It’s easy to get the blues about spending time outdoors in winter. With plants dormant through the colder months and flowering colour minimal it’s no wonder grey skies can throw a long shadow over the garden.
But it’s easy to trick up an outdoor space with bright and cheery garden decor that won’t break the budget or challenge the DIY in our DNA.
A visit to your local nursery, garden section at a hardware store or favourite retail store that sells garden decor should fill you with inspiration.
Pots - new or existing - can be filled with seasonal vegetables or flowers. If you are feeling crafty, paint a plain pot with splash of colour or wrap it in twine or rope for a nautical look.
Encourage native birds to visit with decorative bird feeders hung from trees or a balcony. A bird bath will equally entice feather visitors.
Wall ornaments, a statue, garden clock or water feature can add character to any existing garden theme. When choosing statues or ornaments keep in mind the style of your garden, your budget, any maintenance requirements and the size of the new piece in relation to existing space. A fountain with the pleasing sound of flowing water will provide a relaxing atmosphere, but ensure you follow guidelines for installing such a feature.
Garden lighting is easy to install as a DIY project and can add some drama to an outdoor space. Add solar lights along garden paths to lighten the way, hang fairy lights from a pergola or favourite tree or use wall or floor lights to illuminate a feature or living space.
For added atmosphere, hang a decorative lantern and light some candles. with comfortable seatng in place, sit back and enjoy your winter oasis.