4 Ways to a Clean Garden
A clean garden? It may sound like an oxymoron, but we think it can be done! And don’t worry, we’re not talking about a sterile concrete garden void of swings, pools and flowers. Our clean garden is just a typical backyard paradise with a few modifications to keep the dirt where the dirt should be, and any necessary tools and accessories hidden from sight. Neat and tidy but fully functional for active play and full relaxation!
Ground Cover
Grass is a natural outdoor carpet, soft underfoot and a great barrier from the dirt underneath. A well-groomed lawn is a great asset to the clean garden (keeping shoes and feet free of dirt). Creeping thyme, micro clover and white clover are also great alternatives to grass. But when it comes to the areas where we eat, a solid floor can be preferable. A sturdy deck or paving stones makes for easy clean up and comfortable dining.
Paths and Stepping Stones
Access to outdoor space is glorious in all types of weather. So much so that we tend to use every square inch – a hammock in one corner, a hot tub in another, a place for patio furniture, or a fountain, a bird bath or a simple bird feeder nestled among some lilac bushes. The backyard is a multi-purpose space. The key is to find ways to connect these highlights with paths and stepping stones that can be swept free of dirt and debris that can be tracked inside your home.
Hidden Storage Solutions
Bins for stashing outdoor chair pillows is a definite must-have in any clean garden. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be found at any local gardening shop or anywhere patio furniture is sold. Just be sure they’re water-tight to avoid pillows getting wet and mildew to grow. Looking to hide that unsightly roll of hose? Ingenious containers can be bought that will virtually hide your hose among the plants, while keeping it well organized and clean.
A Shed
Whether big or small, every garden needs a supply hub. Somewhere garden tools can be well maintained. Important items like a lawnmower, leaf blower, edge trimmer, shovels, rakes, and unused garden pots, not to mention pool equipment and toys, need to be kept safe and dry. But the garden shed can be used for so much more than just storage, add a table and a bench and you have a potting shed.
Image by Barry D from Pixabay.
