Under pandemic conditions, yards and other managed landscapes became a safe haven for gathering socially, celebrating milestones and holidays, working, studying, playing, exercising and = relaxing. Called “backyarding,” this trend moves indoor activities — from working in an office or classroom to dining and recreation — to the great outdoors. And it’s growing.
“Your own backyard is nearly limitless with possibilities, and homeowners got really creative as they expanded and enjoyed their yards over the last year,” said Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) and the TurfMutt Foundation. “We predict, long after the COVID-19 pandemic passes, our yards will become an even greater part of our lives. The notion of ‘backyarding’ is here to stay.”
In 2020, home improvements — many of them in the backyard — skyrocketed. So did the demand for outdoor power equipment as homeowners invested in making their outdoor spaces fabulous, functional and flourishing. Overall, shipments of outdoor power equipment increased 16 percent in 2020.
“Expect people to continue to invest in their outdoor life this coming spring,” Kiser said. “Many homeowners who put time and effort into their landscapes last year will be rewarded when that yard comes back to life this spring. But, even if you did little last year, it’s never too late to start — just start.”
Here are some ways to bring more “backyarding” into your life:
Invest in your yard.
Design a dream lawn and garden. Consider its purpose. Don’t design just for aesthetics.
Do you have kids and pets who need a place to play? Will you be hosting safe gatherings? Do you need a place for rest and relaxation or games and recreation?
Get the whole family involved.
Create a game or a friendly competition with your family to help identify all the ways you can move your indoor life to the great outdoors — and right out your back door.
Can you take office calls and video meetings to the patio or porch? Can your kids do their online learning outdoors? How often can you take dining outside? Keeping safety in mind, can you gather outdoors for family celebrations, birthdays, graduations and reunions?
Plant something — as early as you can. (Or plant more).
Adding trees, bushes, grass and flowering plants is a good yard investment, but they often take time to grow. Plant as early as recommended so you can enjoy the benefits faster.
Just remember, “right plant, right place.” You should consider location, maintenance, sunlight and watering needs, as well as your climate zone.
Stretch winter-weary muscles.
Take workouts, yoga classes and meditation sessions outdoors. You also can let off some steam by mowing the grass, trimming the hedges or edging the lawn.
Working in the yard not only helps our living landscapes look better and stay healthy, it also gives us a sense of accomplishment and control in trying times.
Plan a staycation.
A make-shift “resort” or vacation spot could be just out your back door. Pitch a tent, build a campfire, hang a sheet between trees to make a movie screen, set up games — these are just a few ideas to make the backyard a vacation spot.
“Level up” nature care.
Add flowering plants, trees and shrubs to give wildlife and pollinators food and shelter. Your yard is part of the larger ecosystem, so check your climate zone for landscaping options that support your birds, bees, butterflies and other wildlife. Don’t forget to take time to just sit and drink it in, observing the wildlife and nature around you.
Research shows simply spending time in nature — which starts in your backyard — is good for reducing stress, boosting heart health, boosting Vitamin D levels and enhancing memory. Thanks to the family yard, the health and wellbeing benefits of being outside are just a few steps away.
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