Best Garden Decor Ideas

Have you ever thought about adding a water scarecrow to your garden? This scarecrow is a nifty little system that keeps the birds away from gardens and pools. It consists of a sprinkler that squirts water for a few seconds and it is activated only when motion is detected. The scarecrow water sprinkler will cover an area of around 10m (wide) by 14m (length) and operates on a 9 volt battery capable of supplying up to three thousand shots and uses very little water in each shot, and it will not affect at all any of the watering methods you use in your garden.

It also will not affect your garden decor, as it is quite small and not very noticeable. Some people use the scarecrow water sprayer for their pools or outdoor water fountains (so pigeons and other birds don’t rest on the borders messing them up). It will shoot water at them when it detects motion without any damage (it is harmless) so your pool can stay nice and clean throughout the summer period or while your are using it.

For best brand jet water spray deterrent check out what your pocket can afford. Contech is probably the most popular one, while Havahart also offers a scarecrow yard sprayer at an affordable price with good consumer reviews. They’re both popular brands with similar prices, Contech’s scarecrow looks more like.. well, a scarecrow.

**If you are in the UK, click HERE for best Amazon Sprayers**

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Here are the 3 Contech options we’ve chosen:

Contech CRO101 Scarecrow Motion Activated Sprinkler List Price: ($59.99) Sale Price: ($42.02) Availability: (Usually ships in 1-2 business days) View Product

Contech StayAway Motion-Activated Pet Deterrent List Price: ($49.99) Sale Price: ($53.99) Availability: (Usually ships in 1-2 business days) View Product

Contech CatStop Ultrasonic Outdoor Cat Deterrent List Price: ($59.00) Sale Price: ($41.55) Availability: (Usually ships in 1-2 business days) View Product

And here’s the Havahart 5265 Spray Away Motion-Activated Water Repellent:

Havahart 5265 Spray Away Motion Detector Sprinkler Animal Repellent List Price: ($49.99) Sale Price: ($49.99) Availability: (Usually ships in 24 hours) View Product

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Our last option is a cheap “scarecrow” by Laguna (Laguna Blue Heron), which can also help the look of your garden decor:

Laguna Blue Heron List Price: ($41.99) Sale Price: ($18.90) Availability: (Usually ships in 1-2 business days) View Product

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Water scarecrows are being used as a method for conservation in gardens but it is advisable that you do not leave outside during the winter. The water will freeze and damage the scarecrow, so store it inside the shed or somewhere indoors. This device can set you back from $40 to around $100 depending on the specific brand. The beauty is that it doesn’t use any chemicals and it is not complicated to set up as well as being very inexpensive to run. The sprayer shoots water unexpectedly which works extremely efficiently when it comes to scaring off any animals that could damage your garden and keeping the decor at its best. It is also environmentally friendly.

So there is no need for you to be thinking of traps or electric fences which can be quite inhumane to animals. A scarecrow water jet pack and its motion activated sprinkler is a very innovative way for you to take care of your flowers and vegetables and also will “add” to your decor in the sense that you will not have to opt for ugly fences or any other sort of unappealing methods.

When the water is shot, the scarecrow makes a loud noise which also helps to scare the animals away. An added bonus is that the animals associates this experience to the area so they are not likely to return.

A water scarecrow is really easy to set up, and with the best brand jet water spray deterrent listed above you can’t really go wrong. They are very economical to run and will help keep your garden decor at its best!

In Action:

**See also fox deterrents for gardens

Outdoor landscape looks great when you add lights to it. Yard lights serve not only to light up gardens and patios, but also any outdoor area you need to beautify or bring to attention. They add functionality when placed near your home or areas where you need to be able to see at night in your garden. When placed with thought and care, they can make your outdoor areas look really stunning.

The most common choice of yard lighting nowadays is with the use of solar lights. They are the option to go for if you want to save money as led lighting costs a bit more. In a similar way to solar tiki torches, solar lights can provide you with light during the night with the convenience of no switches that have to be turned on and off, no bulbs to replace and no electricity bill. The sensors tell the lights when is dusk or dawn so they can either take energy from the natural light or glow by themselves.

Garden yard lights are useful to beautify certain spots – courtesy of sxc.hu

Some people prefer to adorn their garden with low voltage yard lights to create a particular landscape lighting effect; they also don’t cost much in terms of electricity consumption and do the job as well. Another way to enhance your outdoor area with light is by the use of Christmas lights. Even though they are particularly manufactured for that time of the year, some people opt to have them on display all year round as they can look really beautiful. The thing to do if you want to keep your Christmas yard lights for longer period than the festive season, is to make sure you keep the amount of lights to a minimum and only light up the areas you want to enhance. Take the colored ones out and keep white as the choice of lighting.

With the use of the right yard lights you can enjoy your garden or patio area for a lot longer than usual. If you are looking into saving money as well as helping the environment, you can also consider installing solar patio lighting. For extra effect, add a couple of garden mirrors and succumb at the wonderful spectacle of illusion that will be created around you. And don’t forget that in the winter months it can get really dark during the day and you will probably be deprived of the use of most outdoor areas in general. The right garden lights can solve this problem easily and also add beauty to your favorite spots. The key is to get the ones that would both match and enhance your garden decor and to place them accordingly: you could add some of the yard lights around your swimming pool or pond, or around your garden decking, rock garden, surrounding the flowerbeds, underneath a statue or garden arch.

Change the mood and color according to the time of year or add glamour to any evening party. The yard lights will make it easy for your guests to enjoy the beauty of your garden at night.

When we think of a tiki torch our mind travels to exotic islands. Indeed, it has been their form of lighting for many years. No wonder so many people use them for outdoor decoration as much as solar garden lights. The torch provides the tropical feel while at the same time adding a wonderful touch to our garden decor.

Tiki torches are very popular with beach themed weddings. Sometimes you might need the torches for just that special occasion or decorating an event in particular. Easy and light to transport, you don’t need any type of electricity near the area so you are basically free to place them anywhere you please. They are also cheap to buy, which makes them even more attractive when thinking of our garden decoration.

A tiki torch consists of a base follows by a pole and flame-bearer at the very top. A wick absorbs oil at the bearer making it burn for quite a long time.

Materials – When it comes to materials, a favorite is the inexpensive bamboo tiki torch. While this hand-make look provides your garden with the island vibe and feel, you can also find them in ceramic, metal, glass, mosaic, stainless steel, brass or copper, but they will be more expensive. Tiki torch wicks are made of fiberglass or cotton and they work by being dipped in the chosen fuel.

Tiki Torch Fuel – Fuel types range from natural or propane gas to paraffin oil and electricity. Use citronella tiki torches if you want to repel the insects in your garden and add the same time let out nice fragrances. Gas tiki torches will burn non-stop, and are great for more windy areas –they don’t go out that easily – but you are compromising on the general ambience as they don’t have the glow and warmth bamboo ones do.

Add the Tropical Touch with a Tiki Torch – courtesy of sxc.hu

If you want your tiki torch for a special event or just to last you that summer, bamboo tiki torches are the ones to go for. For a more durable torch you should purchase metal ones. Ceramic torches are very delicate when it comes to handling – they can break easily – .

Safety – Be careful and never light your tiki torch indoors. When lighting them, be aware of what is around them and also of children being near you. Electric torches are safe for indoors, and although the look is not even close to the real thing, you can have peace of mind if there are children and pets around it.

Sizes and styles – Also think of sizes when buying the torches. Some of them can be attached to your decking rails, so there is no need to make holes on the grass. 15” to 20” ones are perfect to add around the pool and along the paths. Table tops are also available. Common higher torches look great scattered around the garden or patio.

Here is a summary on the different types of tiki torches:

Bamboo Tiki Torch – It will last about ten to twelve hours depending on the size of the fuel bearer. They don’t release burning bits of paper unlike wood torches.

Metal torches – Great for windy conditions and no release of burning bits of paper. They can be filled with gas or oil and will last you for as long as you keep refilling/substituting the fuel.

Electric torches – Hassle-free; light for as long as they are switched on, great if there are any pets or children around, can be used indoors.

An nice alternative for garden lighting is the solar tiki torch. They are quite new in the market but becoming increasingly popular. You can grab one for as little as $20, although they go up in price up to a few hundred. Cheap models tend to “glow in a more red” sort of color and are great to just add a touch of light here and there, while the more expensive ones give out a more white glow. The obvious advantages are the no-danger factor, no oil or gas that you would need to replace every so often, no switch-flipping and the fact that you just bury them and forget. They should last you a bit longer than the 5 to 10 hours it says on the package, but the light does dim considerably. But the main difference between the cheaper versions and more expensive ones lies really in the color of the glow. Be aware that in winter a solar tiki torch won’t be able to take much energy in due to the few hours of sunlight.

Outdoor wicker furniture is one of the best types of furniture you can get for your garden or patio. It is usually made of resin fibers, aluminum, steel frame, willow, cane, bamboo or rattan; all of them materials that can endure very heavy weather conditions. You can find all sorts of different wicker furniture; from tables and chairs, to sofas, side tables, benches, dinning sets, stools, decorative elements, serving carts, storage boxes, lighting, swings and gliders, trunks, rocking chairs and even bars. Place garden carts as decorative pots next to your furniture to add the whimsical look to your outdoor area.

We can divide the wicker garden furniture into two categories: the loom one consists of organic materials (like bamboo or rattan) and synthetic wicker outdoor furniture (fiber glass, resin, aluminum). Prices range from really inexpensive bamboo or rattan furniture to the much more expensive ones made of steel frame, aluminum or dearer types of wood like teak.

Whichever your choice, wicker furniture is fantastic as outdoor furniture for many different reasons. Here are a few:

Wear and Tear – You don’t have to worry about your furniture tearing like vinyl or canvas does. The materials have been woven in a tough way to undergo outdoor living and are much more durable. Scratches and chips free.

Clean – When it comes to stains it is very easy to clean your furniture. With canvas stains might be tough to get rid of. Polish and vacuum often to keep it up to scratch.

Light – Easy to move around if you fancy a different type of look in your garden or patio. Easy to stack for easy storage.

Variety – All sorts of shades to match with your garden decor. All the benefits listed above plus the added one of blending easily with nature due to the look and style.

Comfortable – Even though it has a “hard” look the fibers bend easily when sitting on the chairs or rocking chairs (check out rocking chair seat cushions for extra padding and comfort) or resting on the tables. The materials are quite soft and adaptable.

Survives extreme weather conditions – Coating has been applied to the furniture using multiple dipping process protecting it from rotting easily and at the same time repelling moisture.

Adaptable – When tired of the look of your furniture it is very easy to paint again in your favorite colors. Modernize every year with a couple of coats and it will never go out of fashion.

Wicker is Very Durable – courtesy of morguefile.com

Plastic sheds are a good option for storage; even though this furniture is durable and tough when it comes to all sorts of weather conditions, proper maintenance is always good practice.

As we can see, outdoor wicker patio furniture is the right choice for your patio or garden has all the benefits of being useful, decorative, versatile, light, comfortable, durable and very stylish.

By adding garden fencing to your outdoor areas you will not only get extra security but also improve the general aesthetic of your garden or patio. You can use the garden fence to separate spots where you grow certain vegetables or flowers, also protecting them from natural elements like wind. Gardens need structure; it is only natural that a garden will have different areas (or “rooms”) where all the different things are supposed to happen. There is the private corner where you like to seat and have tea or coffee, the bench under a garden arch for general viewing, the area which has been designed for walking and enjoying the flowerbeds and different plants, where any garden mirrors might have been placed, etc. Garden fences can help you divide all these interesting corners and bring certain spots to life while at the same time protecting others.

Materials

The most popular materials for building a garden fence would be wood, chain-link or wrought iron. When thinking of which material is the right for you and your garden decor, the best thing is to decide what is the purpose of your garden fencing. Is it for protection or just for decorative purposes. Maybe be you just want to divide the area between your garden or front/backyard from sidewalks and pavement. Chan link is helpful in terms of keeping your pets away from the area. They serve to “separate” one area from another, acting as an effective delimiter.

Garden Fence courtesy of sxc.hu

Wood is the perfect choice if you want added security. You can add your personal touch by painting the wood so it matches the surroundings. It looks good and blends in nicely with nature. Wooden fencing looks great with your outdoor wicker furniture. Create a wooden fence with a garden arch as the main door for the extra touch. Vinyl is also a popular choice and great if you are thinking of low-maintenance garden fencing. They are very easy to clean and do not fade or rust through time.

Wrought iron garden fencing can give you a lovely vintage you as well as the security needed. You can match it with iron benches and other metal furniture. For a great finish add a metal garden arch as the main door or an arbor gate combination. Why not also have a metal outdoor gazebo to match the look? There are lots of different types of metal garden fencing, mainly to do with the look of the metal ends. Choose something that blends both in height and style with your outdoor area.

When purchasing your materials ask the professionals for help if you find that setting up the fence yourself will be too tedious or difficult. Once they see the designated areas they can give you the best advice on how to set up and maintain your garden fence.

Outdoor garden and patio furniture comes in different materials: rattan, wood, fabric, aluminum, wrought iron, steel and resin. Resin patio furniture is inexpensive, very practical and comes in a great variety of models. From Italian origin, this particular type of furniture does not need any proper maintenance and you can find anything from tables, chairs (stacking and folding – check out resin Adirondack chairs for ultimate quality and style), sofas, strollers, swings and many other items.

The furniture that combine aluminum with resin is also usually of Italian origin, with aluminum pipe structure (anodized or painted) and seat-back plastic resin. The finish used is resin made of wood and metal. Models are usually the folding or stackable type, which makes them very popular for bars and terraces in Mediterranean countries.

By investing in this type of furniture you will not have to spend money every year due to damage caused by the weather. It is comfortable, made for tough use and resistant to the effects of nitrate and chlorine (or just the everyday splashes from regular or inflatable pools). With proper care and cleaning, you can enjoy your resin patio furniture for many years. When you buy your furniture, it should come with maintenance instructions. Do try to follow them as thoroughly as possible, you do want your new acquisition to last as long as possible. Resin furniture not only adds to your garden decor, but it is also one of the most comfortable types, and not only they do not deteriorate easily but is also pleasant to the touch. Try to purchase good quality resin, poor quality one will scratch easily and turn yellow over time.

Resin wicker patio furniture is made of natural fibers. Wicker is more malleable, but can fray badly if it is made of bone or cane. Bamboo and rattan are stronger but more on the expensive side. The advantage is that they support many types of different finishes. Things you have to watch with resin wicker patio furniture would be moisture, fungus and obviously the sun.

The way you take care of your resin outdoor patio furniture is very simple: simply rinse with clean water and allow to dry. Use a mild abrasive product to remove any scratches on the surface. Remove mildew with a mixture of 1 cup of bleach, 2 cups of detergent and a gallon of water.

Resin wicker patio furniture can be cleaned with a hose or pressure washer. Simply remove the cushions and hose away the dirt with water pressure. If the wicker is very dirty, use a sponge, mild soap and cold water for rinsing. Allow the furniture to dry completely and then apply wax to the frame to keep it shiny and waterproof. Some types of wicker, resistant to the weather, are much easier to maintain. Keep cushions indoors during the winter seasons and cover the frames when they are not in use.

Plastic resin patio furniture is definitely the best choice for your outdoor areas if you are looking for inexpensive and durable furniture.

A garden arch is a magnificent way of displaying plants, climbers and flowers and at the same time guide the person through certain parts within your garden that you prioritize over others.

Hard structures are as much part of your garden as the rest. Although you might find yourself concentrating on the look of horizontal linings, your hard structures will provide your garden with a certain personality and design. Consider statues or garden fencing for example. Many owners have made really big efforts making a fence look great as well as it being functional, and it is for certain that it adds great structure to your garden.

The Secret Garden – Wooden Garden Arches

If you want to add to your garden decor that “casual” look and feel, or you are into bringing to life corners that might not usually seem that appealing, consider building a wooden garden arch. It

The Beauty of a Garden Arch

doesn’t have to be a main focal point in the garden; the beauty of a small wooden arch is that it would enhance that “secret garden” chosen area, providing it with great contrast against the rest of the garden. Build a tiny fence around it to add to the look.

Metal Garden Arches

Huge contrast against wooden garden arches, metal might be a tad more difficult to “blend in”. Metal works really well with bricks in terms of looks and feel. As opposed to the wooden arch (which would work very well in a cottage-like home), metal garden arches can enhance an older home made with such bricks or field stones.

The garden archway will help you reveal certain areas or hide others. Sometimes it works wonders when you want to display open areas such as a wide lawns. Drama is added to the overall effect, and you should enhance that effect with the appropriate climbers. A garden arch also acts as an outdoor gazebo if you place side panels to it. There are a great selection of kits and ready-made-ones at many gardening stores. Take into account height and space, planning always against the desired results. When it comes to wooden garden arches it is important to purchase timber that has been treated. Once your climbers are all around it, it will be almost impossible to access the wood. For your metal arch look for a powder coated finish. Metal oxidizes and so when purchasing keep in mind that it will need re-painting every so often.

There is no doubt that walking through a garden arch gate is a beautiful experience when enjoying any given garden area. They add impact, texture and variety to the landscape design.

It is not difficult to come up with brilliant patio ideas if you have taken the time beforehand to plan your design carefully. In my patio design post, I spoke about different steps you have to take when coming up with patio design ideas and how it is good practice to sketch everything on paper before venturing into creating your patio. If you have used this approach considering the best options, you would have ended up with a patio that can easily adapt to new and wonderful ideas that might occur to you as the patio grows with the rest of the house.

We don’t always want exactly the same things. I find myself changing my taste and style every few years or so, and the same happens with things that surround us. I might be really happy with a patio that has a Spanish look and feel, only to find throughout the years that I really want a Japanese garden instead. There is nothing wrong with that, we just have to adjust to our changes and plan things accordingly.

There are great patio ideas and pictures on the internet you can look at for inspiration. Some people go really far and create fantastic “art pieces” when it comes to their patios or general garden decor. Whichever way you look at it, there is no doubt about the fact that having started with a good plan will always help you along when it comes to changes and new garden patio ideas.

Most people are afraid when it comes to changing the whole look of the patio or garden. It just entails too much work and worries in terms of design and the fear of the changes not really working in the end. When it comes to changes and new thoughts and inspiration, most people just want to give it a different look and freshness by moving pots around, adding a few pictures to the walls, changing or purchasing new patio furniture cushions or just adding a different furniture set in the shady corner. This is all good if you keep in mind that even the smallest changes need care and attention. You shouldn’t worry too much if you just want to add a touch, but don’t fall into the big mistake of having too much of everything within the one confined area. As with any patio design, if you are going for a particular style just stick with it, don’t mix and match as it very rarely works! (unless you are a professional designer and you know exactly what you are doing).

For an array of “touches” you can play around with elements that already sit on your patio. This is fairly easy to do, it doesn’t take time and you can add or subtract until you achieve the desired results.

For a marine look, all you have to do is add a few seashells, sand and pebbles around your patio. Scatter them by the pots, hang a few paintings on the walls that enhances the theme (ships, the seashore), find old elements that help reinforce the theme like ornamental anchors and you are pretty much all set.

By nature and history, patios have a Latin feel. If you want a hybrid patio (for example one that mixes the Latin or Spanish feel with the British touch) buy a few different teapots and arrange them nicely on the shelves. Grow roses, tulips and daffodils on your pots, mix bits of old pine, teak and oak furniture and be sure to enjoy your tea and biscuits at 5!

Swings, pergolas and any patio heaters or umbrellas can be adorned with climbing plants. Arrange pots together in different corners of your patio if they have been on display on the same spots for a long period of time. For deck patio ideas “take your living room outside” by arranging sofas and chairs thus extending your living area. Add a couple of spots lights, or, for an even warmer feel, arrange two or three old looking lamps on small wooden tables next to your sofas. Add a shelf that displays some of your favorite books. But do make sure you do live that area as much as possible if the overall intention was to have your patio as an extension of your home.

One of Many Great Patio Ideas / courtesy of sxc.hu

I wouldn’t advice that you change the patio slabs if you just want to add a different touch or style with this outdoor area. It entails a lot of work and it might be too tedious – and expensive – for what you are looking for. Instead, bring your garden closer to your patio by adding planted edgings in between but make sure you create divisions as the garden and the patio are two different areas and should not be mixed creating confusion to the eye.

Water features are a great addition to any patio. Unless heavily masked by planting, water strongly emphasizes the exact form by which it is contained. Study your patio and find out the exact areas where an informal pool or water feature would fit to perfection. These are great features and also give us precise focal points (which are great if you want to bring to life certain areas that looked dull before).

Another great addition if you want to enhance a certain area is statues. Be careful if your patio is small, you don’t want the statue to overtake the whole place. Urns are also very decorative.

Tiles on walls, wicker baskets, dry red chili strings hanging from the roof, great patio covers like the beautiful lattice, patio sets, wooden archways, hanging basket chairs, rattan furniture, potted plants, decorative tablecloths, outdoor led lighting or just patio lighting, umbrellas, hammocks, etc if carefully chosen can add to the patio the special charm you are looking for.

Great outdoor patio ideas come with time and experience. Don’t panic over the prospect of starting a new design, or changing an existing one. With a bit of time, careful planning, thoughtful elements and a little imagination you can give your patio the feel you want to achieve with next to no effort.

Your patio design needs to be planned like any garden design: with lots of thought and care. Designing a patio is not just about making the patio look good; you need your design to flow in terms of both the style and convenience.

When it comes to the look, we should take the trouble to pay lots of attention to detail and decoration – anything from patio slabs to planting down to the smallest corner. Patios can have roofs or be in the open like any backyard or garden and can be designed with many changes of level and decorated with fountains and statues. When it comes to convenience, a good patio design should always think of keeping the functionality and/or simplicity it needs. Let’s think of patios as your favorite outdoor rooms.

What we are saying, really, is that when it comes to designing your patio you should be considering it as much as you would your garden decor. With the patio we replace the grass for patio slabs and the plants would generally grown in confined but well thought of spaces. If we are going to make the most of our patio, we need the designs to be carefully crafted in terms of the style, comfort and convenience.

The aspect of the patio is one of the vital components to take into account when making your plans and all those patio design ideas come flooding to your head. There is no point in creating an exotic sunbathing terrace in a position that hardly ever receives the sun. Convention has it that the patio is right behind the house, but does it have to be? In a small plot, this may be the only option and, here, its aspect will, to some extent, dictate its function.

When thinking of different patio designs think carefully about access if you are going to create an outdoor room next to your living room. The wider and more accessible the doorway is, the easier it becomes to use the patio, and the easier it is to provide a harmonious link between the outdoor and indoor rooms. Obvious links, such as flooring materials or color schemes, can be supplemented by using blending or matching furnishings.

The best patio design ideas come when you draw your plans on paper before you execute any of them. Study the situation first. Is your patio going to be near the kitchen, at the front of the house or as an enclosed area within your backyard. Is it a porch styled patio or a Spanish one? Once you design everything on paper, you can start moving things around, creating the planting area here or there, adding visual elements like pots, statues or ponds.

An important point to bear in mind when studying your outdoor patio designs is to think where will you have the most privacy. Although it may not worry you that you are overlooked by neighbors, if you want to create the impression of an outdoor room, some screening will be useful. It does not have to be a solid wall; trellis or even rigid plastic netting covered with climbers gives the illusion of privacy without shutting sunlight out of the garden.

A problem you might encounter when designing your patio is that it might offer too man possibilities for you to decide on, but if you think of it as an outdoor room, you begin to get the problem in perspective. Ideally, it should be as useful, as comfortably as any room indoors – and probably more attractive than the rooms in the house.

It is all very good that you come up with a really fascinating patio design that look amazing on paper. But it is important to point out that the most common mistake made by beginners when designing their patios is either to copy examples that don’t suite the size and style of their outdoor areas or that they try to have a little bit of everything therefore defying what could have been a unique and original style.

When it comes to patio designs – or any other design for that matter – think carefully about the function and likely use of the area and give it a style that fits into an overall theme. By following these simple rules can’t really go wrong with your patio design.

Planning on getting a gazebo tent for your garden? We have looked at the all popular pop up gazebo, and a gazebo tent is not much different. It is basically the same concept, only that you can get a huge gazebo tent that caters for literally thousands of people if you wished to do so.

There is a lot more work involved setting up these gazebo tents, but the shelter they provide is priceless. You can enjoy your garden without having to worry so much about insect stings, strong winds or rain. They have proven to be increasingly popular with people that regard their gardens highly. They can be erected anywhere in your garden as long as you have the room for it. Tents and gazebos are great for anyone who wants to make the most out of being outdoors as long as they pretty much wish.

Gazebo tents are not only used for big events (yes, a circus is held under a giant gazebo tent!). Smaller versions are great for also smaller events you might want to throw around your garden. You can find them in different sizes. Let’s have a look at two very popular gazebo tents in the market:

10 x 30 White Party Tent Gazebo Canopy With Sidewalls

Gazebo Tent

This is a fairly big gazebo but still small enough to fit in almost any garden. It can hold up to 50 people, and it should not be that difficult to set up. They are usually high quality with frames made out of steel (the frames are also quite wide, ranging from 75” to 1.0”). Instructions should come with the gazebo tent but don’t be shy to ask any questions you may have at the store when you buy it (or if it is online DO CHECK that it comes with the relevant instructions!).

They are fantastic to block the sun out which is imperative if you have children running around. The beauty of a garden gazebo tent is that it is not just for your garden! Take it with you if you’re going camping with a bunch of friends, or set it up to host a wedding reception.

You can also remove the sidewalls for any sort of outdoor event. This gazebo tent usually comes with six of these sidewalls (with windows attached to get as much light through as possible). As with the pop up gazebo, you should not leave it outdoors overnight or when the winds are too strong.

10 x 20 White Party Tent Gazebo Canopy With Sidewalls

Same principals as with the 10 x 30 gazebo; this size caters for 30 people and comes with 4 sidewalls instead of 6. It is also a lot cheaper, usually around half the price. Do check around to get all the needed information.

It is recommended with both gazebo tents to set them up with at least four people.

If you are looking for something smaller, you might want to consider the 10 x 10 white party tent gazebo canopy with sidewalls –

Same rules apply regarding heavy rains and strong winds. Also, do not leave it outside overnight.

The Ozark Trail Hanging Tent Gazebo

Ozark Trail Hanging Tent Gazebo

The ozark trail hanging tent gazebo is smaller than the gazebo tents featured above but also substantially bigger than an ordinary tent. The beauty of it is that once inside you don’t have to bend or be in the middle in order to stand up. They are really spacious, can sleep up to five people and caters for two queen size mattresses. In cold winter days, place an army sleeping bag for extra comfort and warmth.

Whatever your choice of outdoor gazebo tent, it is a great addition to your garden decor – from its recreational use to most types of open-air events!

So, you have been thinking about getting yourself a pop up gazebo to add to your garden decor?  You’ve come to the right place! Here we will look at the things you should consider when buying a pop up gazebo, as well as types available on the market so you can have a look at what best suits your particular needs.

Pop up gazebos are a must if you want to make the most out of being outside in the patio or garden. They provide you with shelter and help make your outdoor experience much more joyful and last a lot longer. These types of gazebos have originated in the UK, they are very easy to erect and also easy on the pocket too! They “literally” pop up in a matter of minutes (some claim less than 1 minute!), as they have been built within a concertina style frame. Basically, you only have to worry if you should place it around the garden decking, patio, front yard or even as good protection to the paddling pool.  Whichever the use, your pop up gazebo will stand up on its own without any effort on your part or your family in no time!

You are not just limited to your garden when erecting your pop up gazebo. They are really light so you can also take them with you if you go camping, to friend’s parties, weddings, picnics, the beach and any other social event. Think also about getting outdoor furniture like plastic or light wooden tables and resin chairs.

Now, the obvious question would be: how much are you willing to spend for your new pop up gazebo? As with almost anything, if you buy cheap you end up paying more for it. You can get a cheap pop up gazebo but it will not last you more than the first summer. So take that in mind before venturing into any purchase. Many people consider buying the best camping tents when it comes to experiencing nature outdoors and with pop-up gazebos it should be no different.

The next thing to consider is what exactly is the purpose of your gazebo. Are you setting up a wedding reception in your garden or are you thinking more in terms of you and your partner enjoying a romantic meal together… What you have to look at is the size you really need.

The very simple pop up gazebos are generally square and they contain a roof made of polyester which is usually comes in green or white. These types of models measure around 3x3m and are made of poles that screw together. They are great pop up gazebos if you want to improvise an evening in your garden or patio.

Pop Up Gazebo

Pop up gazebos are usually made of three different materials: plastic, steel or aluminum.

Remember what I said before about your gazebo not lasting you a whole summer? That will most probably happen if you go for the plastic option. Some people do need a gazebo for a one off though or just a few times during the summer. There is where the plastic pop up gazebo does the job really well. But if you want a long lasting gazebo make sure you get the one made of steel or aluminum. What is the main difference between the two and which one should you get?

The aluminum pop up gazebo is well known for being stronger and more durable. Obviously that also makes it more expensive. Also, if you wanted to get a hold of one you need to check in more “specialized” shops and stores – be aware of buying these types over the internet as it is possible you are getting a steel gazebo that has been powder coated rather than the real thing itself.

Ok, that leaves us with the steel pop up gazebos. They are light and strong; probably not as strong as aluminum

Pop Up Gazebo With Sides

ones but they still do the job nicely for an affordable price and are a lot more solid and secure than plastic ones. If you decide to go for this option make sure you take good care of it by not leaving it outside in heavy rainy days or when it is really windy.

Whatever type of pop up gazebo you go for, it is always advisable that you add weight to each pole in order to keep them steady.

Pop up gazebos with side panels are very popular. They also usually come in 3x3m, which is an ideal size for many different types of occasions. Some come with plastic windows incorporated to make the enclosure a bit more airy. As with any of the pop up gazebos, they require very little time to erect as well as collapse.

Summary – when buying your pop up gazebo you should consider the following:

- If you want a long lasting pop up gazebo go for the dearer option of a heavy duty one.

- Steel or aluminum will do nicely; an aluminum pop up gazebo will be very durable and also more expensive but it will last you a lot longer.

- A plastic pop up gazebo is fine for the odd occasion or if you just needed it only a few times during the season. Don’t get allured by the cheap price; it will cost you more in the end if you wanted it to last you more than one summer!

- If you go for the steel option make sure to take good care of it so it can last you longer. Don’t leave it outside when the weather is bad.

- Put weight on the poles to make your gazebo sturdier.

- You might want to go for the popular pop up gazebo with side panels which also comes with “fitted” windows. They are great for outdoor parties, barbecues, etc.

- The most popular gazebo size is 3×3 meters and about 260 cm height.

- Usually there are no parts to assemble together and no need for tools to set them up.

So, what are you waiting for? Ready to enjoy your new pop up gazebo? I hope so, as it is well worth it!

Garden Decking has definitely become increasingly popular over the last few years. People with large gardens seek for a garden deck as it becomes an extension of their home. It is a great feature weather you want it for sunbathing, entertaining your friends and family, eating “al fresco” or having a peaceful time outside the house. Garden decking will also bring your house and garden together and adds great value to your beloved home.

When thinking about your garden decking design you have to choose the right material. Most people tend to go for the wood option while others prefer to create a patio or to use bricks or concrete and place the wood over the top. Other choices are composite decking and vinyl. Think of the weather conditions as part of your planning before venturing into the task of building your garden deck. Ask the professionals if necessary, as they will be able to cover all aspects of any question you may have.

If, on the other hand, you want to build it yourself, there are certain – basic – things you will want to consider:

- Choose the location carefully. Patio deck or a garden deck attached to the living room or kitchen?

- Garden decks come in various materials. Choose accordingly to your garden decor, needs and taste.

- Decide on your deck size. Small house? Small deck. Simple. Don’t overdo it!

- Keep in mind any outdoor patio furniture you might already have when planning the structure and look of your new garden decking.

- Keep it simple. There are literally lots of books online written by professionals that will guide you step by step.

- Check online for different garden decking designs; it is always helpful to see what other people go for.

- Do you need more than one area? You could add different levels; an area for sunbathing and a different one for dining.

- Don’t over look the legal side: again, ask the professionals to find out if the area you are planning to build in meets the right requirements.

Garden Decking

Once you get those garden decking ideas popping into your head it is only a matter of time until your glorious deck is build and ready to be enjoyed by the family. But, that is not the end of your garden decking adventure…

…you will have to take good care of your deck and add other elements to it.

The same way you take care of your garden decor, your will need to think of other garden decking things you might need like appropriate furniture, garden lights, kits, etc.  Go to your nearest DIY shop and have a look around, as you can enhance your garden decking experience with many different things. What about one of those wonderful hot tubs for those extra-special romantic evenings?

Garden Decking Designs

Clean it regularly; take especial care of the algae that grows around it. Also, check screws and bolts very periodically. Sometimes it will be necessary to replace some of the wooden boards. Don’t leave it till it is too late, and use a good water repellent to stop your garden deck from going moldy, cracking or splitting.

Once your garden deck is built, you would have added invaluable new meaning to your garden landscape!

**You might want to consider the benefits of a patio heater for your garden decking.