Make your backyard more inviting in El Mirage, AZ

Ways to Make Your Backyard More Inviting

CC SunscreensEnergy Savings

CC Sunscreens

Now that you have a beautiful sunshade to protect you from the harsh Arizona sun, you might be wondering “What’s next?” You’ve come to the right place. There are a variety of DIY and affordable, pre-made additions that can be easily added to make your backyard the envy of the neighborhood. Some hardy plants and a designated sitting area would make a world of difference. Throw in a water feature and maybe an outdoor kitchen and consider yourself ready to party!


Shrubbery

There are many types of plants that be grown either in-ground or in a pot that can tolerate the hot, arid climate in southern Arizona. The salvia plant, sometimes called Scarlet Sage is one of them. Asparagus Fern and anything in the succulent family are also wonderful and asthetically pleasing options for a drought tolerant landscape. Planting some of these beautiful plants in the backyard will not only look gorgeous but will help to block the sun that comes through a chain link or wrought iron fence as well. Many plants can be easily trained to climb the fence to help cool down the west face of the house.

Outdoor Sitting Area

The whole idea of making the backyard more inviting is to maximize the amount of ‘livable’ space on your property. One way this is achieved is with a nice looking seating arrangement. It doesn’t have to cost a fortune to get some nice chairs and a small table for your backyard. They can even be purchased at a yard sale and painted for very little out of pocket.

Water Feature

Most will agree there is nothing quite as soothing as the sound of running water. Placed in the corner of your yard, this will attract birds and beneficial pollinators to your garden. If your house is next to a high traffic area, running water can help to drown out traffic noise as well. Pinterest has many ideas for affordable and gorgeous water features that can be sized to fit your backyard.

Outdoor Kitchen

The days of dad grilling hotdogs on a charcoal grill are long since gone. These days the sky’s the limit when it comes to outdoor cooking. While a 12 burner BBQ with room to make side dishes is going to set you back a few thousand dollars, it might be worth it for the value it adds to your home. A mini fridge for condiments and drinks is typically pictured with these types of cooking systems but it doesn’t stop there. A full wet bar and small sink can also be configured if you do it right.

With the retractable sunshade installed to stretch your livable area, it’s only a matter of time before you finish the rest of the yard. Think carefully about what you want and how much to spend. More often than not, these are permanent changes. Keep the additions in proportion to the space you have and make sure you still have room for the kids to run around. Get out there and enjoy the rest of your property.