Hello sunshine! Here's how to spring-proof your outdoor space
The days are getting longer, the first rays of sun tickle your face and the winter coat can be left hanging on the coat rack more and more often. That means only one thing: time to get your garden, balcony or roof terrace ready for a lovely long spring! No green thumb? No stress. With these five simple tips from our colleague (and hobby gardener!) Mireille, you can transform your outdoor space into a sunny paradise in no time.
1. Major cleaning (but fun!)
Let's face it: winter has left its mark. Time for a mini-makeover. Remove the leaves, clean the terrace and give your garden furniture a good once-over. Has your wooden bench had its best day? A coat of oil or varnish works wonders and gives it an instant fresh look.
2. Color, color and more color
Spring means color! Fill your flower pots with cheerful bloomers like pansies, blue grapes and tulips. Play with heights, mix different shades and throw in a touch of lavender for that lovely summer scent (and instant bees and butterflies in your garden - win-win!).
3. Make it extra cozy with accessories
Soft cushions and plaids ensure
that you can sit outside comfortably even on chilly spring days. Add lanterns, candles and atmospheric light garlands for the
evenings. Small details make all the difference!
4. Put your garden in bloom with a mini vegetable garden
Growing your own vegetables is fun, delicious and sustainable. Start small with easy crops like lettuce, tomatoes or radishes. Even the smallest balcony can accommodate a vertical vegetable garden - and bet you'll soon be proudly serving your own radishes?
5. Herbs for an extra green boost
Make your outdoor spot even finer with a mix of plants and herbs. Add an herb box with mint, basil and rosemary - perfect for picking fresh herbs for your tea or summer dishes later. Extra
tip: put fragrant plants such as jasmine or lavender near your sitting area for an instant vacation feeling.
Et voilà, your sunny outdoor spot is ready to enjoy an entire season. So, put out that first cup of coffee, throw on your sunglasses and enjoy spring.
Even more sunny inspiration? Check out these green insta accounts
@moesmeisje
Kim Nelissen, aka Mosesmeisje, shares tips and inspiration on her Instagram account for anyone who
wants to start organic urban gardening or dreams of a mini vegetable garden. She shows how you can still have a bountiful harvest on limited space and shares delicious recipes using ingredients from her own garden.
@urbanjungleblog
The account for anyone who wants more greenery in their home and garden. From indoor gardens to jungle-like patios, you'll immediately feel like stocking up on plants.
@sprinklr_plants
Want a garden or balcony that makes the bees happy and you too? Then follow @sprinklr_plants! This sustainable plant brand shows you how to create a green jungle without the hassle, with strong, toxin-free plants that whistle and do their thing. From wildflowers to edible herbs - just plain green, no fuss.
@flamingo_estate
Next level inspiration? Dream away to the hills of LA, where Flamingo Estate by Autralier Richard Christiansen is an insane mix of botanical splendor. Think: lush gardens, fresh herbs, candles that smell like a Mediterranean summer and slow living at its best. Martha Stewart, Megan Markle and Oprah love to linger there and you can immediately see why!
@aimeevdminnet garden design
From wildflower meadows to gardens where
you'd rather never leave. Aimée van der Minne knows how to use greenery at its most beautiful. She takes you into her world of playful borders, natural lines and cheerful outdoor spaces. She calls it Creating Wonderland. Follow along for a hefty dose of garden dreams and throw out those tiles!
