your guests to stay awhile.

A lounge set is a great option. These cushioned patio sets have thick, comfortable cushions, just like your indoor sofa. Available in a variety of sizes from sectionals, to love seats, to armchairs and ottomans, you can find something that fits your space. Add a dining, coffee, or end table to create the perfect entertaining space for any occasion. 

Consider adding a dream hammock or egg chair for alternative seating. These comfy additions will have you spending hours kicking back and relaxing. 

Learn more about Selecting the Right Patio Furniture

4. Create Ambiance

Take your Backyard Oasis to the next level by getting creative with shelter, lighting and sound. Find the perfect ambiance for relaxing and entertaining, and you’ll want to spend all your time outdoors.  

Create shade by adding an umbrella. A large Cantilever umbrella can protect a large area from the midday sun. With tilting options, rolling bases and LED lighting, these umbrellas are perfect to finish your outdoor space. 

For smaller spaces try a market umbrella. These free-standing umbrellas are great for providing shade for a smaller area. 

Add lighting to strategic areas of your yard to maximize the time you can spend outdoors. Add mood lighting with solar-powered bulbs strung over your patio. Rope lighting along a fence or deck railing, candles and tiki torches along the perimeter of your patio, or placing stake lights in container gardens or landscape beds can help create the perfect space and keep your outdoors well after the sun sets. 

Amplify the tranquility of your space by adding a water feature. Fountains make a great focal point and provide a relaxing, natural soundtrack. 

Learn more about Creating an Outdoor Room

5. Add the finishing touches

Finish off your space by adding the comforts of home. Add throw pillows, rugs, plants and decorative details to create an outdoor space just as cozy and welcoming as your indoor space. 

Get creative with outdoor accessories. Use a bold patterned or colored rug to anchor your conversation area. Use complementary throw pillows to tie it all together. Accent your dining or end tables with fun tableware, and centerpieces to bring your own unique style to your space. 

Finish it off with plants and foliage. Nothing says outdoor oasis like being surrounded by lush tropical plants. Let your houseplants vacation on your patio this summer and add some living decor to your space. A tropical hibiscus, gardenia or Mandevilla vine will add color and fragrance to your oasis. 

Learn more about Accessorize Your Outdoor Living Space

For everything you need to create your own Backyard Oasis visit any English Gardens location.