Summer is just around the corner, and with it comes the chance to enjoy outdoor living—BBQs, family gatherings, garden parties, and relaxing evenings with friends.
If you want your garden to be the perfect backdrop for entertaining, now’s the time to start getting everything ready. A little preparation in spring means you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy your space all summer long!
Here’s our easy guide to preparing your garden for summer entertaining.
1. Spruce Up Your Lawn
Nothing sets the tone for a garden party like a lush, green lawn.
✅ Mow and edge neatly – A tidy lawn instantly makes the whole garden feel more polished.
✅ Feed and water – Apply a spring/summer lawn feed to encourage thick, healthy growth.
✅ Repair bare patches – Overseed any thin areas now so they have time to fill in before summer.
🌿 Tip: Regular, light mowing through April and May creates a soft, carpet-like finish ready for barefoot summer days!
2. Clean & Refresh Your Patio or Decking
Your patio or decking is likely to be the main social hub during summer gatherings, so make sure it’s clean and safe.
✅ Jet wash patios, decking, and pathways to remove moss, algae, and dirt.
✅ Repair any wobbly slabs, cracked boards, or loose fixings.
✅ Add a fresh coat of stain or sealer to decking if needed to protect against summer sun and BBQ spills.
🌿 Tip: A good clean can make hard landscaping look brand-new—well worth a morning’s effort!
3. Refresh Your Garden Furniture
Comfortable seating is a must for outdoor entertaining.
✅ Inspect and clean your furniture – wipe down tables, chairs, and benches.
✅ Repaint or oil wooden furniture to freshen it up.
✅ Invest in new cushions or covers to brighten up the space and add comfort.
✅ Create extra seating with folding chairs, garden stools, or even large floor cushions.
🌿 Tip: Choose weather-resistant fabrics for cushions and throws so you don’t have to dash out every time it rains!
4. Plant for Colour and Scent
A few well-placed plants can transform your garden into a stunning summer setting.
✅ Plant pots and containers with summer bedding plants like petunias, geraniums, and lobelia.
✅ Add scented plants like lavender, jasmine, and sweet peas near seating areas for a fragrant atmosphere.
✅ Grow herbs like mint, rosemary, and basil close to your BBQ or kitchen door for easy pickings and great smells.
🌿 Tip: Group pots together in different sizes to create a vibrant, informal look that’s easy to move around.
5. Set the Mood with Lighting
Garden lighting makes evenings magical and extends your party long after sunset.
✅ Hang solar fairy lights through trees, shrubs, or along fences.
✅ Use lanterns, hurricane lamps, or candles on tables for a cosy glow.
✅ Install solar stake lights to line paths or borders safely.
🌿 Tip: Soft, warm lighting is key—avoid harsh white lights that can kill the atmosphere.
6. Create Different Garden Zones
Designate separate areas for different activities to make your garden flow better during parties.
✅ Relaxing zone – Seating and cushions for chatting and chilling.
✅ Dining zone – Table and chairs ready for meals and drinks.
✅ Play zone – If you have kids, set aside space for games or a paddling pool.
✅ Cooking zone – Organise your BBQ or outdoor kitchen space.
🌿 Tip: Even small gardens benefit from clever zoning—use pots, furniture, or outdoor rugs to define different areas.
7. Stock Up on Summer Essentials
✅ Outdoor heating – A fire pit, chiminea, or patio heater extends evening entertaining.
✅ Shading solutions – Parasols or gazebos protect against midday sun.
✅ BBQ and tools – Clean your BBQ and check you’ve got tongs, brushes, and fuel ready.
✅ Bug control – Citronella candles or insect-repelling plants like lemongrass keep pests at bay.
🌿 Tip: Keep a few extra throws and blankets handy for when the temperature dips at night.
Checklist: Preparing Your Garden for Summer
| Task | Done? |
|---|---|
| Mow, feed, and repair lawn | ✅ |
| Jet wash patio and decking | ✅ |
| Clean and refresh furniture | ✅ |
| Plant summer colour and scent | ✅ |
| Set up garden lighting | ✅ |
| Create garden zones | ✅ |
| Stock up on essentials | ✅ |
Get Ready for a Summer to Remember!
Preparing your garden now means you’ll be ready by the time the sunshine arrives. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, a birthday bash, or simply a chilled evening with friends, a well-tended garden makes every gathering extra special.
Need a Hand Getting Your Garden Ready?
Project Garden offers professional lawn care, hedge trimming, planting, jet washing, and garden maintenance to help you get your outdoor space looking its best for summer.
📞 Call 07795 800 772
📧 Email info@projectgarden.co.uk
🌿 Let’s make your garden the ultimate summer destination!