Summer is the time to dust off those projects that have been sitting in the back of one’s mind and get to work. Projects do not need to be big scale or super expensive either. They can be small or something that involves the whole family. The warm weather outside allows for a range of home improvement projects that would otherwise be impossible in the rain or snow. Here are some classic summer projects for landscaping in Loveland that can transform a backyard and don’t cost an arm and a leg!

Install a Tree Swing

This is one of the easiest and quickest projects one can do. Get some rope and a board out on a free afternoon and build a tree swing. If there are kids in the home, they will most definitely be overjoyed to play on a swing. For the adults, this can be a great way to keep young ones occupied and spend more time outdoors.

First, find a tree that is healthy and sturdy. This tree should be clear of bushes, other trees, structures, and other such obstructions. A branch that is tough enough to handle a swing should be at least eight inches in diameter. Ideally, it should be ten to fifteen inches off the ground. A branch that is higher than that will cause wider swinging arcs and put children in danger.

For the seat of the swing, use dense hardwood such as oak and maple that will be durable and unlikely to split under pressure. Cut out the seat using a hand saw. Using the hand saw, round the edges of the seat to avoid it poking children and causing injury. Use anything to mark the rounds, such as the bottom of a can. Then, sand the seat using a rotary sander or simple sandpaper. All surfaces, including the edges of the seat, should be sanded.

Next, using a power drill, drill holes into each end of the seat for the rope. The holes should be an inch from the edge of the seat and centered and aligned with the long edges. Use anchor shackles to attach chains to the branch and then tie the rope to the anchor shackles securely, and set the anchors. Cut the rope and seal its ends by lighting the ends of the rope. Melting the ends of the rope this way prevents fraying. Finally, attach the seat.

All the supplies and tools needed for the job can be found in any landscaping store in Loveland.

Build a Potting Bench

A potting bench is a sort of workbench that serves as a place to accomplish gardening tasks, whatever that may be. Think of a potting bench as a study table but for gardeners. One difference between a potting bench and a regular workbench is that the latter is built with a standing person in mind. Along with that, just as a regular workbench, it has shelves and compartments built in for tools, supplies, pots, potting soil, etc. In addition to being a workbench, it adds character to a space by offering a rustic accent.

A potting bench can be a DIY project where an old dresser can be remodeled into a potting bench. The drawers can be replaced with shelves. This is a great way to recycle old furniture into a more useful object. If not an old dresser, lumber can be used as well.

Add Character to Windows with a Window Box

A window box is a flower container that is placed on and just below a window sill. In a way, it frames a window with live flowers. This adds incredible aesthetic value and greenery to the home and gives character to the windows. For those that do not have a front garden, this can be a lovely way to incorporate some sort of greenery.

It is quite a simple project and can be done in just a day. To build a window box, the tools and supplies needed are:

• Table saw
• Sandpaper
• Safety goggles
• Drill
• Screws

As the window box is primarily for aesthetic purposes, one would most likely want to paint it to compliment the window's colors and style or the house's theme.

Hang a Bird Feeder Up

There are an endless number of bird feeder designs, and something as simple as a used, empty water bottle can be built into a bird feeder. Some of the most common types of bird feeders that are easy to make are:

• Suet bird feeder
• Tray bird feeder
• Tube bird feeder

It is hard to go wrong with building a bird feeder. Even a lego bird feeder can be built. There are many creative ways to not only build a bird feeder but also entice the young ones to participate. This summer project can be a lifesaver for birds in the winter as it provides heat, respite, and food.

Bird feeders can also be a great way to help young ones learn about the different types of birds and get them interested in paying attention to nature and caring for it.

Other Backyard Improvement Ideas

Other more complicated projects include:

• Garden beds: Perfect for growing flowers, herbs, or vegetables.
• Trellis for climbing vines: Adds vertical beauty and is great for small spaces.
• Bird bath: Provides a refreshing space for birds while enhancing garden aesthetics.
• Garden path: Use pavers, gravel, or stones to create a walkway.

The ideas are endless. The choice depends on one’s needs and the type of space they have available. However, no matter the size of the space, there is always something to do to improve the yard area. For those looking for guidance on what the right tools are and how to use them, landscaping supply in Fort Collins or landscaping supply in Loveland can help. With the correct help, even a beginner can execute these projects easily.