Transforming your backyard into an all-season garden oasis gives you the chance to enjoy the outdoors any time of the year. For instance, imagine plants that bloom at different times, offering a mix of color and texture throughout the seasons, or a cozy outdoor kitchen and entertainment area for relaxing with friends and family. To get started, here are six tips from Hicks Landscapes, the top-rated landscape design/build firm on Long Island, to update your yard for year-round use:
1. Choose Plants for Every Season
Selecting a mix of plants keeps your garden looking lively all year. Hicks Landscapes recommends starting with evergreens like holly and boxwood for winter color and structure. Next, spring brings bulbs like tulips and daffodils, along with flowering trees such as cherry and magnolia. Then, summer is full of color with roses, hydrangeas, and blooming annuals and perennials. Finally, as fall arrives, they suggest adding ornamental grasses, bold-colored shrubs, mums, and Montauk daisies.
Evergreen Holly
Spring Flowering Kwanzan Cherry
Summer Blooming Roses
Fall Chrysanthemums
2. Add Hardscaping
Hardscaping helps guide people through your garden and adds structure to the space. For example, use natural stone, brick, or gravel for pathways that are both durable and attractive. In addition, you can place stepping stones in grassy areas or create winding trails lined with herbs. Also, lighting the paths makes your garden safer and more inviting at night. To make it even more special, add a decorative fountain as a fun focal point.
3. Invest in an Outdoor Kitchen
An outdoor kitchen lets you enjoy meals and time outside even more. Include basics like strong countertops for preparing and serving food, cabinets that can handle the weather, and a built-in grill. To add comfort, try a pergola covered in vines or a canopy for shade. Plus, create a seating area around a fire pit—perfect for staying warm on cool nights or making s’mores under the stars.
4. Create Cozy Nooks
Cozy corners throughout your garden make it more inviting. For instance, place a bench under flowering trees and surround it with soft cushions and throws. This encourages people to relax and enjoy quiet moments. To boost relaxation, add water features like small fountains or ponds. For extra privacy, use plants such as arborvitae or skip laurels to block views and create a peaceful space.
5. Add Outdoor Furniture & Accessories
Outdoor furniture should be both strong and stylish. Pick materials like teak, metal, or weather-resistant wicker that can handle different weather conditions. Also, choose cushions made with outdoor fabrics so they last longer. To finish the look, add accessories like windchimes, rugs, and garden decorations. These personal touches help bring your space to life. If you’re looking for ideas, Hicks Nurseries has a wide range of options to fit your style and budget.
6. Year-Round Maintenance: Keep Your Garden Thriving
Taking care of your garden all year keeps it looking great. Hicks Landscapes has a skilled team to help maintain your landscape in top shape. It’s important to water, trim, and fertilize regularly to help plants grow strong and healthy. Also, adding mulch keeps moisture in the soil and reduces weeds. With a little care each season, your outdoor space will stay beautiful and enjoyable all year long.
Bringing It All Together
In the end, creating a four-season garden and outdoor living space lets you enjoy your yard every day of the year. Whether it’s colorful flowers, quiet walking paths, or places to gather with loved ones, each part works together to build a space that’s both useful and beautiful. No matter the season, your outdoor area becomes a place to relax, have fun, and make memories. With help from Hicks Landscapes, your dream yard is closer than you think.