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 torch candle 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 lighting 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

As small children wind spinners probably always held some fascination for you. One of the things you could always ask the Grandparents was how to make a wind spinner because they always knew how to make everything out of nothing in the way that your parents never could. You have probably spent many an hour with old washing up liquid bottles making plastic garden wind spinners. They probably never worked that well though and nowadays kids have such high standards they probably want high precision iron stop wind spinners, rather than the do it yourself versions of yesteryear.

Modern Technology

Whatever garden windmills you are looking for, the modern 3D take on the classic wind spinner will almost certainly surprise and delight you, the range available is highly sophisticated technology combined with unique art. Look at Iron Stop for some top of the range twisters to really amaze and delight you. Don’t stop there though; read on for other stockists that I feel will really challenge your concept of this humble garden ornament, which is basically one of the best garden decor ideas in terms of simplicity.

Metal Wind Spinners

The metal wind spinner is a highly developed example of modern research and development and an integral part of your garden art, as well as a good way to keep birds off your seedlings copper wind spinners glinting in the sun as they catch the breeze and twist around provide hours of mesmerising fascination. Nothing captures the imagination of a small boy like a 12” stainless steel dragon wind spinner and most men are small boys at heart and like to really make a go of it by adding a wind spinner motor so even on the stillest day they can recapture the thrill of the playground whirlygig. The girls probably prefer the twisters or the metal wind chimes as they tinkle in the breeze and make music that carries on the wind and seems to suggest the sound of fairies tinkling laughter as they clear up after the secret garden party

Rust Free

The beauty of the modern day technology is you no longer have to put up with rust on your garden ornaments if you choose to pay a little more at the outset. Stainless steel is really the best choice or take a look at Whirlygigs for some great ideas made of wood, birds or insects for example that whirl and turn on a pivot. Again all the metal parts are brass or stainless steel. Garden decor should reflect your personality so do not be afraid to place your favourite likes in your garden. Cool is being you and not going with the trend but finding something you like. Why not check out QVC for all those chimes and see what is out there to compliment your individuality. While you’re at it have a look at Suntwirlers who do an amazing range of designs which really are unique and stunning masterpieces personally created by artists in high quality stainless steel. If you are looking for a .wholesale supplier this is most certainly the place for you.

Photo by celluxmag **Courtesy of sxc.hu

If you can remember sitting on the doorstep with your Grandma shelling peas you will probably want to know how to grow peas in a garden to enable you to recreate that wonderful experience of shelling peas, followed by the taste of freshly harvested peas served with your evening meal. You probably remember the taste of peas straight from the pod, such sweet delicate flavours really do not come out of the freezer.

Choose the Area Carefully

So how to grow a garden complete with garden peas is the question you will want answering. It is best to choose a sunny area, although peas can manage in partial shade, particularly if the shaded time is during the hottest part of the day. Be careful of wind as peas can grow to over 6 feet tall and if exposed to high winds they can be damaged. Do not be tempted to plant near walls or fences though, you may get the wind protection but as Peas like moisture it is not the best place for them.

Peas will grow on most types of soil; an organic material medium well-dug into soil is a good start. Do not add nitrogen as peas get nitrogen from the air. An over-rich soil will just give you lots of leaf and a reduced pea crop. Mange tout are treated in the same way as peas so whatever variety you select the basic principles are the same, but you will not have the pleasure of shelling mange tout of course as you eat the whole thing. You can however grow them side by side to ensure variety at dinner.

How Long do Peas Take to Grow?

If you are wondering how long does it take to grow peas, they take only 12-15 weeks from planting to harvest so to ensure a constant harvest from June to September you will need to plant out your seeds from March to June. Use a range of different varieties not only to experience the taste, but to see if one particular variety is more successful as then next year you can make this your main focus, or concentrate more heavily on perfecting the weaker strains to promote a healthier harvest.

To harvest earlier crops you will need to plant under supported plastic or cloches and you will need to cover the soil about a moth before the peas are sown to ensure the bed is warm enough then keep them covered until all danger of frost has passed. So you see the basics of how to grow peas in a garden are not that difficult. Choose your spot with care, fertilise and dig well then plant and water to enjoy a quick return.

Photo by jana_koll **Courtesy of sxc.hu

If you have an outdoor space maybe a patio or yard have you considered garden urns to introduce some greenery and give the area some personality and style? Garden urns and planters can turn the blandest areas into a lovely relaxing spot where you can relax and enjoy the outdoors. Even a balcony from benefit from well placed garden decor ideas. Don’t limit yourself to traditional concepts as flower pots are effective contemporary garden art; also look around for new ideas such as pet urns to introduce a novelty factor to your area.

Looks Can Be Deceiving

Often when you look at pots in stores such as Horchow you wonder how you will get them home because they look so substantial. You also think they will weigh so much that when filled with earth and plants they will be a permanent fixture in your garden. You may want fixed lawn urns, but you probably want to move your large plant filled vases around the patio. Don’t be put off by the fact it looks heavy as looks can be deceiving, take the time and care to read exactly what you are buying as often decorative urns are made of much lighter materials like resin or fibreglass. Whilst the materials are robust enough for all year round outdoor use and strong enough for the purpose they are made they really are patio ideas you can easily manage.

Cast Iron

Cast iron garden urns are a staunch favourite amongst gardeners and they are much more suited to a permanent place in the garden and like wrought iron urns need to have a place where they can stand resplendent and command the situation they are in. However for most occasions containers can be plastic or lightweight look a likes.

Make the Correct Choice

Large garden urns are impressive and if you want a palm or other large structural plant the choice of planters on the market are many and varied look pop on line and look at Lowes for a wealth of information advice and products to ensure you make the correct choices for your outdoor space. It is important any new addition will compliment your existing garden decor. You may have outdoor wall art or railings in a Victorian style and wish to maintain the theme with a Victorian garden urn.

Fashions change, but it is not always necessary to replace all your costly items. Consider bringing in a more modern concept, such as popping garden mirrors strategically around to throw a new light on existing items or considering garden fountains to bring in a water feature. If you want something a little different try searching on garden urns UK if you live in the USA to see what ideas you can glean, and of course vice versa to see what the trends in other parts of the world are. Places like Amazon are great to look at in order to get ideas or purchase your desired urn; either .co.uk or .com will give you a wide range of options and great ideas to integrate into your garden decor no matter where you live. Check out eBay also for great prices but stock will vary literally every day.

Integrate Elements into the Scheme

Contemporary bird baths and other garden sculptures can be easily integrated into a scheme with a little thought and planning. Have you ever considered garden clocks as outdoor features? They withstand the weather and make sure you can have the very last moment outdoors enjoying the garden.

Always look in the sale section to see if there is any discount garden urns available as if we manage to get just one thing cheap, it leaves us more to spend on other purchases.

Photo by Mouse **Cortesy of flickr.com

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

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 Poetry**Cortesy of flickr.com

Despite having done all the necessary reading and having watched all the TV programes on how to revamp and care for your garden, you will probably be looking through the yellow pages to find out what gardening services are available to you. We all want to bring the outside in and enjoy what nature has to offer and the rise of the TV gardener has upped our expectations and interest in our outside space. Low maintenance gardens can be constructed and obviously a small garden is much more manageable than a large rambling area however generally gardens do not care for themselves and will need a fair amount of input if they are inherited.

Research Locally

Research all gardening services to see what is on offer locally; it could be you require a specialist area such as a tree surgeon, or the local retired man who is a self taught gardener could be the solution you require. The rewards of planting your seeds and going through the stages of transplanting seedlings and nurturing your garden to reap the harvest are many, but results take time. Patience and trial and error are more than often the best ways to learn so don’t be afraid to ask neighbours and friends for useful tips to get you going.

You will have ideas about what areas of your garden you can manage and what you feel you need a gardening service for, it could just be want the best organic fertilisers and weed and pest control for your vegetable patch and need advice and information.

Books

A great book for any organic gardener is Gwydion’s Moon Planting Guide. It is a fascinating and useful read for the organic gardener; showing how to plant and sow at the right time in the lunar cycle by making use of light and other factors to maximise effects for all crops and other plants. The book teaches a genuine and ancient skill that has a scientific basis.

Landscaping

It could be you require garden services for landscaping this is an area often best left to the professional landscaper. Remember when planning your garden design that you need to consider lots of things, light and shade being crucial to your planting strategy. Ongoing garden maintenance is an important factor, it may be worth spending a little more on the initial outlay to ensure that your garden is manageable once it is completed. Also don’t forget gardening products from compost or fertilisers to peat, you will need to feed and plant your garden if you want the best results. All these aspects of you garden should all be considered by garden service suppliers so do not be afraid to ask questions.

Lawn care in itself can be a whole area that requires VIP status, so when considering a large lawn area factor in prices for all the tools you require. It could be you are planning to treat yourself to a ride on mower, check out second hand versions as this may be a more affordable approach. You can also get grass cutting as part of the gardening services, particularly useful if you have a paddock or a wild overgrown lawn or meadow that is out of hand or has been neglected.

Photo by Randy Son Of Robert**Cortesy of flicr.com – Creative Commons

Gardens ARE extensions of our homes. We must take care of our garden decor at all times as gardens have become over the decades an important part of our homes. There are all sorts of garden decorations for you to take into account; the best way is to create a theme and add accordingly – birdhouses, garden wall decor, benches, ponds, statues, etc – and yes, even one little flower in the corner of your lawn counts for that ultimate great look!! You must take care of your lawn as it should always look neat and tidy. If you own a large garden, why not try a ride on mower? A John Deere ride on lawn mower is one worth checking out.

Let’s have a look at some of the most popular themes:

English Garden

My favorite is the English Garden Rose. It has become increasingly popular in the last few years. The British style gives your outdoor garden decor a definitely panache; it has a very elegant style but is also extremely simple to create (as long as you take good care of the flowers which can be very time consuming). Even though roses are my all time favorite, we can’t forget how the Brits mix them nicely with potentillas, geraniums, daisies, dandelions, daffodils, heather, lupin, pansies and primulas.

If you are looking for a cheap garden decor an English garden might be the answer for you. Still, you will have to spend quite a lot of time taking care of these beautiful flowers whether you opt for a rose garden or a mix of different ones.

Japanese Garden

Yes, I know, very elegant, beautiful, simple, eye-catching, and… not that easy to create! Some refer to it as a type of whimsical garden decor. It is fascinating spending time creating a delightful Japanese Garden, and certain features are a must, like bamboo fountains, a tea house, beautiful stone lanterns and moss. These particular outdoor garden decorations will add nicely to your Japanese theme.

Mediterranean Garden

I’m thinking tomatoes, peppers, aromatic herbs, olive trees, lots of vibrant colors, and of course Spain and Italy! The Mediterranean garden is indeed a very beautiful one. If you live in a hot area this type of garden will “take good care of itself” For your outdoor garden decor you will need nice colorful pottery (majolican pots works really, really well), a nice garden statue, a couple of benches and lots of beautiful “helechos” (fern)

Ever thought of a “Junk Garden” theme?

Yep, you guessed it; this is the type of home and garden decor for someone who really can’t afford to spend a lot of money. It works wonderfully well, as you “design as you go”, adding bits and pieces using your creativity and imagination. Also you can look at it as a way of “recycling” different objects by placing them scattered around your garden or patio. What I like the most about these so called “junk gardens” is the element of surprise! Remember you can be as free, bold and unique as you like when it comes to your garden décor.

Whatever your choice, from the lovely warm and romantic English rose garden to the more intrinsic Japanese one, you will become a garden designer from the very first moment you decide to work on your garden decor. And if you find it too overwhelming, don’t hesitate to hire a professional. They will help you out assessing the possibilities and make it a lot easier for you!

Photo by Martin_Heigan **Cortesy of flickr.com – Creative Commons

Photo by Gavin Anderson **Cortesy of flickr.com – Creative Commons

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.

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, such as 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. 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.

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 family gathering 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.