Extend your outdoor living season with inviting and affordable upgrades for your deck, patio and lawn.
Great Backyards II
LANDSCAPING Do’s & Don’ts • LANDSCAPE DESIGNER JEAN MARSH SHARES STRATEGIES THAT SAVE YOU TIME AND MONEY.
never-say-die perennials • These sun- and shade-loving overachievers will increase your chances of enjoying beautiful blooms year after year.
decked out • Hooked onto the house or set into your yard, a deck instantly feels like that bonus room you’ve been craving.
potscaping • Bring your porch, patio or garden to vibrant life in minutes with pretty planters, baskets and windowboxes.
POTTED PERFECTION • Mix up plants with different forms and sizes to get a deliciously diverse look.
RUB-A-DUB-DUB, PLANT UP A TUB • Old tubs, sinks and basins work well outside—they’re large, weatherproof and unexpected. Here’s how to create an attention-grabbing display.
before&after • A bare backyard is planned and planted to bloom into a destination.
FIND YOUR STYLE: dream patios • From simple to sublime, inventive ways to dress up your place in the sun.
IT’S CRUNCH TIME • On patios and pathways, gravel adds affordable, old-world charm and a pleasing sound underfoot.
LIT-UP LOUNGE • When the sun goes down and the weather’s still nice, with a little light, there’s no need to call it a night.
GARDEN TO TABLE • Plant a raised bed with flowers and edibles, and then serve some of your harvest on a flip-up bar.
BACKYARD CINEMA • Get together with friends and neighbors for a backyard movie night under the stars.
Problem Solved • Combat common challenges with these smart solutions.
sprouting YOUNG gardeners • ENCOURAGE FAMILY FUN BY PLANNING AND PLANTING A KID-FRIENDLY PLOT.
Know Your Zone • Learn how to follow this climate chart.
warm up It by the fire • It only takes an afternoon to add mesmerizing beauty, warmth and light to the landscape.