It is now well documented that spending more time outdoors is seriously good for your health, in particular for reducing stress levels. While taking a bike ride in the country, strolling around a park, or taking a day-long trip to a national park are all great ideas, it’s nice to have a piece of the great outdoors in your very own home. Of course, you’ll need to create a garden that you actually desire spending time in for that, so here’s how to manage it.
Aim for Unobstructed Views
When landscaping, you may want to section off pieces of your outdoor space. Perhaps you want one area to have a pool, another to be used for seating, and another as a play area for kids.
Make sure you do not obstruct too much of the view when sectioning areas off, though, especially with fences or taller bushes. You want your garden to feel airy and spacious, plus, it’s nice to have a full view of all the beauty your garden has to offer.
To manage this, opt for glass fencing when you want to section an area off. Having a glass pool fence installed means the pool can be seen from your home and the surrounding garden, but still adds an extra layer of safety.
Grow Fruits and Veggies
There’s something exciting about growing your own food. While growing plants in general is a great way to get you outside, knowing that you may have some delicious broccoli or strawberries coming through is certain to get you outside more often than not, even just to check on their progress. Some of the best garden foods to grow include:
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Lettuce
- Carrots
- Snap Peas
- Radishes
- Bell Peppers
Be sure to consider your local climate (as well as your own taste bud preferences) before choosing the best foods to grow.
Build a Comfortable Seating Area that Withstands Weather
A designated seating area is key to getting you outside more often. The key here is comfort, as you likely won’t sit on a hard metal bench if you start to ache after a while. You should also make sure it withstands a range of weather changes, whether that involves adding shelter or having a fire pit for the cooler evenings.
Keep the Upkeep Simple
It is tempting, especially when excited about creating a lived-in garden, to overdo it, planting far too many delicate plants and outdoor areas that require a lot of cleaning. The key is to not overdo it. Instead, keep the upkeep simple so you actually get it done. That way, you won’t become overwhelmed by all the garden tasks you have to do and avoid them.
A garden you actually spend time in is worth a lot. It creates an additional space where you can hang out with friends and family. Plus, the vitamin D from the sun and the exposure to nature will help you feel happier and healthier day to day.
