During the darkest days of cold winter weather, it can be easy to forget that in just a few short months, it will be springtime again. And that doesn’t just mean warmer temperatures, budding trees, and longer days: It also means the return of your backyard, patio, or pool area as a center of family life and socialization. Even if you fell short on preparations in past years, putting in a little effort ahead of time can make all the difference in the world when it comes to making that outdoor space look lush by the time the weather warms up.
We’ve come up with the best products that will have your outdoor space ready for spring—and looking better than ever. And if you’re looking for more ways to give your house a bit of a facelift, check out 25 Pieces of Rustic Farmhouse Décor That Will Completely Change Your Home.
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1 | This stylish planter
West ElmPoured concrete items have a gorgeous texture and are durable enough to keep outdoors, no matter the weather. But what about when it comes to actually moving them around? These planters are made of a lightweight composite that only looks like concrete, which makes them much easier to bring indoors when the time comes. They’re also available in three colors and sizes, meaning you can mix and match to get the exact look you want. And if you’re looking for more ways to make it through until late March, check out these 15 Hygge Accessories That Will Make Your Home Warm and Cozy for Winter 2020.
2 | These reclining lawn chairs
HayneedleGetting comfy on the couch or in bed is one thing—getting cozy in the backyard, on the patio, or by the pool requires a little extra planning—and the right hardware. This lawn chair can be easily adjusted an infinite number of ways (all the way from upright to full recline), includes a retractable sunshade, and will easily fold up for storage whenever it's not in use.
3 | This watering can
AmazonThink the watering can you use for your house plants will work fine for your garden beds? Think again. The majority of outdoor plants are best hydrated by a spout that showers them, not douses them in a steady stream. This sturdy, affordable option will make it easy to water those patches of flowers where the hose just can't reach. And if you’re looking for more classic touches around the house, check out these 17 Amazing Vintage Home Features That Are Too Charming for Words.
4 | This organic fertilizer
AmazonWhen it comes to picking the right kind of products to help your garden grow, it’s also important to keep the environment in mind. This all-organic granular fertilizer is an excellent source of vital phosphorus and calcium, ideal for growing everything from vegetables and tubers to flowers and bulbs. Better yet, it only needs to be applied every three months for top results!
5 | These color changing patio lights
AmazonSetting the ambiance indoors is usually as easy as flipping the light switch. Unfortunately, the harsh tone set by your lone deck light might make hanging out on the patio less romantic than you’d like. This Philips Hue set can change all of that, illuminating your patio, pathway, pool area, or backyard just the way you like it, thanks to controls set through your smartphone, including voice commands through Alexa. Plus, this base kit can also be easily expanded with other bulbs and fixtures from the Hue Outdoor set.
6 | This garden starter seed kit
AmazonWhen it comes to cooking well, there’s nothing like having an array of fresh leafy greens and herbs available to you at any given time. So why not make the most of the warm weather and get a head start on planting everything you’ll need to make breakfast, lunch, and dinner through the summer? This kit comes with 20 types of heirloom-variety seeds, including everything from cilantro, parsley, and Italian basil to kale, arugula, cabbage, and nine types of lettuce that can all reach full growth in just 35 days. This pack also includes helpful plant marker signs so you can keep track of what’s planted where. And if you’re looking for greenery to help spruce up your indoor space all year round, check out these 20 Easy-to-Care-For Houseplants That Will Brighten Any Room.
7 | This outdoor pouffe
IkeaMost homes are prepared with enough patio or lawn furniture to accommodate the family plus a few more, but stockpiling folding chairs isn’t always an option, especially considering how chaotic a sea of mismatched seating can look. These stylish, fade-resistant pouffes are a great option for anyone looking to dress up their outdoor space, making for great ottomans or extra seating all season long.
8 | This vertical planter
WayfairJust because you may not have the most spacious patio or backyard in the world doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the ambiance of a lush garden. This vintage-style wooden ladder planter takes flowers and vegetables off the ground, maximizing space without sacrificing visual appeal. It can also be used as a towel and toiletry storage rack by the pool or in the bathroom. And if you’re looking for easy ways to liven things up indoors, check out these 20 Bathroom Accessories That Will Totally Reinvent Your Space.
9 | This cozy hammock
AmazonIf a plush, cozy couch is the indoor ideal for relaxation, then a bright, breezy hammock has to be the outdoor equivalent. This cotton hammock comes in a variety of colors, making it a splashy centerpiece in your yard, or a toned-down accent, depending on your taste. And with a sturdy steel base and reinforced hanging ropes, it’s strong enough to stand up to the weather all year round.
10 | These wildflower seeds
AmazonVegetable gardens are fun to tend and great for keeping your kitchen stocked, but there’s nothing like enjoying a bed of flowers you’ve grown yourself. This bulk seed mix includes 18 different varieties of wildflowers, creating a great mix of colors and scents that will attract plenty of butterflies, birds, and helpful bees. They also make for great party favors if you’re planning a pool party, barbeque, or backyard get-together.
11 | This tabletop fire pit
The GrommetHaving a well-made fire pit is one of the best ways to make the most of your outdoor space, but not all backyards or patios have room for roaring flames. Luckily, this small stone-filled gel-powered tabletop fireplace is a great workaround—it doesn't release any harmful toxins or smoke and requires no chimneys or special ventilation to use.
12 | This cooler table
Home DepotHosting the inaugural backyard party of the spring is one of the best ways to celebrate the return of warm weather, but bulky coolers aren't exactly an attractive accent piece. These handy storage tables work as low top tables or high top tables, and have stealthily hidden coolers for keeping your drinks nice and chilled. They’re a functional and chic way to serve without taking up too much space!
13 | This outdoor rug
Rugs.comLooking to brighten up the tired brick or dingy concrete that dominates your outdoor space? Outdoor rugs are a great way to breathe new life into even the most tired patios, decks, and backyards with a pop of color and texture. This easy-to-clean piece is stain-resistant and comes in multiple colors and sizes, making it easy to achieve the exact look you’re going for.
14 | This retro patio set
AmazonNot seeing a lot of modern patio sets you love? Then embrace your fondness for nostalgia with this vintage-style patio set, which includes two chairs and a table that are made of sturdy steel. It's even available in a variety of colors to suit your style and make your outdoor space as unique as you are.
15 | These garden torches
AmazonIf you don’t have room for an outdoor fire pit or have time to string bistro lights, lawn torches are a fantastic way to create some ambiance for a backyard get-together or family meal on the patio. This 4-pack of torches is made of durable iron and are easily refillable, making them great for an entire season instead of just a handful of uses.
