Sprucing up the backyard living space

The backyard can provide great additional living space for the family so long as it's a comfortable, inviting place to be. Here are a few easy tips to help spruce up the backyard this season:

•Ready the yard. Before doing any major backyard redecorating, start with a clean canvas, and that means weeding. Herbicides are one option, but for a chemical-free way to weed the garden, roll up the sleeves and dig up the unwanted plants at the root. It's effective and a great form of exercise.

•Give the white picket fence a makeover. If the picket fence needs a little TLC, don't just paint it white again. Instead, cover it with vines to give the yard a rustic feel. Or involve the kids in the outdoor makeover by assigning them each a fence post to decorate any way they want, such as with handprints or painted flowers.

•Plant in pairs. Companion planting is the act of growing two different plants next to each other in order to promote growth, repel pests or attract helpful insects. Plant tomatoes next to roses or onions next to marigolds to help keep unwanted pests at bay.

•Store stuff. It doesn't matter how gorgeous a yard looks if people can't see it through the clutter. Store gardening tools, lawn mowers and other backyard necessities in an outdoor storage shed.

•Have a seat. After taking the time to spruce up the yard, make sure there is a place to sit and enjoy it. Create a seating area with all-weather chairs and tables so people can entertain, play or just relax in the spruced-up space.

This story is provided by North American Precis Syndicate Inc.