Place needed to go outside and enjoy nature
I want to do something special for my best friend who has been there for my kids and I. He has COPD and he loves the outdoors but can't get out much.
I would love to make his backyard a place where he can go to and relax.
Design by A Garden Guy Inc.
Expert: Matt Mlynski, owner, www.agardenguylandscaping.com.
I find the most comforting backyards are enjoyable at all times of the day. To achieve this, shade is so important. Sitting in shade obviously makes for a more pleasurable experience, but it also creates a sense of privacy. The challenge here is finding trees that can grow really fast, or being creative in achieving shade using something other than trees.
Budget: $5,000-$8,000
Suggestions
• I would start by planting a few deciduous trees a few feet away from the fence on the south side of the yard. Options such as an Autumn Blaze maple or flowering pear tree would be great. Both of these trees grow rather quickly and offer amazing seasonal colors.
• Then supplement shade with a yard umbrella or pergola. The yard umbrella might be more economical and the offset variety makes it very adaptable to any seating configuration.
• Speaking of seating areas! A small 12-square-foot paver patio would be the perfect size for someone to sit and enjoy the outdoors. Brick pavers offer a variety of styles and colors that add an element of design to any yard. It also offers the opportunity to later expand with additional hardscape features (seat wall, pillars, etc.).
• Next, the yard needs plants. I would concentrate most of the plants around the patio itself. Create curved beds around the patio that can be filled with grasses and perennials. Pollinating perennials attract interesting birds and butterflies, which will help the owner feel more connected to the outdoors. Perennials such as butterfly bush, bee balm, coneflowers, beard tongue and garden phlox would all be excellent choices. The great thing about perennials is they are a cost effective way to add a variety of landscape interest without breaking the bank.
• Finally, add some new sod and fresh mulch and the area is ready to be enjoyed. All that is left is some food, drinks and good company. Enjoy!