Spring is my favorite time of year and today I’m going to share with you our favorite spots in the yard and how we incorporate the gardens into them.
My favorite part about this season is feeling like you’re doubling the size of the house by creating living spaces outside. You know those few weeks before the heat and the bugs get so bad that you can’t stand to be outdoors? Mr. PR and I definitely take advantage of this time and soak it in as much as we can. Coffee on the porch and dinner on the deck and everything in between is what we look forward to most. To check out last year’s outdoor spaces, go here.
Container Gardening
Coffee on the porch is how I like to begin the day. Seeing my neighbors out and about is a great way to catch up on what’s going on in the neighborhood.
Bringing the garden to these areas by using containers/flowerpots really bring an area to life. Plants definitely know how to be the center of attention and there’s no better way to warm up a space than by doing this.
If you don’t happen to have a green thumb or are unsure of creating an arrangement in a flowerpot yourself, no need to stress. Knowing what plants are best for your area and climate can be overwhelming but if you check with your local nursery, they will advise you on what grows best in your zone. Another option is to buy already-made containers. You can give them your own personal style by, then, setting them in crates, buckets and baskets. Antique Farmhouse offers some great container ideas. These reclaimed wood medallion planter boxes would be a great addition to a plant vignette and they come in a set of two different sizes.
Another great planter option from Antique Farmhouse are these flower market metal buckets. They come in sets of three.
Just drop your potted plants down inside and you’re done!
Evening Ambiance
You don’t need to have a special occasion to create outdoor evening ambiance. Mr. PR and I love to have dinner on the deck and it’s easy to create an inviting space.
My absolute favorite porch plants are pots of Calibrachoa. You might know them, also, as Million Bells or Miniature Petunias. They’re a gorgeous mound of bell-shaped flowers and are relatively easy to care for once you understand their needs.
They come in a variety of colors and really pack a punch to any outdoor space.
Each year when I begin planning my garden, I choose flowers that will bloom all summer so I can bring them inside for arrangements. Zinnias, Echinacea, Monarda and Phlox are all great ideas for cut flowers. You can see one area of my garden below that is filled with colorful flowering blooms.
Unexpected Spaces
Look for those unexpected spaces in your yard that make great entertaining areas. I used a peach tree in our backyard to create a quiet spot to read, have a glass of wine or just catch your breath.
She Shed
One of my personal favorite spaces out back is my She Shed. It’s definitely my retreat, even though occasionally my hubby does come visit me back there. And I have to say, he understands the fascination and I think secretly wishes it was his man cave.
It’s a fun space that completely encompasses my own personality. The little porch on the front of the shed is a perfect place to let pots of flowers take center stage.
You’ll always find a watering can or two incorporated in my gardens. I am always keeping my eyes open for them at antique shops or yard sales. I am starting to get quite a collection. If you don’t have any yourself, these vintage-inspired ones from Antique Farmhouse are a great option and they come in a set of three.
Gardening can be intimidating but it doesn’t have to be, which is why container gardening is so great. Make each pot its own little garden in and of itself.
For me, gardening is my therapy. I love getting out there and getting my hands dirty and you never know what new friends you might find along the way.
Thanks so much for touring my favorite spaces in our yard and letting me share with you my love for gardening.
Christina says
So many wonderful details, Kristi!
Kristi Bissell says
Thanks so much Christina!
Jill says
Your home and outdoor spaces are incredible.
Kristi Bissell says
Jill, thank you sweet friend. It’s been so fun doing this with you.
sarah wagner says
Wow, your yard is a dream! Every detail is pure perfection, I can’t get enough of it! Great job!
Kristi Bissell says
Sarah, thank you so much. You are the sweetest!
Karan says
Kristi, I love your blog! Every space is gorgeous!!
Kristi Bissell says
Karan thank you so much for visiting, sweetie!
Stephanie says
Your space is sooooo cozy. Hoping to make mine like yours! I entered this amazing giveaway!
Kristi Bissell says
WOO HOO! You are so sweet. Thanks so much for your kind words and GOOD LUCK on the giveaway! I wish I could win.
XO-
Kristi
Janet says
Okie dokie Kristie…you had me at that SHE SHED! Seriously, such beautiful details in your garden!
Kristi Bissell says
Janet, thanks so much for visiting. My shed is always open so stop by any time!
Kim Hazel says
Wow Kristi your outdoor spaces are so magical and inspiring! The front porch with the swing looks so tranquil and relaxing! And your she shed is the most darling thing ever! To die for!
xoxo
Kim & Lacey
Kristi Bissell says
Kim and Lacey, thank you so very much. This has been such a fun project to do with you two.
XO
Kristi
Leslie Saeta says
Kristi,
Everything looks just wonderful. I love when you said your house feels
As if it doebles in size when the outdoor entertaining doubles in size! You have so many beautiful outdoor areas! Thanks for sharing them with us!
Kristi Bissell says
Leslie, thank you so much sweetie. I can’t tell you what your words mean to me. You ROCK!