Escape from it all…. right at home

With job security down and gas prices up, it seems more people than ever are opting for a staycation – finding fun and relaxation at home. If you have even a little money to spend on your summer entertainment, why not spend it sprucing up your own yard to make your staycation even more enjoyable?

Whether you are planning a staycation or just looking for a way to relax after work, you can find peace and tranquility right in your own backyard. A tiny porch in a New York high rise, a rooftop garden, or a large yard can all provide a private outdoor space where you can relax after a long and hectic day while nature soothe your nerves.

With the right plants and conservation practices, you can easily create an inviting place for birds, nature, and your family with minimal cost and effort. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) and the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC) offer a free Backyard Conservation booklet that showcases simple backyard conservation practices. These include simple ideas for terracing, tree planting, composting, mulching, wildlife habitat, wetlands, ponds and water conservation.

If you have a larger yard and time to work in it, designing a garden is a natural way to escape for awhile. It’s always best to work with what you have, so depending on the native plants and existing landscaping in your yard, you may choose to plant a woodland landscape, a butterfly garden or a xeriscape garden. All of these garden types are generally easy to plant and maintain and are likely to use plants already existing in your yard.

If you have a small space or little time, a deck or patio garden can give you the illusion of a garden escape with less cost and hassle. Adding a deck is a popular, low-cost way to add living space to home. They facilitate outdoor dining. In fact, many homeowners turn their decks into small, but full-scale outdoor kitchens and entertainment areas.

Patios offer similar benefits to decks, but are made of stone, brick, patio pavers or concrete. If you decide to add a box garden or planters to your patio, plan to locate them in areas that receive consistent sunlight. A small fountain can also add a peaceful feel to your patio or deck and obscure noises from neighbors in an urban area.

As for me, I’m off to spend some time relaxing and watching birds in my backyard!  While I’m there, post a comment about how you escape to your own backyard!

 

 

Tags: backyard, environment, escape, escape in your own backyard, garden, staycation, USA Travel spots and deals; Ski slopes Winter park