backyard, DIY, gardening, How to, Western Red Cedar

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How to Get Your Cedar Shed Ready for Winter (and Every Season)

How to Prepare Your Shed for Winter

Sheds do more than hold tools — they protect your equipment, keep your outdoor space organized, and help your backyard function smoothly throughout the year. However with changing seasons, temperature shifts, moisture, and pests, your shed needs the right care to stay in great condition.

Whether you have a Western Red Cedar shed or another outdoor structure, regular maintenance ensures it lasts for decades, performs well in every season, and stays visually beautiful.

This guide walks you through practical, easy-to-follow steps to prepare your shed for winter — and maintain it year-round.

1. Start With a Deep Clean

A seasonal reset gives you a clean slate and prevents moisture, pests, and clutter from building up.

Steps:
  1. Remove everything from your shed
    Lay tools, pots, and supplies outside on a tarp.
  2. Sweep thoroughly
    Clear dust, cobwebs, leaves, and soil from corners and floors.
  3. Wash your tools
    1. Scrub soil off shovels and trowels
    2. Rinse pots
    3. Let everything dry fully to prevent rust
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6x4 SpaceMaster Western Red Cedar Shed Outdoor Living Today 5
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2. Spruce Up the Shed Structure

A shed made of Western Red Cedar naturally resists rot and insects — but seasonal inspections still help it last longer.

What to Check:

Cracks or gaps in panels → Fill with exterior caulking

Door swelling or sticking → Sand lightly & reseal

Loose hardware → Tighten hinges, handles, and locks

Flooring wear → Apply stain or sealant for added protection

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3. Keep Pests Away

Garden sheds attract bugs, rodents, and spiders — especially in colder months.

How to Protect Your Shed:

Set pest traps inside corners and along walls

Seal any gaps, especially around windows and doors

Store fertilizer and soil in sealed containers

Keep the floor debris-free to discourage nesting

4. Maintain the Exterior Area

Plants and moisture can harm your shed if left unchecked.

Seasonal Exterior Care:

  • Clear shrubs, grass, and plants from touching the wood

    Maintain 3–5 inches (7.6–12.7 cm) of space between vegetation and the shed

    Remove debris, leaves, and mulch piled against the walls

    Ensure gutters (if applicable) are clear and draining properly

This reduces the risk of moisture buildup and improves airflow around the structure.

Wooden shed with gardening tools inside.
Wooden shed in forested setting.
Wooden shed surrounded by colorful flowers.
Cedar shed with open doors, flowers.

Why Western Red Cedar Sheds Perform Better Through the Seasons

Western Red Cedar naturally contains oils that protect it from insects, decay, and moisture — making it a high-performing wood for outdoor structures. It’s dimensionally stable, long-lasting, and sourced sustainably from responsibly managed North American forests.

Thinking About Upgrading Your Shed?

Explore Western Red Cedar sheds handcrafted in Canada — built for longevity, sustainability, and year-round performance.
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New Ideas for Using Coffee Grounds in Your Garden

Turn a daily habit into a simple, natural way to support healthier plants and soil.

Coffee grounds are often tossed away without a second thought, but they can be surprisingly useful in the garden. Rich in nutrients and organic matter, used coffee grounds can help improve soil structure, support composting, and benefit certain plants when applied correctly.

From boosting soil health to deterring pests, these practical ideas show how coffee grounds can be repurposed to support a thriving garden without relying on synthetic chemicals.

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Make Your Compost More Nutrient-Rich

Used coffee grounds are an excellent addition to compost piles. They are rich in nitrogen, which helps balance carbon-heavy materials like dried leaves, straw, or cardboard.

When added in moderation, coffee grounds help attract beneficial microorganisms and earthworms that speed up decomposition. Mixing grounds evenly into your compost pile prevents clumping and ensures nutrients are distributed throughout the finished compost.

Fertilize Your Garden Naturally

Because coffee grounds contain nitrogen and trace minerals, they can be used as a natural soil amendment for garden beds. When worked into the soil or composted first, they help replenish nutrients and improve soil texture.

Coffee grounds also help loosen compacted soil and support moisture retention, which is especially helpful in vegetable gardens and raised beds.

Support Acid-Loving Plants

Certain plants thrive in slightly acidic soil, and coffee grounds can help create a more favorable environment for them. Tomatoes, azaleas, rhododendrons, and blueberries often respond well when coffee grounds are added sparingly to the soil.

For best results, soak used coffee grounds in water overnight and use the diluted liquid to water acid-loving plants. This method provides nutrients without overwhelming the soil.

Encourage Healthy Rose Growth

Roses benefit from the nitrogen content and mild acidity found in coffee grounds. When added to compost or lightly mixed into the soil around rose bushes, coffee grounds can help promote lush foliage and strong blooms.

As with any soil amendment, moderation is key. A thin layer worked into the soil is more effective than piling grounds directly on the surface.

Use Coffee Grounds as Organic Mulch

Coffee grounds can act as a light organic mulch when applied correctly. They help retain moisture, reduce weed growth, and protect soil from erosion.

To avoid mold or compaction, apply only a thin layer and mix coffee grounds with other organic materials like leaves or bark mulch. This creates better airflow and prevents the grounds from forming a dense crust.

Help Deter Pets and Garden Pests

The strong scent and texture of coffee grounds can discourage cats from digging in garden beds. Sprinkling used grounds around plants or along garden borders can help keep unwanted visitors away.

Coffee grounds may also help deter slugs and snails when placed around vulnerable plants, providing a natural alternative to chemical pest controls.

Protect Plants From Certain Fungal Issues

Some gardeners use coffee grounds to help reduce the risk of fungal diseases in soil. While they are not a cure-all, the compounds found in coffee grounds may help suppress certain fungi when incorporated into compost or soil.

Healthy soil biology supported by organic matter is one of the best defenses against plant disease.

Influence Hydrangea Color

Hydrangea color is influenced by soil pH. In acidic soil, blooms tend to turn blue, while alkaline soil produces pink flowers.

Adding coffee grounds can help gradually lower soil pH, encouraging blue blooms over time. Consistency and patience are key, as changes happen gradually rather than instantly.

Boost Carrot Growth and Seed Protection

Some gardeners mix dried coffee grounds with carrot seeds before planting. This can help improve seed distribution and may deter pests during early growth stages.

Coffee grounds can also help improve soil texture, allowing carrot roots to grow straighter and more evenly.

Support Vermicomposting Systems

Coffee grounds can be added to vermicomposting bins in small amounts. They provide nitrogen and organic material that worms can process efficiently.

To keep worms healthy, avoid adding large quantities at once and balance coffee grounds with other compostable materials like vegetable scraps and shredded paper.

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10 Simple Ways to Improve Your Garden This Season

A beautiful garden doesn’t require a full redesign or a massive budget. With a few thoughtful updates and seasonal care, you can transform your outdoor space into something more inviting, functional, and enjoyable. Whether you’re refreshing an existing garden or improving what you already have, these simple ideas can make a noticeable difference.

Here are ten practical ways to improve your garden and create a space that looks great and feels intentional year after year.

1. Decorate Your Boundaries

Your garden’s boundaries help frame the entire space, so they deserve attention. Take a look at fences, walls, or hedges from inside your home and consider how they contribute to the overall view.

If boundaries look tired or outdated, simple upgrades like paint, wood treatment, climbing plants, or decorative panels can dramatically improve their appearance. Even small changes can turn a plain fence into a design feature.

Raised Garden bed 8x8 western red cedar outdoor living today

2. Plan Your Garden Borders

Garden borders help define planting areas and add structure to your landscape. If borders felt cluttered or underwhelming last season, this is a great time to refresh them.

Start by clearing old growth, improving the soil, and introducing new bulbs or perennials. Thoughtful borders add color, texture, and seasonal interest while keeping your garden looking organized.

Raised Garden Bed Greenhouse cover 5

3. Prune Trees and Shrubs for Shape and Health

Pruning is one of the most effective ways to refresh your garden without spending money. Trimming trees and shrubs helps maintain shape, encourages healthy growth, and improves light flow throughout the space.

When pruning, think about balance and cohesion. Consider how foliage texture, color, flowers, and even fruit can contribute to the overall design throughout the seasons.

a person holding a pair of pliers to a plant

4. Choose Pots and Containers Carefully

Containers play a bigger role in garden design than many people realize. Choosing the right size and material helps plants thrive while adding visual interest.

Larger pots provide better root space and stability, especially in windy areas. Materials like terracotta, galvanized metal, or wood can complement different garden styles. Quality containers last longer and are worth the investment.

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5. Add a Vegetable or Herb Garden

Growing your own food brings both beauty and function to your garden. Raised vegetable or herb beds are easy to manage and can fit into gardens of almost any size.

Use netting to protect plants from pests, and consider placing beds near your kitchen for easy access. A small edible garden adds life, texture, and purpose to your outdoor space.

a pile of green apples sitting next to each other

6. Include Features That Support Wildlife

Wildlife adds movement and life to any garden. Birds, bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects help with pollination and natural pest control.

You can encourage wildlife by choosing native plants, adding feeders or bird baths, and creating layered planting areas. A garden designed with nature in mind often feels more vibrant and balanced.

Lush green plants and foliage in a garden setting.

7. Think About Ground Surfaces

Surfaces play a major role in how a garden looks and functions. Paths, patios, and walkways guide movement and influence the overall feel of the space.

Instead of defaulting to basic concrete, consider decking, gravel, stone, or patterned tiles. The right surface can elevate your garden’s appearance while improving usability, especially in uneven areas.

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green tree near white wooden house during daytime

8. Create Beautiful Views

Not every part of a garden starts with a perfect view, but thoughtful design can change that. Use plants, structures, and focal points to draw the eye toward attractive features.

Rather than blocking an unattractive view entirely, try softening it with layered planting or shrubs. Enhancing good views makes the garden feel more expansive and intentional.

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The lake reflects the trees under a leafy frame.

9. Add Outdoor Structures

Structures like pergolas, gazebos, or garden sheds add both function and visual interest. Even a small structure can create a dedicated space for relaxing, entertaining, or storage.

These features help anchor your garden design and provide shelter, shade, or organization while enhancing the overall layout.

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Cozy Cabin Playhouse 9x7 Western Red Cedar Playhouse Outdoor Living Today Cedar Playhouse Kit 3

10. Introduce Water Features

Water features add sound, movement, and calm to a garden. A small pond, fountain, or bird bath can instantly elevate the atmosphere.

Water elements also attract wildlife and help create a peaceful outdoor retreat. Even compact features can have a big impact without overwhelming the space.

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mini garden pond

Create a Garden You’ll Enjoy Year After Year

Improving your garden doesn’t have to happen all at once. Small, thoughtful changes add up over time and help create an outdoor space that feels welcoming, balanced, and enjoyable.

With a little planning and care, your garden can become a place you love spending time in — season after season.

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DIY, How to, sheds

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How to Build an Outdoor Storage Shed: 5 Key Steps

Key construction stages to help you build with confidence.

Building your own outdoor storage shed is a practical way to reclaim garage space, organize tools, and add long-term value to your property. By breaking the build into a few clear stages, the process becomes far more manageable for DIYers of all skill levels.

5 Easy Steps

1. Prepare the Foundation and Frame

Start by choosing and preparing the location for your shed. Clear and level the ground where the shed will sit to ensure long-term stability. Place concrete or cinder blocks at the corners to elevate the structure and protect it from ground moisture.

Once the base is ready, construct the frame using pressure-treated lumber. Cut posts to size, ensure everything is square and level, and securely anchor the frame. A solid foundation and frame are critical, as they support every part of the shed that follows.

2. Build the Floor Deck

With the frame in place, build the floor deck. Install floor joists evenly across the frame and secure them firmly. Once the joists are set, attach the decking material on top, ensuring a slight overhang at the edges for proper water runoff.

A well-built floor provides strength, durability, and a stable surface for storing heavy equipment like lawn mowers or wheelbarrows.

3. Construct and Secure the Walls

Next, assemble the wall panels by connecting studs to top and bottom plates. Build each wall section flat on the ground, then raise and secure them to the deck and to each other.

Make sure the walls are square and properly aligned before reinforcing the structure with additional framing at the top. If your shed includes a door or windows, frame those openings carefully at this stage.

4. Install the Roof and Exterior Siding

Once the walls are secure, move on to the roof. Attach roof rafters, connect them with support strips, and install the roofing panels or shingles according to your design. A properly installed roof protects the shed from rain, snow, and long-term weather damage.

After the roof is complete, apply exterior siding to the walls. This not only improves appearance but also adds an extra layer of protection against the elements. Vinyl or wood siding are both popular, durable options depending on your style and maintenance preferences.

5. Add Doors, Windows, and Final Features

Finish the shed by installing doors, windows, and any additional features that improve usability. Windows bring in natural light, while sturdy doors provide security and easy access. You may also add interior storage cubbies, shelves, or a potting bench to customize the space.

For added convenience, consider building a ramp at the entrance to make it easier to move heavy equipment in and out of the shed.

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4x2 Garden Chalet Shed Garden shed Western Red Cedar cedar shed Outdoor Living Today 14
4x2 Garden Chalet Shed Garden shed Western Red Cedar cedar shed Outdoor Living Today 13
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DIY Outdoor Projects You Can Finish in an Hour

Ten simple, budget-friendly ideas to transform your backyard with minimal tools and time.

If you have an outdoor space and aren’t sure how to make the most of it, a few simple DIY projects can completely transform how it looks and feels. The best part? Many impactful outdoor upgrades can be completed in about an hour with minimal tools and budget.

Here are ten easy DIY outdoor projects that add comfort, function, and personality to your backyard.

1. DIY Vertical Herb Garden

You don’t need a large yard to grow greenery. A vertical garden is perfect for patios, balconies, and small outdoor spaces.

Use a hanging shoe organizer, wall-mounted planters, or a wooden pallet to grow herbs like basil, rosemary, oregano, and chives. Hang it in a sunny spot and water regularly.

green leaves

2. Natural Ways to Reduce Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes can quickly ruin an evening outdoors. Instead of chemical sprays, try natural solutions.

DIY citronella candles, mosquito-repelling plants (like citronella grass, lavender, and mint), or even a simple box fan can make a big difference.

Helpful resources:

https://www.epa.gov/mosquitocontrol

A bug sitting on top of a green leaf

3. Play Music Outside

Music instantly changes the mood of an outdoor space. Portable Bluetooth speakers or weather-resistant outdoor speakers are easy to set up and store.

If you want to go further, consider building speakers into a table or bench, or using floating waterproof speakers for pool areas.

selective focus silhouette photography of man playing red-lighted DJ terminal

4. DIY Outdoor Movie Night

Turn your backyard into a movie theatre in under an hour. All you need is a portable projector and a foldable screen or white sheet.

Pair it with blankets, floor cushions, and string lights for a cozy experience the whole family will love.

clap board roadside Jakob and Ryan

5. Outdoor Yard Games for Kids and Adults

Life-size versions of classic games like Jenga, cornhole, or ring toss are easy DIY builds and fun for all ages.

These games are great for gatherings and can be stored neatly in a shed or playhouse when not in use.

a small child swinging a bat at a ball

6. DIY Outdoor Oven

Create a simple outdoor oven using terracotta pots, sand, and a metal bucket. This DIY project works well for flatbreads, naan, and even pizza.

Solar ovens made from cardboard and foil are another fun option, especially for kids.

a couple of pieces of meat cooking in an oven

7. DIY Smoker

You don’t need an expensive smoker to enjoy slow-cooked flavors. Old flower pots or a modified grill can work surprisingly well.

This is a great project for weekend cooks who enjoy experimenting outdoors.

red bird on black and silver outdoor grill

8. Simple Outdoor Canopy

Create instant shade with four posts and a weather-resistant drop cloth or outdoor fabric. This quick canopy adds comfort for dining, lounging, or entertaining.

Close-up view of a yellow umbrella with white polka dots.

9. DIY Mason Jar Outdoor Lights

Mason jar lights are a classic outdoor upgrade. Add battery-powered LED lights or solar inserts and hang them from hooks or trees.

They’re perfect for patios, pergolas, and garden paths.

clear glass jar with white lid

10. Mini Fire Pit or Flaming Bowl

A tabletop fire pit or flaming bowl creates ambiance without a full backyard build. Many DIY versions use concrete bowls, gel fuel, or propane kits.

photo of flames on firepit
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DIY, sheds

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She Sheds: A Backyard Retreat Designed Just for You

She Sheds: A Backyard Retreat Designed Just for You

Man caves have had their moment. Today, more women are carving out personal backyard spaces that reflect who they are, what they love, and how they recharge. Enter the she shed — a private retreat just steps from home, designed entirely on your terms.

A she shed isn’t about escaping responsibility. It’s about creating space. Space to breathe, think, create, relax, and enjoy a little uninterrupted time of your own. Whether tucked into a quiet corner of the yard or styled as a garden focal point, a she shed offers something many homes can’t: intentional solitude.

Why a She Shed Works

Between family, work, and everyday responsibilities, personal time can feel scarce. A she shed gives you a dedicated place to step away from daily noise and refocus — without ever leaving home.

Many women find that having a private outdoor retreat helps reduce stress, boost creativity, and restore a sense of balance. It becomes a space where only you decide what happens next. No interruptions. No expectations. Just time that’s yours.

And the best part? A she shed can be anything you want it to be.

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What You Can Do in Your She Shed

Your she shed should reflect your personality and passions. Some popular ways to use the space include:

  1. A creative studio for painting, writing, crafting, or photography
  2. A quiet reading nook filled with books, soft lighting, and comfortable seating
  3. A home office or focus zone for remote work or personal projects
  4. A cozy lounge or tea room to relax, reflect, or catch up with friends
  5. A meditation or wellness space for journaling, yoga, or mindfulness

There are no rules. Whether you use it daily or whenever you need a reset, your she shed exists to support you.

Use Your Imagination

This is where a she shed truly shines. Unlike rooms inside the house, this space doesn’t have to meet anyone else’s expectations.

Paint it bright white for a classic look or lean into soft pastels, rich textures, or vintage charm. Reuse furniture, display meaningful keepsakes, or add decorative lighting for a warm, welcoming glow. Flower boxes, climbing plants, and garden paths can help blend your shed naturally into its surroundings.

Even older sheds can be transformed with simple updates like fresh paint, larger windows, or improved lighting. A little creativity goes a long way in turning something functional into something special.

Getting Started

If you already have a backyard shed, you’re halfway there. Start by deciding how you want to use the space, then refresh it with paint, décor, and lighting that make it feel inviting.

If you’re starting from scratch, there are plenty of DIY and prefabricated shed options available. From rustic charm to modern design, the structure itself can be as unique as the retreat it becomes.

A Space for Happy Moments

While a she shed is often a place for solitude, it can also be a beautiful setting for connection. Host a small gathering, celebrate a milestone, or simply enjoy a quiet evening watching the rain fall outside your window.

More than anything, a she shed is about intention. It’s a space that reminds you to slow down, tune in, and enjoy moments that are just for you.

Your backyard retreat is closer than you think — and it’s ready to become your happy place.

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How to Create a Kid-Friendly Backyard

Simple, creative ways to turn your outdoor space into a place for play, imagination, and everyday adventure.

When you have kids, you want to make sure they spend enough time outdoors to burn energy, explore their creativity, and simply be kids. With a little planning, your backyard can become a thrilling and fun adventure space—without disrupting your landscaping or turning your yard into chaos.

The good news is that creating a kid-friendly backyard doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. A few thoughtful features can transform your outdoor space into a place your kids will love and use every day.

Below are a few simple, creative ideas to help you design a backyard that encourages movement, imagination, and rest.

Laurens Cottage 9x9 Playhouse Western Red CEdar Outdoor Living Today Childrens Playhouse 9

Jungle Exploration

Create a sense of adventure by dedicating one corner of your backyard to a mini “jungle.” Plant tall grasses, ornamental shrubs, or weeping trees to add height and texture. Lay stepping stones to form a winding path that invites exploration and pretend play.

You can even plant giant sunflowers or place a large, smooth boulder for climbing. This type of space encourages kids to let their imaginations run wild while naturally drawing them outdoors—away from screens and electronics.

To keep things safe, trim plants regularly and avoid dense ground cover that could become a hiding spot for unwanted critters.

Scribbling Area

Every kid needs a place to create—and preferably one that isn’t your house walls.

Mount an outdoor chalkboard to a fence or wall and you instantly have a dedicated scribbling and drawing station. Chalk is easy to clean, and a chalkboard keeps little artists from decorating your cedar fencing or patio surfaces.

This simple addition gives kids a creative outlet while keeping messes contained and easy to manage.

Bring the Beach to Your Backyard

If your kids love sand and water play, bring the beach home. Instead of a traditional sandbox, consider digging a shallow, gently sloped pit and lining it with landscaping plastic before filling it with sand.

For added fun, place smooth stones around the edge or leave space in the center for evening marshmallow roasting while adults relax nearby. It’s a versatile space that works for daytime play and family evenings alike.

Haven for Creatures

Kids are naturally fascinated by nature. Encourage observation and curiosity by creating a backyard that welcomes birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects.

Plant colorful flowers, hang a simple bird feeder, or make one together using a terracotta container and jute rope. Watching birds and butterflies helps kids develop patience, awareness, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world—all while spending time outdoors.

A Place to Rest and Recoup

After all that running, climbing, and exploring, kids need a place to slow down.

A shaded rest area gives children somewhere to cool off, sip lemonade, and recharge. A gazebo is an excellent option, especially if you choose a DIY kit with pre-cut components that’s easy to assemble.

With comfortable outdoor seating and a few potted plants, this space becomes a calm retreat that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. An all-season gazebo even allows for outdoor use when the weather turns cooler, extending the usefulness of your backyard year-round.

Create a Backyard That Grows With Your Kids

A kid-friendly backyard doesn’t need to be overdesigned. The best outdoor spaces balance active play, creativity, and rest, while leaving room for kids to shape the space through their imagination.

With a few intentional features, your backyard can become a place where kids explore, learn, and make memories—right outside your door.

Need inspiration? Take a look at how other families are transforming their outdoor spaces and start creating a backyard your kids will love to grow up in.

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Children playing in a wooden playhouse.
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Enhance Your Garden with a Cedar Gazebo: Uses, Materials & Buying Guide

 

Transform your outdoor living space!

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Looking to enhance your outdoor space and add usable square footage to your home? A cedar gazebo is a beautiful and functional way to upgrade your backyard. Whether you’re entertaining guests, relaxing solo, or creating a year-round retreat, gazebos offer endless possibilities.

What Is a Gazebo?

A gazebo is a freestanding outdoor structure with a roof and open sides, typically built in a garden or backyard. Common gazebo shapes include octagonal, hexagonal, rectangular, and square. Some gazebos have half-walls or screens between the support posts, while others are fully enclosed and built for all-season use.

Western Red Cedar gazebos are particularly popular due to their natural resistance to rot, insects, and decay, making them ideal for outdoor use in various climates.

4 Creative Ways to Use Your Backyard Gazebo

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1. Outdoor Relaxation Retreat

Create a cozy outdoor nook by adding lounge chairs, cushions, and a small table. Use your cedar gazebo as a private escape to enjoy a good book, sip iced tea, or just unwind in nature.

2. Backyard Entertaining Hub

Host BBQs, birthday parties, or summer dinners under the shade of your gazebo. Add string lights or lanterns for ambiance. Gazebos near pools make perfect shaded lounging spots to keep an eye on kids while chatting with guests.

3. Fitness & Wellness Zone

Practice yoga, stretch, or meditate in your gazebo. Surrounded by greenery and away from indoor distractions, it becomes an ideal space for mental and physical well-being.

4. Hot Tub Enclosure

Install a gazebo around your hot tub to provide year-round privacy and protection from the elements. A cedar structure enhances the spa experience while blending seamlessly into the landscape.

Why Choose a Cedar Gazebo?

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When shopping for a gazebo, material matters. Western Red Cedar is one of the most popular choices thanks to its:

  • Durability: Naturally resists rot and decay

  • Pest resistance: Cedar’s aroma deters insects

  • Aesthetic appeal: Warm tones and beautiful grain patterns

  • Workability: Lightweight and easy to assemble

Cedar also gives your backyard a timeless, upscale look that integrates beautifully into natural surroundings.

How to Get a Cedar Gazebo for Your Yard

You have a few options for adding a gazebo to your property:

1. DIY Build from Scratch

Purchase raw lumber and design your own gazebo. This option requires carpentry experience, planning, and access to tools.

2. Hire a Professional

Work with a contractor to custom-build your gazebo. This offers more flexibility in design but comes with a higher cost.

3. Purchase a Gazebo Kit

The easiest and most popular option for homeowners is buying a pre-cut or panelized gazebo kit. Outdoor Living Today offers high-quality Western Red Cedar gazebo kits that come with all the required hardware, instructions, and pre-cut pieces.

Gazebo kits allow for faster assembly and fewer design headaches, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit your space and lifestyle.

Expand Your Outdoor Living Today

Adding a gazebo to your backyard isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about lifestyle. It provides a beautiful, functional space to enjoy nature, host guests, or simply relax. Whether you’re investing in a hot tub enclosure or creating your personal garden retreat, a cedar gazebo kit makes the process simple, stylish, and satisfying.

Explore Western Red Cedar gazebo kits at Outdoor Living Today and transform your yard into the outdoor oasis you deserve.

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How to Keep a Lawn Fresh and Green

Lawn Care Tips for a Healthier, Greener Backyard

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A lush, healthy lawn doesn’t need to rely on harsh chemicals. With eco-friendly lawn care practices gaining popularity, homeowners across North America are learning how to grow green lawns using sustainable methods that benefit both their yards and the environment. Here’s how you can care for your lawn organically year-round, from mowing and watering to aerating and fertilizing.

🌱 Why Eco-Friendly Lawn Care Matters

Historically, lawn care has involved heavy use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. But overuse led to environmental harm and eventual legislation. Today, more homeowners are turning to organic lawn care practices—reducing chemical use while improving soil health, biodiversity, and water retention.

With the right care, your lawn can naturally resist pests and weeds without synthetic treatments. Start by embracing best practices that prioritize soil health, proper mowing, and sustainable watering methods.

💧 Watering Wisely

  • Summer Watering Tips: In hotter months, water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root systems. Overwatering leads to shallow roots and rotting.

  • New Lawns: Newly seeded lawns need consistent moisture. Consider a sprinkler system or soaker hose to maintain even hydration.

  • Invest in Irrigation: Drip irrigation or programmable systems help reduce water waste and ensure consistent coverage.

🌾 Aerate for Healthy Soil

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  • When to Aerate: Aerate your lawn during the growing season (spring through fall) when soil is moist—either after a rain or a good watering.

  • Why Aeration Helps: Loosening compacted soil allows roots to breathe and water/nutrients to penetrate deeper. It also prevents thatch buildup and promotes microbial activity.

🌿 Organic Fertilizing and Feeding

  • Use Natural Fertilizers: Apply compost, worm castings, or organic fertilizer blends based on your soil’s needs.

  • Leave the Clippings: Grasscycling—leaving clippings on the lawn—returns nitrogen to the soil naturally.

  • Know Your Seasons:

    • Spring & Summer: Use nitrogen-rich fertilizers to promote growth.

    • Fall: Apply a lower-nitrogen blend to strengthen roots.

Pro Tip: Water within 2–3 days of fertilizing if it doesn’t rain to help nutrients absorb properly.

✂️ Mowing Best Practices

  • Mow by Season:

    • Spring: Expect rapid growth; mow more frequently.

    • Summer: Once a week is often ideal.

    • Fall: Bi-weekly mowing may suffice.

    • Winter: Avoid mowing in cold climates—let the grass rest.

  • Keep It Sharp: Dull mower blades tear grass, leading to browning.

  • Compost the Clippings: Turn them into rich organic matter for your garden or reuse directly on the lawn.

🌾 Weed Control Without Chemicals

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  • pH Matters: Test your soil—acidic soil can encourage weed growth.

  • Preventive Measures: A healthy, thick lawn shades out weed seeds naturally.

  • Manual Weeding: Pull weeds by hand or use a weed popper tool.

  • Organic Herbicides: Use vinegar-based solutions or corn gluten meal as a natural pre-emergent.

🌤 Seasonal Lawn Care Schedule

  • Spring: Aerate, fertilize, begin mowing. Watch for new weed growth.

  • Summer: Water early morning or evening; adjust mowing frequency. Spot treat any weed issues.

  • Autumn: Fertilize with root-boosting blends, rake leaves, and mow lower in final weeks.

  • Winter: Rest your lawn. Avoid walking on frozen turf to prevent damage.

🌍 Build a Sustainable Lawn

Lawn care doesn’t need to rely on chemicals. By focusing on soil health, watering smartly, and sticking to an eco-conscious lawn care routine, you’ll cultivate a resilient lawn that looks good—and does good for the environment. Whether you’re a beginner or a lawn care enthusiast, going organic is better for you, your pets, and your planet.

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Budget-Friendly Backyard Entertainment Ideas

Transform Your Backyard on a Budget

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You don’t need a fancy deck, grand cedar gazebo, or in-ground pool to enjoy your backyard. With a little creativity, you can create a fun, relaxing, and entertaining outdoor space your guests and family will love.

1. Hang Solar Lamps from Trees

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Repurpose an old chandelier using solar lights and hang it from a tree branch. No wiring or electrical work needed—just beautiful ambient lighting that charges during the day and glows at night.

2. DIY Bird Nesting Station

Fill a suet feeder with 4–8″ scraps of yarn. Birds will use them to build colorful nests. This simple project attracts local wildlife and offers a fun nature-watching opportunity.

3. Wind Chimes from Old Keys

Craft soothing wind chimes using old keys, acrylic paint, string, and a piece of driftwood. Paint the keys in bright colors, then string and hang them close together so they chime in the breeze.

4. Splash Pad Using a Tarp

Turn a clean tarp into a backyard splash pad. Add a sprinkler or hopscotch mat and let the water do the rest! Kids can slip, slide, and stay cool while you relax nearby with your feet in the water.

5. Kickball Croquet with Pool Noodles

Cut pool noodles in half to form arches, secure them to the lawn with garden stakes, and play a game of croquet—kickball style! Great for backyard parties and family fun.

6. Build a Backyard Movie Theatre

All you need is a projector, DVD player, speakers, and a screen (like a sheet or blank wall). Set up lawn chairs or picnic blankets, make some popcorn, and enjoy movie night under the stars.

Pro Tip: Use a surge protector and outdoor extension cord for power. Don’t forget mosquito repellant or citronella candles!

7. Backyard Scrabble

Make a giant 5-foot Scrabble board with concrete tiles and custom wooden letter pieces. Use adhesive vinyl letters and lacquer to waterproof your tiles. It’s a great family game that gets everyone outdoors and thinking.

Final Thoughts

These budget-friendly backyard projects are perfect for summer weekends, birthday parties, or spontaneous get-togethers. Whether you’re looking for kid-friendly backyard games, relaxing outdoor vibes, or ways to enjoy nature, these ideas bring joy without breaking the bank.

Outdoor Living Today offers everything you need to create your perfect backyard—from cedar sheds to family-friendly accessories. Explore our collection and bring your DIY dreams to life!

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