As the warmer weather rolls in for many parts of the world and people continue to spend more time than usual at home, it is now the perfect time to revamp your outdoor space for an eco-friendly summer. Updating your outdoor area may seem like a daunting task, but there are plenty of different ways you can make your space environmentally friendly and beautiful without breaking the bank or your back. Take your pick from various ways to easily make your outdoor space more ecologically friendly in time for the upcoming season so you can enjoy your time outside while being kind to the planet.
Power of Propane
When it comes to adding new appliances or features to your outdoor area, no one wants to deal with running power cords. There are rarely outlets outdoors, and the hassle of configuring power cables is not worth the headache. Instead of giving up on the idea entirely or fighting with wires, turn to the power of propane. Propane is a clean, cheap, and easily accessible fuel that a variety of outdoor appliances use. From grills to firepits and even generators for your home, propane can run them all while being eco-friendly. Many propane appliances or features use the same propane containers so you can swap a container between your grill and firepit instead of buying a propane supply for each. You can refill propane containers at most gas stations or larger grocery stores so you will never have a hard time finding this eco-friendly and versatile fuel. If you are looking for a gas grill that operate with either propane or natural gas, use this place www.californiabackyard.com/bbqs/ as your reference.
Solar Lighting
Just like adding appliances to your outdoor space can be tricky when it comes to power supplies, adding lighting to outdoor areas may be intimidating initially until you realize there are better options. Instead of fighting with outlets and cables, opt for environmentally friendly solar lighting to illuminate your outdoor space. Outdoor solar lights use the same technology as traditional roof-mounted solar panels to generate energy. A small solar panel on top of the solar light absorbs sunlight and produces electricity that is then stored within the light to power the bulb once the sun goes down. You can place solar lights anywhere they will receive sunlight, making them ideal for garden paths or high places. There are wall-mounted, hanging, and ground stake solar lights in a wide variety of styles, so you will have no trouble finding a residential or commercial solar installation to fit your needs and style.
Smart Planting
One of the classic ways to update your outdoor space is to add new plants and vegetation. Adding plants, flowers, vegetables, or any other type of vegetation helps the environment and different local ecosystems, but do your research beforehand to ensure you are not introducing plants that could harm your local area. Non-native plants can be invasive species that will cause severe damage to local ecosystems. If you want to introduce an invasive species to your garden, you can do so safely by planting that species in a container so it cannot spread. Horsetail is an example of a popular plant to add visual interest and texture to outdoor spaces, but it is an invasive species that must be contained otherwise, it will take over. Containers can be a part of your decorating theme and even be a focal point. Look into painted clay pots or metal troughs for beautiful, but functional plant containers.
Caring For Your New Plants
Once you have your plants picked out, it is time to create a plan to maintain your new plants. Don’t generate waste by adding plants only to neglect them and only add plants you can confidently care for. Research plants that require the level of care you are comfortable with and capable of maintaining for the plant’s life. Also, research eco-friendly fertilizers and pest control methods. Certain plants and organic pest control methods are highly effective at keeping pests out of your garden without resorting to toxic chemicals. The pests you will contend with will depend on your area, but plenty of online resources can help you manage these problems without damaging the environment.
Making your outdoor space more environmentally friendly needn’t be complicated, expensive, or headache-inducing. With some simple changes, you can update your area in time for the warm weather without damaging the planet. Look into propane as a green fuel for your outdoor appliances. Solar lights can illuminate your space at night without requiring cables or an electric bill. Adding new plants responsibly can liven up your space while making the environment greener.
*Guest post contributed by Naomi Shaw. Twitter: @naomijshaw
