Southampton - It's summertime in the Hamptons and that means you'll happily enjoy spending more time outside in the fresh air than inside. With more parties soon underway, don't forget to "decorate" your outdoor rooms with that last detail before your guests arrive. Here are some elements you should be thinking of in order to make the most as the host of your garden soiree:

We all have that one opportunity to make that first great lasting impression. (Barry Block)

Seasonal Planters For The Pool: Having a well-planned container garden of elegant vessels filled with cascading foliage and fragrant blooms will enhance the character of your poolside area and brighten the landscape. Everything from exotic, boldly colored tropicals, to tri-colored grasses, and even perennials can be incorporated to create a lush planter. Mix in some white, silver, or variegated "moonscaping" plants that will be sure to reflect the most moonlight and dazzle the senses after sundown.

Having The Best Perennial Border: Knowing how to plant, what plants to choose, and how to care for the landscape will ensure your garden is full of color and seasonal interest. The first step is performing general maintenance within the flowerbeds to create a cleaner look and promote continued growth. Next is to extend color and seasonal interest by incorporating colorful plantings that flower at different times and have long lasting bloom periods. Lastly, don't forget to add structure by using evergreen and deciduous plantings in the perennial border to create form.

The Beauty Of Ornamental Grasses: No other plant can add movement and catch light like ornamental grasses. Whether planted in drifts or as individual specimen focal points, the graceful, arching form will almost give a "voice" to your garden as they softly rustle and continuously flow in the wind. Be sure to place them where they can "catch the light," which will shine through their foliage and flower heads, making them glow and shimmer in the breezes. Additionally, ornamental grasses need very little maintenance, come in an assortment of tones, and are deer tolerant.


First Impressions Count: We all have that one opportunity to make that first great lasting impression. The landscape says "Hello" before you even step through the door, much less onto the property. How you maintain and design your home's interior is as important as its exterior. You want to make a positive impression that is memorable and favorable from the street, drawing your visitors in. No matter the budget, there are always small enhancements that can be done to increase the curb appeal of a property.

Garden Retreats: Regardless of the size of your yard, garden design does not always have to be treated on a large scale. You can add to existing spaces with layers of color and texture, thereby adding tremendous depth and interest. Incorporating even the smallest element to heighten a view or experience in an area within the yard can be simple, and in the long term, save money, reduce maintenance, and have a great effect on the environment. The right plantings, furnishings, and accents, can create a garden getaway that's perfect for family gatherings, entertaining, or solitary quiet time.


Finishing Touches: You might feel there is an area in your yard that lacks that final touch to bring it all together. While your garden may have all the necessary elements for your outdoor needs, it is key to step back and see what might be missing. We want our spaces to effortlessly flow into one another. Incorporating the right garden structures will be the icing on the cake for your already beautifully designed landscape!

So before you recline back with a refreshing summertime beverage in hand, think about how your garden and home will be perceived by your guests upon their arrival. After all, you know your party is going to be a hit - make sure the garden is too!