Lawn and Garden Decorations

Furniture

• If you live by yourself and spend time in your garden alone, you will probably only want a few chairs and a small table for beverages. A hammock is a nice touch, but if you don't have two sturdy trees close together, there are many hammocks available that come with frames. If you have adult friends over, invest in a patio set with a table and several chairs. A fire bowl for cool evenings makes a great focal point. If your yard has few trees where guests will be seated, purchase a large umbrella or awning to shade your table area. If you have many children come to play in the yard, consider purchasing one large play set that will reside in one corner instead of small toys that will be scattered all over the yard.

Plants and Flowers

• If the look you are going for is a formal one, plan hedges and plants that can be trimmed at angles and set out in straight rows. Purchase planters and pots in pairs or threes to create symmetry. If you are trying for a simple, informal garden, include several hanging pots and trellises where bright flowers can grow in abandon and abundance. Good choices for this type of garden are honeysuckle and wisteria vines, rose bushes and marigolds.

Statues and Fountains

• A statue or a fountain can make a beautiful focal point for your garden that pulls all the elements together. Keep in mind that a statue should be made of weather-resistant materials and should complement the nature of the rest of your garden. Purchase one large statue, or several small ones that match each other, such as several garden gnomes doing different activities or forest animals. When deciding on a fountain, remember that it will need regular maintenance and cleaning.

Bird and Butterfly Attractants

• Many birds and animals are welcome to a garden because they are fun to watch and help keep down the insect population. Hang nectar and seed feeders from tree branches and under awnings, and keep them clean and well stocked. Birdhouses should be hung several feet from the house and away from pets so that babies will not be disturbed. There are several varieties of flowers that will attract butterflies and hummingbirds; check with a local plant nursery to find out which types will do the best in your area.