May 5, 2022

Get Your Yard BBQ Ready

The kids are officially out of school for summer break, the days are getting longer, and the weather is staying warm. Many of us are looking forward to barbecues and outdoor events. Often, such gatherings lead to firing up the grill, throwing out the cornhole boards, and sitting around a fire pit. But first we should ask ourselves, is our yard ready to host such events?

Here are a few tips to get your yard BBQ ready!

1. Tidy Up

Spring cleaning isn’t just for indoor spaces! Give your yard some TLC before hosting a gathering by raking any leftover leaves, pruning bushes, and picking up sticks or pinecones. It is a good idea to check for any holes or tripping hazards while you are inspecting your entertaining space. Nothing kills the mood of a party like a visit to urgent care.

2. Roll Out the Welcome Mat

Your lawn is the canvas on which the rest of your backyard rests. It can instantly set the tone for your gathering. Having a lush green lawn creates an inviting space for people to play, relax, and unwind.

Water is an essential step to a healthy lawn. Make sure you are watering your lawn properly. Conditions of your lawn, including type and variety of grass, the quality of soil, and the amount of shade, all directly affect how often and how much you need to water your lawn. Maintaining good moisture levels in your yard also helps protect against increased foot traffic.

Be sure you are mowing your lawn to the proper height to encourage new growth, which leads to a denser lawn. A dense, healthy lawn withstands pests and drought better, and discourages weeds. It is important to determine the optimal mowing height for your specific grass variety as each variety grows best within a slightly different height range. No matter the variety, never cut more than one third of the grass height in a single mowing. Drastic changes in height can injure the lawn.

It is also important to the health of your lawn to ensure your mower blades are always sharp. Dull blades will tear your grass instead of cutting it.

3. Attention to Details

Once you have cleaned up and mowed your lawn, take care of small tasks like sweeping or using a blower on decks and walkways to create clear lines that will complement the rest of the exterior when guests arrive. They might be simple tasks, but they’ll lend an air of luxury to your lawn during these final preparatory moments before opening up to welcome friends and family.

4. Accessorize

Some might say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but when it comes to your yard – beauty is an extension of function. You can take a dull, boring space to the next level by adding some lively elements.

Consider hanging strings of outdoor lights, adding brightly colored cushions, or planting colorful flowers. Don’t forget to pull out some tables, chairs, and lawn games to provide your guests with comfort and entertainment. Cornhole, horseshoes, giant Jenga, sidewalk, and bubbles are fun for all ages.

5. Clean the Grill

Last, but certainly not least, is the grill! You can’t have a BBQ without some great food. If you plan on firing up the grill to cook some hamburgers and hotdogs, be sure to clean food debris from the grates, and apply a little oil so food doesn’t stick. If you have a gas grill, be sure to have plenty of propane on hand.