Best Garden Decor Ideas » Outdoor Living

Fox Deterrents for Gardens Available in the Market

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 12:12:18 +0000

Many gardens in the UK suffer from unwanted visitors, particularly foxes in the evenings and at night. England is a country of foxes, and these can really destroy your property or kill any farm animals you keep in your garden like chickens or ducks. Even though it’s just nature doing its job, we can still gently deter these animals from our homes so they stop causing havoc. We have looked at the water scarecrow and also what’s available in the market. Here we offer you a list of available fox deterrents for gardens so you can choose the one that better suits your needs and as well as your pocket.

Many of the gadgets we present in this article also work for other unwanted animals in your garden: cats, rabbits, squirrels, rats, mice etc so you are not only getting the benefits of avoiding the damage that foxes can create outdoors, but also the neighbours lovely pet who adores coming to your garden and destroying your wonderful lawn or new bedding.

We have listed 9 different products by price range so it is easy for you to see which are the fox deterrent for gardens that suits you best. (Prices subject to change)

High-er Range:

1) Ultrasonic Fox, Cat and Rodent Deterrent (Battery Operated) – £51.47

***VIEW PRODUCT***

2) Fox Watch – £48.90

***VIEW PRODUCT***

3) Pet Stop & Fox Repeller – £41.99

***VIEW PRODUCT***

Mid Range:

1) Fox Repellent Wildlife – £39.95

***VIEW PRODUCT***

2) Fox Deterrent for Gardens PestBye – £27.90

***VIEW PRODUCT***

3) Fox and Dog Repellent ” Get Off Range” – £24.95

***VIEW PRODUCT***

Lower Range:

1) Fox Repellents for Gardens: Nite Eyes – £17.85

***VIEW PRODUCT***

2) Mega Sonic Fox Deterrent-Repeller – £12.95

***VIEW PRODUCT***

3) Fox Deterrent – Repeller – £10.99

***VIEW PRODUCT***

These products are gentle and WILL NOT HARM the animal, just scare it away from your property thus protecting your garden. For example, some emit high pitch sounds or just work by confusing the animal’s senses. See which one is the right one for you and your garden decor. Many incorporate a light and don’t use any chemical products.

With these different fox deterrents for gardens for you to choose from you will be able to enjoy your peaceful outdoor area. Hopefully it will be free from visitors which are not welcome to your property!

**Also see scarecrow water jet pack, scarecrow water sprinkler

Yard Windmills: More Than Just Your Ordinary Garden Decor

streamline — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:06:21 +0000

Gone are the days when garden decorations were merely there for aesthetic purposes. Today, yard decorations are more practical to consider as they can offer both beauty and functionality. Among the best decorations for the garden these days are yard windmills. They can stand with pride in your home garden to offer your yard a unique appeal with a bunch of other helpful functions.

Shine Company 4955N Windmill Statue

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Sale Price: ($69.98)

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One of the most basic functions garden windmills have is pumping water to the flower beds. Its constant motion can easily deliver the much-needed water to the plants without a lot of effort in your part. Plus, this windmill motion can scare away animals and birds. Meaning, if there is a windmill moving in your garden, animals like sheep and cow will be scared to enter your garden. Hence, windmills in gardens can prevent animals from destroying your plants.

photo by C.K.H.

Moreover, the best function of windmills today is their capability to provide electricity. Windmills can power up as little as your electric fence to as much as your whole home. Small and big windmills alike can offer you this kind of service. You can set up a big windmill to provide electricity to your home or install a series of small windmills to do the same job for you. A single small windmill, on the other hand, can power up an electric fence in your backyard to scare animals away from your garden.

photo by hartman045

It will always be good to know that yard windmills can offer you a lot aside from their usual aesthetic elements. Imagine a set of windmills rotating in unison in your garden. Every passerby will surely be in awe. What is even better news is that garden windmills do not come too expensive these days. With the various benefits you can get out of this garden decor, getting one or two for your garden will always be worth it.

Check out this great selection:

We hope that your new yard decorations add the spark and color you’re looking for in order to bring your garden to life this upcoming summer!

Unchain Your Imagination in Designing Driveway Paving for Your Garden or Patio

streamline — Wed, 02 Feb 2011 00:59:39 +0000

Modern Western world stereotype for acceptable standard of living has created an idyllic image of a family home with at least one car parked in front of the house and a driveway paving crossing the evergreen garden. Many middle-class families in Europe, and most in the United States, are able to afford such a lifestyle while methods and materials used in driveway paving and patio paving, as part of the overall garden decor, contribute to the image of a prosperous family.

Consider Using Natural Materials

photo by WOWHYD

Natural materials are recommended by all leading interior and exterior designers for the unparalleled warmth and earthy spirit of items made of such elements. A driveway made of clay paving blocks which winds through a trim garden with garden lights casting back gleams on clay elements is a proof of the unquestionable good taste of the house owner.

If you prefer concrete over fired clay blocks for its durability and higher cohesion, you might consider lending colour to the garden decor by installing decorative natural elements along the driveway, like a tiki torch on every driveway turn. Those extravagant garden lights will add fresh look to your garden or patio.

Concrete Paving Blocks Can Add Colour

photo by jessica@flickr

Although natural materials are praised also for being environment friendly, concrete paving blocks are sometimes preferred for they allow professional and self-taught designers to select from far more colour combinations. Concrete can be painted in literary each and every colour you can imagine unlike the clay paving blocks that offer a limited choice of colours. On the other hand, those two materials can be successfully combined, creating unique harmony of colour that will please every aesthete.

You might design a coloured driveway paving accompanied by ribbon-shaped pathways along the driveway and use mixed colours in patio paving to create various geometric figures. Ancient Romans knew what to do with coloured mosaic, just take a brief look at the marbled flooring of Roman mansions.

Aesthetics Is Important

photo by DorkyMum

Garden decor should reflect the overall look of the house, so do not use modern materials in a garden surrounding century old building. A consistent aesthetics presumes proper combination of materials and elements, including avoidance of unacceptable combinations of a tiki torch and neon lighting, for instance.

When planning and designing your driveway paving you could look at the best examples of garden planning that Basque architect Gaudi bequeath to modern world. His iridescent gardens full of unimaginable beasts and fantastic flowers along winding pathways are a good example what unique creations you can build from scratch, using only your imagination.

Outdoor Kitchen Designs

streamline — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 01:53:34 +0000

We all want to have the backyard of our dreams right so why not start with getting the best outdoor kitchen designs? There are many different choices that you can choose from the first thing would be to pick the theme for your outdoor kitchens as well as all of your outdoor garden decor. A few ideas are as follows.

The tranquil, park like setting – This can be a great theme for your outdoor paradise. Choose your garden decking to match this theme as well. Think of things that one finds in park, perhaps a pond, a fountain and lots of trees and flowers as well. Keep it simple if you are looking for some peace an quiet.

A tropical Theme – How about sprucing some things up and going a bit tropical? You can design your patio slabs to have a more tropical theme? Maybe a tiki torch style deck, with some tiki wall plaques and bamboo all over the place. Nothing says paradise like some tiki, some would say.

Activity Related – If you have a lot of activity going on at all times in your home than you backyard will probably need to meet these demands as well. You can set up your patio and backyard to cater to the needs of your entire family. If you have some sports fanatics that need room to play around, keep that in mind when setting up the backyard of your dreams. Especially the outdoor kitchens. As if they are in range of footballs and other flying objects, dinner may just never get served.

Romantic themed- This theme is all about the lightning and the atmosphere. Maybe you are just one of those people who love a candlelight dinner? Then why not set up your backyard to be your magical escape and to add some spruce into your love life. Get some gentle lighting, a small table for 2 and a kitchen that you can prepare some elegant meals on. Enjoy dinner under the stars in your romantic little escape.

There is so much you can do in your yard, that the possibilities are really endless. The only thing that can stop the possibilities are you and your mind. So get creative and find the inner you and set up the outdoor kitchen designs of your dreams.

photo credit: ElCapitan

Outdoor Furniture Covers – Protecting Your Outdoor Treasures

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 01:51:37 +0000

Protecting furniture on the veranda from outside elements such as heat, water and corrosion can be done by using outdoor furniture covers. Aside from the aforementioned elements, a homemaker who wants complete outdoor protection should also watch out for mildew and other unsightly growths because this can cause damage to any equipment left outdoors.

Considerations

In general, when one’s garden decor and furniture are made of plastic or metal, there is less need for protection as compared with those made of wood and ceramic. For instance, if one’s wicker furniture is made of rattan or teak, outdoor wicker furniture covers are necessary to keep them functional and beautiful. If they are made of wrought iron, the need is not as immediate.

Aside from the material that will be covered, it is also important to consider the cost. Furniture is usually bought in sets. Therefore, when buying covers for outdoor furniture, one has to aim for a whole cover set as well. Size is another important factor. It would not do if they are blown away with strong winds. Thus before buying, one has to measure the furniture accurately.

How about resin patio furniture? Resin is a natural or synthetic compound used as finishing for wooden furniture (e.g. teak) and lends it durability. Because resin furniture are very strong and durable, they are also resistant to salt and chlorine, making them ideal for pools and the seaside. It depends on the homeowner whether or not to put covers on this type since they are a lot more resistant, but home owners might want to consider the overall look and design when we add extra accessories like these ones.

Types of Covers

Patio furniture covers, due to being constantly exposed to external challenges, have to be durable and appealing at the same time. Of course, it would not do if the covers do not complement the patio design. Most of the commercial patio covers are made of waterproof materials.

The commonly used material for covers is polyester. The 12-gauge polyester with waterproof vinyl is recommended for waterproof outdoor furniture covers. Aside from water protection, this material is able to withstand temperature extremes. This top-quality material also prevents mildew formation because moisture does not reach the furniture.

Fabric covers that contain mesh vents are also advisable because these allow ventilation and prevent mildew growth. They may come with cushions and pads which add to the comfort of the user, should the furniture be used without removing the covers. On the other hand, if the homemaker prefers to remove them when guests are around or when the weather does not call for them, a storage room should be easily accessible.

An outdoor patio furniture cover may be available as slip or may have a zipper or snap. The important thing is that they have to be securely held in place. If they are just blown away or easily removed, then the investment would not be worth it.

Where to Find Covers

Through the internet, one can access many shops which have outdoor furniture covers on sale. Lowes and Frontgate are excellent sources. Plow and Hearth and Restoration Hardware are also very good places for finding just the right material for furniture.

Whether one wants custom outdoor furniture covers, dayva covers with discount or at cheap prices, these places are available to cater to the homemaker’s needs.

Photo: by Waleed Alzuhair **Cortesy of flickr.com

Outdoor Garden Lights

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 23:34:17 +0000

When planning your outdoor lifestyle garden lights will probably be a priority for you. Outdoor garden lighting can lead your guests to the areas you wish them to inhabit so if you wish to illuminate your plant stands as one of your patio ideas, a particularly effective idea is to pop a garden mirror behind the plants to double the impact of the lighting arrangement. This is an effective idea in an enclosed smaller area as it gives the illusion of space, but works equally well as a feature in a vast expanse of garden. Look at the possibility of using acrylic mirror sheets for added safety.

Landscape Lighting

You may be looking for ways to use landscape lighting across a vast expanse of your garden, this type of lighting has its own challenges and you will be looking for ideas and solutions for the specific areas you have designed to make a personal statement about your garden decor. You will probably use many types of lighting to bring different aspects of your garden to life. Flood lighting can also be considered if you enjoy outside entertaining regularly. Dangerous areas are best roped off with signs to indicate the dangers. Although illuminating the area can highlight danger you run the risk of drawing people to the area so sometimes darkness, or the minimal use of solar garden lights to emphasise the danger signs are a better alternative. If you have a vast expanse of garden to cover consider using commercial connectable lights. Led lights are usually suitable for all weather types; so handy for Halloween and Xmas as well as garden or patio lights for the summer months.

Leading the Eye

Outdoor lighting leads the eye, so using garden string lights to draw your guests’ eyes upwards will highlight different aspects of your outdoor space then having a row of solar powered garden lights to light a path at low level. You may have garden art that you wish to highlight and a solar garden light placed strategically will mean that you never have to worry about the cost of showing off your prized article, be it a bronze statue, a stone waterfall or wall art.

Natural Flame

Natural flames compliment enclosed areas and make great yard lights. You may like the reflective quality of a natural flame such as a Moroccan lantern or tiki torch, which will cast dancing shadows on your walls. Do however consider the safety aspect, are you sure it is safe to use naked flame in your enclosed area? You may want to think about low voltage garden lights instead and save the natural flame until all the children are safely tucked away in bed. Where people are consuming alcohol you have to carefully consider the safety aspect. However lantern garden lights often use tea light candles and as they are surrounded by glass are safer options as party lights. Also you may find some tea light wall sconces that are appropriate, perhaps you have some indoor sconces you could appropriate for an evenings entertainment outdoors.

Photo by gnackgnackgnack **Courtesy of flickr.com

Outdoor Wall Art – An Expression of Ourselves

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 11:05:54 +0000

As we love to bring the outside into our homes, we can now also bring the inside out and today the garden is as much an expression of who we are as our home is. A really good way to make your personal garden statement is with outdoor wall art. There will be many considerations when selecting decorations, the size of your garden space being primary to your decisions. Even the smallest balcony can be enhanced by a simple wall mounted plaque with tea lights, or a metal plant trellis to climb your flowers and along. Modern coatings and paint effects ensure longevity and durability when exposed to the elements, so consider the finishes and life expectancy when making your investment.

Garden Decor Accessories

If you have an abundance of space, you can really go to town with large outdoor wall art. Walls such as the unsightly garage or the old shed can be transformed into that gallery you always wanted making your backyard resemble a studio. Let your personal preferences run wild and indulge yourself. If you are an artist a wall becomes a blank canvas for creating murals, but if not pop down to your local garden centre or go online to check out stores for the best garden art supplies. Most outdoor paints will do fine, but will need sporadic attention to ensure the mural is maintained to a high standard. Consider the children at play though and always make sure your materials are safe and appropriate for the little ones.

Outdoor Garden Wall Art

Outdoor metal wall art is an obvious choice and metal is already part of lots of gardens, with wrought iron hanging basket brackets and metal railings. It is quite simple to add to what you already have, there are some lovely wrought iron wall art plaques, such as lovely leaf design tea light holders that add a touch of romantic lighting to your evenings in the garden. Also consider wall mounted cast iron tables or pot plant holders with a trellis which can bring practical sculpture into the garden.

Another popular metal is blue steel, great for bringing a touch of adventure into the garden; the lovely silver with blued patches lends itself well to nautical themes. The blues and silvery greys can compliment most tastes if you shop around; the ranges available are quite surprising. Look out for color washed items also such as fern fronds with gold highlights on a green wash background.

Outdoor copper wall art is another component of artistic garden decor design and if you have the money why not consider a bespoke copper water fountain for your garden or wall? A truly original creation, that brings the water feature into your garden in a unique and special way. Outdoor wall art plaques can really transform the bland areas adding interest and style. Fine garden art says a lot about you, so whether it’s copper fishes, sculptured tulips or a stylish shimmering dragonfly you want in your pop onto your garden wall, the ranges of garden decor accessories available in stores is quite dramatic and wide ranging. Prices range from cheap pound/dollar store items to state of the art commissions so use your imagination to create your ideal outdoor gallery.

Photo by knitsteel **Cortesy of flickr.com

Cost Effective Solutions – A Deck Canopy

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 15:24:58 +0000

If you are searching for a quick easy and temporary cost effective solution to protect your selves from the outdoor sun a deck canopy could well provide the solution you require. Roll up awnings are a great idea for a more permanent structure, but it could be you need to use your deck shade canopy as an interim solution or perhaps in more than one location, so portability will take precedence for you. When considering temporary patio shade there are a number of options all with pros and cons, what you decide on will be about your immediate requirements.

Considerations for Deck Canopies

It could be you need a very simple pop up gazebo for your outdoor space, a gazebo offers a degree of both privacy and shade and a small light gazebo tent can be moved around as the sun changes position to ensure you always have protection in the area of your garden that requires the shade. Depending on the size you select, as a marquee party tent can be large enough to hold a wedding or other function in, you may be able to accommodate all your patio furniture. Another benefit is that the sides can be opened or closed at will. This function can be useful when eating to keep all the insects away from the food, or perhaps for a romantic interlude away from prying eyes.

Another lightweight and cost effective choice for an outdoor deck canopy can also be a cabana, which is basically a pop-up half-tent that will provide an effective shelter for those lazy summer days. This sort of tent can be as light as 3Kg and they come in UV protective tent fabrics that offer shelter from both wind and heat, often having a SPF50+ sun protection. This solution is also an excellent choice for the beach, but you will not be able to position your patio furniture inside, so if you have elderly or less able bodied amongst you this could be a drawback. However in general, for kids and young adults it’s a great multi use option you can take anywhere.

A pergola is a more permanent structure that allows you to be exposed to the elements and nature it does not usually have a roof as such. However a cover
can be purchased and roofing options such as metal, fiberglass, plastic, and fabric are all available to give you additional protection. Do consider how much UV protection will be gained though as this has to be a primary consideration when making a choice. Pergolas often are crucial items of garden decor and if you are a gardener canopies for decks can be grown with climbing plants and look and smell absolutely stunning when in full bloom.

Suppliers of Deck Canopys

Always research the many possibilities before purchasing, it could well be that shade sails fitted to your existing pergola may be all you need. Look online at Lowes for some great ideas, online shopping can save you money and time. Sears also have a very comprehensive outdoor living section and you can pop into the store for information and advice on the best patio canopy for your requirements. It could be that with expert advice you recognise that in fact a retractable awning is actually what you need. Walmart also have an enviable range of cost effective patio shade solutions well worth investigation.

Photo on front page: Kansas PoetryCortesy of flickr.com

Outdoor Tents and Gazebos are Useful for a Variety of Activities

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:08:28 +0000

There are many different situations that can benefit from the use of outdoor tents and gazebos. Many different styles, sizes and constructions are used for such products, so there is likely to be a product for any purpose. Some are designed for entertaining, while others are more useful for outdoor activities. These practical little numbers can really add to the overall quality of your social life outdoors while enjoying the garden decor, with family reunions, barbacues, parties, etc.

A 10 x 30 white party tent gazebo canopy with sidewalls is ideal for special occasions, such as weddings, anniversary celebrations and other special occasions being held outdoors. Because the product uses sides, it can prevent food and special clothing from being ruined by outdoor elements, such as rain and high winds. It also helps differentiate a special area or activity from others.

A gazebo tent can be fairly quick to put up and take down, if a brand such as EZ Up or something similar is selected. Some products are made with powder coated steel poles, with a canvas or vinyl covering and matching sides. Some models require the use of stakes driven into the ground, for additional stability. Others consist of a hard PVC frame, with vinyl or canvas top and walls. The type or model selected may depend upon whether the product is used on a concrete patio or in a large yard.

Regardless of the purpose, these products are available in a variety of price ranges, so there is a model available for the tightest budget. It is still wise to consider how and where the item will be put up. Some products require many sets of hands, while others require only one adult.

A typical 10 x 20 white party tent gazebo canopy with sidewalls will probably require at least two adults to set up and take down. You should consider the amount of time that will be required for setting up and tearing down the item, if it is used for a special occasion in which a specific location has been reserved. There may be time limits that help you decide on the most convenient model.

There are products designed specifically for outdoor activities, such as camping, like for example the Ozark Trail hanging tent gazebo. This item sleeps up to five people, is weatherproof and sets up in a few seconds. It features a full floor and windows with flaps for ventilation. For around $60, this product is great for those who frequently enjoy the outdoors and makes camping a family activity, so don’t forget your camping guide before your start your adventure outdoors. While this product is a great value for those who enjoy spending time in the outdoors, there are other portable gazebo tents available as well.

The 10 x 20 EZ Pop product serves as a great shelter for use with or without a pop up tent. It features a steel frame and a green canvas top. Optional sidewalls come in green as well, though it also includes unique vinyl see-through windows. While this product can be used for many different outdoor activities, it can also serve as a temporary storage or cover for a car, ATV, dirt bike or outdoor tools. This highly durable product costs around $150 and is definitely multifunctional.

Advantages of Portable Gazebo Tents

Wed, 09 Jun 2010 00:03:31 +0000

There are many times when we need a portable form of cover for an outside event. Portable gazebo tents will meet those needs and exceed them. This new breed of outdoor tents and gazebos stand ready to meet consumer’s needs. They offer an array of options to help customize the space to each person’s individual needs. They are easy to put up, durable and stylish.

Unlike the wooden gazebo or other type of solid structures, this type of gazebo tent works well for business applications. If you pair the 10 x 30 white party tent gazebo canopy with sidewalls you have the perfect environment for a vendor booth. The tent is easy to set up at local fairs, swap meets and other venues. Set up can be accomplished by one person in just a minute or two. The heavy-duty canvas top looks great in plain white but they have a festive array of patterns to choose from. It protects you and your products from the sun and rain. The zip sidewalls help further define your space and protect it from the elements. When leaving it set up overnight zip the front and all your items are protected and contained.

These would also be great when a business wants to set up an outside event. Events such as employee appreciation or customer appreciation days. It puts together the perfect centerpiece for the event. A place to register participants, offer promotional items or serve food. It does not have to be put together or put up until you are ready to begin. Having two or three of these on hand is a smart and economical idea.

These versatile tents have great appeal when camping or even going to the park for the day. They are lightweight and easy to carry. Perfect for anything you need, instant shade from the sun or rain. A backyard birthday party or even a family gathering to enjoy the garden decor will benefit from the comfort they will provide. A day at the beach might last a little longer if you have a place to sit in the shade for a while.

Set one up at your campsite to make the perfect area to prepare and eat food. It also creates a protected environment for field dressing game on hunting or fishing trips. It helps you get through those spring and summer showers with ease. The 10 x 20 white party tent gazebo canopy with sidewalls offers a little more portability than the bigger tent. They both come in their own carry case.

There are many different manufacturers of these types of portable shelter. The Ozark trail hanging tent gazebo can be purchased at most mass retailers. Most of the brands feature heavy-duty canvas tops that protect against sun and rain. Sidewalls options include a canvas zip on sidewall or a heavy clear plastic zip on sidewall. The frames are of good quality metal. Most brands offer a one to two year warranty. They will last for many years depending on use patterns. Once you own one you will find more and more reasons to put it to use.

Best Garden Decor Ideas » Outdoor Living

Fox Deterrents for Gardens Available in the Market

High-er Range:

Mid Range:

Lower Range:

Yard Windmills: More Than Just Your Ordinary Garden Decor

Check out this great selection:

Unchain Your Imagination in Designing Driveway Paving for Your Garden or Patio

Outdoor Kitchen Designs

Outdoor Furniture Covers – Protecting Your Outdoor Treasures

Photo: by Waleed Alzuhair **Cortesy of flickr.com

Outdoor Garden Lights

Photo by gnackgnackgnack **Courtesy of flickr.com

Outdoor Wall Art – An Expression of Ourselves

Photo by knitsteel **Cortesy of flickr.com

Cost Effective Solutions – A Deck Canopy

**Photo on front page: Kansas Poetry**Cortesy of flickr.com

Outdoor Tents and Gazebos are Useful for a Variety of Activities

Advantages of Portable Gazebo Tents

Photo on front page: Kansas PoetryCortesy of flickr.com