Want to make an improvement on your yard this year but don’t have much time? Don’t worry, by adding colour, lighting and accessories, you can boost your curb appeal in as little as a weekend.

The first item for your weekend facelift is to look at your yard with fresh eyes. Choose an area that needs a bit of WOW. Is it your walkway to your front door? Your driveway? Or is it a little corner in your backyard? Once you have chosen which area to work on, measure it out. Draw a rough sketch of the area and plan where you want to add your lighting, colour or any other accessories. Not sure what colour combinations to use? Check out my other blogs on colour schemes. Remember to take in account what colour(s) your siding and trim are.

Come up with a budget and head to your local home and garden store. Take your rough sketch and measurements with you so you know what and how much to purchase. Talk to an outdoor lighting expert about what suits your needs best and choose your flowers and accessories according to the colour scheme you have chosen (remember to stay within your budget). Make sure to purchase plants that will grow in the area you are working on. For example: don’t plant Marigolds in the shade, they need lots of sun to thrive. There should be information on each plant at your local garden store, but if there isn’t, feel free to ask an employee. That is why they are there – to help out. Ask them if there is anything else you should purchase to keep your garden healthy.

The next part may be the least fun but make sure you thoroughly clean, de-weed and/or dig up space. When that is complete, add your lighting (make sure to follow the instructions provided in the box), plant your flowers and arrange your accessories.

Now it’s time to relax, admire and enjoy your hard work. Before you know it, others will want you to work on their yards next.

Image: iStock Photo (May 20, 2010)

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