Garden entertaining – making the most of the outdoors

With a sunny spell looming and restrictions easing, gardening experts have put together their tips for getting your outside space ready for entertaining.

The team at GardeningExpress.co.uk have looked at the quick changes you can make to impress friends and family and the finishing touches which will make all the difference,

They suggest giving garden furniture a quick overhaul and decorating entertaining areas with fairy lights and soft furnishings.

Other tips include the basics like cutting the lawn and pulling out the weeds as well as creating shade and warmth should you need it.

A spokesperson from GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “Restrictions easing, and the sunny spell look set to coincide making it the perfect opportunity for an outdoor get together with friends and family.

“There are some easy, low-cost fixes you can make to your outside space to make it ready to welcome guests, as well as a few essential garden chores to carry out too before they all arrive.

“And remember to bear in mind the fickle British weather. Have the parasols to hand for shade, the umbrellas in case of a sharp shower and the fire pit as the sun begins to set.”

Here are top tips from GardeningExpress.co.uk for getting your garden ready for summer entertaining:

1. Garden furniture

If your garden furniture is looking a little the worse for wear, give it a new lease of life. If it’s plastic or metal, a good clean down will often do the trick along with a few colourful cushions for chairs. If you have wooden furniture, get out the teak oil or Danish oil. You’ll be surprised at how much of a difference this makes.

2. Lighting

Decorate your entertainment area with outdoor lighting. Fairy lights create an ambient mood your guest will love. Try lighting citronella candles to add to the mood. Not only do these smell gorgeous, they also keep bugs at bay.

3. Soft furnishings

Scatter cushions and outdoor rugs are a great addition. Dot them around your garden as additional places for guests to relax.

4. Cut the grass

Make sure your lawn is newly trimmed, edged and looking it’s very best. No one wants to wade through long, damp grass.

5. Garden chores

Think about the other garden jobs you can carry out, so your outside space looks its best. Dig out any weeds, sweep up dead flowers and leaves and deadhead your bedding plants.

6. Create some shade

If you have a south facing garden, you’ll need to create shade during a sunny spell. Have the parasols ready, put up the gazebo if you have one, or alternatively drape a sheet between trees or on your deck or patio to create a DIY shady space.

7. When the sun sets

Remember as the sun sets the temperature can drop. A fire pit is the perfect and stylish way to create some warmth in the garden.

8. Seating and eating

Make sure you have plenty of seating for guests and table space if you’re cooking up a treat.

9. Be weather ready

Although a sunny spell has been forecast, we all know how fickle the UK weather can be. Have umbrellas to hand should you need them and be ready to bring your guests inside.