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Your guide to all things Real Estate<br />
in the <strong>Selwyn</strong> District<br />
Preparing your yard to be<br />
an outdoor haven<br />
27<br />
With thoughts of outdoor entertaining and<br />
BBQs on your mind as the temperatures rise, it’s<br />
time to prepare your yard for the warmer days<br />
ahead. With a little effort and planning, you can<br />
create a welcoming outdoor oasis where you can<br />
relax and enjoy the sunshine. Here are some tips<br />
to help you get started:<br />
Lawn Care: Mow your lawn, but don’t be<br />
tempted to cut it too short. Trim the edges and<br />
remove any weeds. Aerate the soil for better<br />
air circulation and water absorption, and apply<br />
lawn fertiliser to promote healthy grass growth.<br />
Gardening: Plant colourful summer flowers<br />
for a burst of colour and prune shrubs and trees<br />
to encourage healthy growth. Save money and<br />
eat fresh by planting summer vegetable and<br />
herb seedlings. Mulch garden beds to retain<br />
moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil<br />
temperature.<br />
Watering: With warmer weather and hot<br />
nor-west winds, water less frequently but deeply<br />
to encourage deeper root growth. Water early<br />
morning or late evening to minimise water loss<br />
due to evaporation and avoid burning plants.<br />
Pest Control: Nobody enjoys pests hanging<br />
around while you’re enjoying your outdoor<br />
space. Reduce bugs by keeping citronella<br />
candles or insect-repelling plants like lavender,<br />
mint, or marigolds nearby. Attract birds by<br />
placing bird feeders and birdbaths to help<br />
control insect populations naturally.<br />
Outdoor Furniture: Clean and inspect<br />
your outdoor furniture, and replace or repair<br />
anything damaged. It might be time to upgrade<br />
your outdoor cushions if they have faded.<br />
Perhaps an umbrella or a pergola will provide<br />
some much-needed shade.<br />
Entertainment Area: Ensure your BBQ is<br />
in working order, clean, and ready to go. Set<br />
up cozy seating or a dining area with sufficient<br />
outdoor lighting. Use string lights, solarpowered<br />
lanterns, or pathway lighting to create<br />
a warm and inviting atmosphere.<br />
Pool Maintenance: Ensure it’s clean, properly<br />
balanced, and safe for swimming, including the<br />
correct fencing and gate.<br />
Yard Safety: Inspect your yard for hazards,<br />
including uneven pathways or loose steps.<br />
Check the safety of outdoor electrical outlets,<br />
extension cords, and electrical equipment.<br />
By preparing your yard for summer now, you<br />
can create a haven where you, your family, and<br />
your friends can enjoy the outdoors in comfort<br />
and style. So, get to it, embrace the sunshine<br />
and make your yard a relaxing and welcoming<br />
space over the coming months.<br />
LOOKING FOR DESIGN INSPIRATION?<br />
Visit one of our stunning showhomes to gather ideas for your dream home<br />
Faringdon, 28 Finstock Way, Rolleston<br />
Faringdon, 30 Finstock Way, Rolleston<br />
SHOWHOMES<br />
Both showhomes<br />
Open Wed-Sun 12pm-4pm<br />
SHOWrOOM / OfficE<br />
31 Watts Road, Sockburn<br />
Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm<br />
0800 844 488<br />
signature.co.nz
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