Winter is the right time to plan outdoor updates

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A yard like this takes planning, but turning your outdoor space into a special place is well worth it. You can warm up yourself and your upcoming projects by using winter time to gather ideas, do some research and imagine how you’re going to enjoy it all

Updated: May 9, 2012 10:12AM

Does the bitter cold weather have you dreaming of warm days spending time with friends and family in your back yard?

The cold may keep us indoors, but professionals in the landscape and remodeling industry are still thinking about the outdoors and use the winter months to plan spring projects, and so should you.

Winter months provide the perfect opportunity to prepare your outdoor space for the warmer months. Planning and prepping now will ensure that you get full use of your outdoor space for the entire season once warm weather arrives. Get a head start by planning some of your spring projects now.

The grass is greener: Before you know it, you’ll be peeling off your wool socks and walking around your yard feeling the soft grass between your toes.

To ensure a lush lawn, spend time this winter researching grass seed options so you can repair any sparse areas in your yard. Planting grass seed early gives the seed plenty of time to germinate which will give you a healthy, green lawn in the spring.

In addition to research, you can also chat with someone at your local nursery for help choosing the appropriate type of grass to plant in the early months of spring.

Light up the bulbs: Some bulbs grow best when planted in the early spring when the ground is still cool. Do some research to figure out the best bulbs for your region so you can determine the ideal planting time.

There’s nothing better than having a yard full of colorful flowers providing great curb appeal early in the season.

Up on deck: Sitting on your deck enjoying warm, sunny days or cooler evenings is something everyone looks forward to. Adding a new deck to your home or replacing an existing one adds value to your real estate investment.

Homeowners have the choice of wood or composite decking. According to Remodeling magazine 2009-10 Cost vs. Value Report, adding a composite deck to your home has a 70 percent return on investment. But don’t overlook the traditional treated wood deck. Do some research, make some calls and price it out to meet your needs.

You can find free online tools to help you plan your new decking project during winter months. Before you know it, you’ll have the perfect plan for your dream deck so when warm weather hits, you’re ready.

Trees and shrubs: Consider a plan to plant trees and/or shrubbery to provide a more natural outdoor atmosphere. The right type of landscaping will not only be visually appealing, but will also provide privacy and shade.

Planting your selections early can have many benefits including time for each tree or shrub to establish a strong root system so that it flourishes for many years to come.

Check with local greenhouses, nurseries, tree farms and garden shops. They can help you decide what grows best in the area and give you an idea of pricing and planting needs.

Above all, stop dreaming of warm weather and put that energy into planning your outdoor space. From decking to landscape updates, your efforts during the winter months will bloom into big results once the spring thaw hits.

— ARAContent