Creating a healthy outdoor living space for your family is a great way to improve your quality of life. Not only will you have a beautiful place to relax and spend time with your loved ones, but you’ll also enjoy the many health benefits of spending time outdoors. Here are just a few tips on how you can create an outdoor living space that’s good for your health:
1. Incorporate plants into your design.
Plants not only add beauty to your space but also help purify the air. Choose plants known for their air-purifying properties, such as spider plants, aloe vera, and peace lilies. Of course, you’ll also want to ensure that the plants you choose are safe for your family, especially if you have young children or pets.
For example, the sap of some plants, such as poinsettias, can cause skin irritation, so it’s essential to do your research before adding any new plants to your space. You can also ask your local nursery for recommendations. They can help you choose plants that are safe for your family and thrive in your climate.
2. Maintain your trees and shrubs.
Trees and shrubs can provide much-needed shade and privacy but also harbor pests and diseases. Make sure to have your shrubs and trees professionally trimmed regularly to remove any dead or diseased branches. This will help keep your plants healthy and prevent pests and diseases from spreading.
Some common tree and shrub diseases include powdery mildew, rust, canker, and blight. If you notice any of these problems with your plants, contact your local nursery or garden center for advice on treating them. You may also want to consider regularly treating your trees and shrubs for pests and diseases.
3. Put up a fence.
If you live in an area with a lot of foot traffic, you may consider putting up a fence to protect your family from pests and diseases. A fence will also help to keep your children and pets safe. If you have young children, you may want to consider putting up a fence around your garden to prevent them from getting into plants that may harm them.
Different types of fencing include wooden, chain-link, and vinyl. You’ll need to decide which kind of fence is best for your needs. If you’re concerned about the environment, you may want to choose one made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo. There are also security fences that you can install to keep intruders out.
4. Make sure there’s plenty of natural light.
Exposure to natural light has been shown to have several health benefits, including improved mood and increased vitamin D levels. If your outdoor living space doesn’t get much natural light, you may want to consider adding some skylights or solar-powered lights. You can also try to position your furniture so that you and your family will be in the sun for at least a few hours each day.
When choosing furniture for your outdoor living space, look for pieces made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo or teak. These materials are not only environmentally friendly but also durable and easy to care for. Avoid leaving them out in the sun for extended periods, as this can cause them to fade.
5. Add some water features.
The sound of running water is known to have a calming effect, so adding a water feature to your outdoor living space is a great way to create a relaxing environment. Water features can also help to mask noise from traffic or neighbors. If you have a small space, you can add a water feature by installing a small fountain or a birdbath. If you have a larger space, you may want to consider adding a pond or a waterfall.
When choosing a water feature, choose one made from durable materials, such as concrete or stone. You’ll also want to ensure that it is correctly installed, so it doesn’t leak. Check the feature regularly to make sure that the water level is where it should be and that there is no debris in the water.
6. Hang wind chimes.
The gentle sound of wind chimes can help to create a calm and relaxing environment. You can buy wind chimes online or at your local home and garden store. Depending on the size of your outdoor living space, you may want to choose a small set of chimes or a larger set.
When hanging wind chimes, choose a location that is out of the way of foot traffic. You’ll also want to ensure that the chimes are not in a place where they will be blown around too much by the wind.
Creating a healthy outdoor living space for your family doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these simple tips, you can create a safe and relaxing environment for everyone. Contact a professional landscaper or gardener for advice if you have any questions about your outdoor living space.
