Garden
furniture makes a garden look complete. Without furniture to relax on,
a garden will rarely be appreciated as it deserves. Furniture encourages
people to sit back and take in the scenery and the gardener’s
hard work.
When purchasing garden furniture select furniture that is durable, especially
if it will be used frequently or by kids. For the elderly and those
with disabilities light weight plastic or aluminum furniture will be
easy to move and store. Furniture can be made from wood, wrought iron,
plastic, and even stone.
If one is considering wooden garden furniture the wood should be teak,
oak, or cedar; these woods are weather resistant. Wood is usually treated
with a varnish to protect the piece from rot. Plastic can be left out
in the elements, but will accumulate dirt.
Buying garden furniture can be a little easier with these tips in mind:
•Cushions should be mildew resistant.
•Make sure glass tabletops are tempered, if not don’t buy
them.
•Yellow furniture will attract bees, choose colors wisely.
•Check wood furniture to ensure quality craftsmanship.
•Make sure metal is rust-proof or is treated to defend against
oxidation.
•Evaluate the amount of weather the piece will be subjected to.
Garden furniture can add to the layout and design of a garden. Careful
placement will create defined areas and encourage use. Seating is best
placed in shaded areas. If shade isn’t available then canopies
and parasols can provide some relief.
Benches are great placed next to water or along paths. Water provides
a soothing background noise. Pathways will beg to be lingered on if
a bench beckons the visitor. Hanging a hammock among trees provides
the perfect retreat on a summer afternoon.
Using furniture, nooks can be established. These cozy recesses can be
set up for person to read or meditate, maybe even nap. Consider the
idea of setting up a romantic alcove for two, tucked privately among
the foliage. Add romantic lighting such as torches to encourage nighttime
visits.
Place dining furniture in areas suited for entertaining. It’s
best to set up a dining area near the area the food is being prepared
so whoever is serving it won’t have to journey long distances.
Solar lighting can be installed to illuminate pathways and encourage
all hours of dining al fresco.
Caring for outdoor furniture will depend on the material it’s
made of. As stated above plastic can handle the elements but will need
to be cleaned periodically. Read the manufacturer guidelines and never
use cleaners or chemicals that may cause damage, mild soap and water
is usually the best bet.
Wood furniture will need to be treated and occasionally may need to
be sanded and re-stained. All garden furniture should be cleaned two
to three times a year. Hardware should also be checked to make sure
all bolts and screws are tight if applicable.
For the longest lasting furniture cover the pieces when not in use.
Covers defend against water and the sun which can fade pieces over time.
This may seem like a pain but it takes only a few minutes. A cute bucket
or container placed close to the furniture is a great place to stash
the cover when not in use.
Garden furniture is a terrific way to get the family outside and enjoying
nature. Tables can not only be used for dining, but for playing games
and socializing. Benches and stools offer wonderful places to read or
play guitar. Whatever the function, furniture allows a garden to be
enjoyed fully, as it should.