Spring is finally here! Dust down your flipflops, crack out the Pimms and get out in the garden – it may have been a little neglected during the dark days of winter but there’s nothing more satisfying than getting your hands dirty getting it into shape. Plant some spring flowers and head to local gardening centres and sites like www.mysmartbuy.com in search of the best new tools, then add some of this lovely lot of garden accessories for the finishing touch.
1. Birdbaths & Birdfeeders
Birdfeeders look lovely hanging from branches and will quickly attract chirpy little feathered friends to your garden in droves. Make your own from cored apples or pick them up from a garden centre and stuff them with peanuts or seed mix.
2. Garden Benches
A simple way to get to sit back and enjoy your garden is to add a bench or two from the fantastic collection at http://www.homebase.co.uk – go for one that can withstand environmental wear and tear.
3. Outdoor Dining
A little metal table and chairs in a corner of the garden is the perfect place for summer brunches, an afternoon cocktail or an alfresco dinner by candlelight on a breezy summer evening.
4. Swings & Hammocks
A swing hanging from a strong bough is great fun for little ones and grown ups alike, or for the best nap you’re ever likely to have, hang a stripy hammock from two trees – just add pillows and lemonade for the perfect sunny afternoon.
5. Gazebos
Big back yard? Go all out with a gazebo. They’re hefty to set up, but they blend in beautifully, and they only get better with age and some climbing plants up the pillers. Host a mini festival and get a band to play in yours, or just use it as a shady escape on a hot summers day.
