Summer is finally here, bringing warm weekends full of perfect outdoor parties. Whether you’re gathering by the grill or partying by the pool, a backyard bash this time of year is outdoor living at its best. If you plan to host an outdoor party this season, you want to make sure your guests will be safe and happy in your outdoor space – and for many homeowners, that means a bit of party prep.
Before you begin making your menu and pulling out the plates, follow these simple steps to clean up your landscape for a perfect outdoor party.
LOOK AT YOUR LAWN
Is your lawn nice and lush? If not, it may not make a great first impression on your guests. If you have plenty of prep time before your party, use it to address any glaring issues like brown spots, weeds, and holes. Fertilizers and herbicides need time to take root, so try to apply them at least two to three weeks in advance.
REMOVE AND DISCARD DEBRIS
Before the big day, remove any yard debris that may be unpleasant or harmful to your party guests. This includes lawn debris like rocks, sticks, and pet waste, which can cause a fall (or a nasty smear on your shoe). You should also remove any loose or discarded toys as well as any broken outdoor furniture. When it comes to safety, you’re better safe than sorry!
MOW THE GRASS
This one is a given, but it’s easy to overlook. If you don’t want your guests getting lost in your lawn growth, give it a good mow two to three days before the party. This will ensure the clippings have a chance to settle and won’t stick to shins or shoes.
TRIM YOUR TREES
The last thing you want is your tree dropping a limb into someone’s lap. To keep your yard safe and spectacular, trim your trees into a safe and sturdy shape away from other structures (especially the grill). Take care to remove any dead or broken branches, as these are most likely to fall.
FRESHEN YOUR FLOWER BEDS
While a badly maintained bed isn’t usually unsafe, it’s always an eyesore. If you want a clean and polished look for your party, freshen your flower beds by removing any weeds or debris, pruning wilted plants, and adding a new layer of mulch.
PREPARE THE PATIO OR DECK
Before your guests arrive, be sure to prepare any outdoor party spaces like a patio or deck. At a minimum, you should give them a good cleaning with a broom and a power washer to remove any debris, dirt, or mold from cracks and crevices. You should also address any safety concerns such as rotten boards or hazardous nails.
DON’T FORGET THE FURNITURE
Your outdoor space won’t be spectacular if your seats are sticky, stained, or full of spider webs. The day before your party, spray down all of your non-fabric outdoor furniture to remove any dirt or debris. This includes any outdoor chairs, tables, benches, and umbrellas. If you have stubborn stains, try wiping them with mild detergent and a clean cloth.
A good cleaning will turn your outdoor space into the best party setting of the season. If you want to keep your landscape party-ready all year long, contact the professionals at Chad’s Landscape Management! Our residential maintenance plans cover every step to give you a safe, stunning landscape – without the pre-party stress.
