Brought to you by IXL.

After what seems like a very long winter, summer is just around the corner and we couldn’t be more excited to get outside, spend time with friends and family and start using our outdoor spaces once again!

That first balmy night when you go out onto your deck to start up the bbq, you may notice that your outdoor area has been a little neglected over the cooler months… so let’s get your garden ready for those summer days and nights with these top tips:

Shelter

Having a source of shelter from the sun is always important and depending on where you live you may need more than others. Look into options such as a canopy that can wind down when you need it, louvers that can open and close on the roof of your entertaining space, and even the humble umbrella can not only save you from the heat while you’re enjoying your lunch, it can also be a super gorgeous and fun addition to your backyard styling.

Install a multi function Heater/ lights

When those summery nights full of friends and drinks extend later than expected it’s great to have outdoor lighting and a heater to turn on when you start to feel the chill in the air. The IXL multi function Fresco Aurora Outdoor Heater is an outdoor entertaining appliance like no other. The app controlled Fresco Aurora combines ambient infrared heat, dimmable task lighting and mood lighting in one stylish unit. It has been designed to be suspended from flat or gabled roofs and is ideal for external dining areas, verandas and balconies that will transform your outdoors into a cosy ambient space - all year round.

Add some summer fun with decor items

Add a pop of colour and some summer fun into your outdoor space by using soft furnishings and decor items. Use outdoor cushions on your furniture, string up some festoon lighting, use statement pots and plants to add personality and if you’re up for it, you could even paint your fence/verandah/pergola for a fresh new look.

Outdoor furniture

Having comfortable outdoor furniture is a must if you spend a lot of time outdoors in the warmer months. If you’re an ‘entertainer’ think about how you like your guests to spend their time at your house, are you a long lunch/dinner type or a lounging in the garden type? If you enjoy relaxing and reading your book, look into a modern take on the sun lounger. There are so many gorgeous options for outdoor furniture in all shapes, sizes and price brackets.

Update your plants

Has your garden maintenance dropped a little over the winter months and your normally lush and green garden is looking a little sad and worse for wear? Now the weather has turned it’s time to get out there and start bringing it back to life! Start by weeding, pruning, mulching and fertilising your existing plants and they will happily spring back to life. Next, head down to your local nursery and pick up a few extra plants to fill in the gaps and make it feel lush. And the next step for the ultimate garden transformation is to add additional greenery in the form of pots, planters and hanging plants. By using movable planting solutions you can easily bring the greenery up onto your deck/verandah/balcony which will positively change how your space feels and make you feel as though you live in a tropical oasis!