AUSSIE summers and backyard living go hand in hand. Think sizzling snags, a cold drink in hand, kids running through the sprinkler and mates who somehow turn a quick catch-up into an all-day affair.
Creating a great summer backyard doesn’t mean having fancy landscaping or a lawn straight out of a gardening magazine, it’s about making your outdoor space somewhere you actually want to spend time.
Start with some shade. Goulburn Valley summers don’t muck around, so a pergola, shade sail or large market umbrella can make all the difference. A few strategically placed trees also offer natural shade for years to come. Think about where the afternoon sun hits when positioning your seating.
Make yourself comfortable. Outdoor lounges, weather-resistant cushions and a decent dining setting can turn a patch of grass into an extension of your living room. Add some fairy lights or solar-powered garden lights and the space becomes just as inviting after dark.
Make entertaining easy. An outdoor kitchen or barbecue station keeps the cook part of the action, while a drinks tub filled with ice means fewer trips inside. Make sure there’s plenty of seating and somewhere for guests to put their drinks and plates.
Bring in some greenery. Choose hardy plants suited to the local climate, mulch garden beds to retain moisture and group pots together for a pop of colour. Check how much sunlight your garden receives before choosing new plants.
Make it your own. Whether it’s backyard cricket, Sunday lunch with the family or a quiet spot for your morning cuppa, think about how you’ll use the space and make that the priority.
You don’t need to overhaul the whole backyard. Start small, add a few thoughtful touches and build from there.
After all, there’s no better place to spend an Aussie summer than your own little patch of paradise.
