Different Things to Put in My Yard for Decorations

Lights

• Hanging lights can instantly transform any yard into a romantic garden or tropical oasis. For a softer feeling, wrap white twinkle lights around railings and posts. For a bolder look, choose colored lights. You can also buy strands of miniature lanterns. Hang them across the edge of your roof or around the umbrella of a patio table. Hook up the lights to a plug with an outdoor extension cord. Whatever type you choose, read the package to ensure the lights are safe for outdoor use. Hang lights using plastic hooks, as these won't damage the strand wires.

Water Feature

• The soothing sounds of babbling water will relax anyone who visits your yard. A water feature doesn't have to be an expensive object installed by a landscaper. Buy your own small fountain from a garden or department store and set it up yourself. Arrange the fountain in a corner of the yard or near a seating area so you'll be able to hear it. You can also easily buy and set up your own bird bath if you'd like to have backyard visitors.

Painted Pots

• Even if you're not the most talented gardener, brightly-painted pots will make your yard look like welcoming. Buy plain terra-cotta pots from a garden store. Paint them with oil-based enamel paints, which will make them shine. Each pot will require two or three coats of paint. Let the pots dry overnight, then get planting. Grow your own flowers or herbs, or buy potted plants from a garden store. Group your pots together near the base of your steps or spread them out to line a fence.

Birdhouse

• Birdhouses bring color, decoration and entertainment to your yard. Set up one or more houses, then observe the creatures that come to visit. You can buy birdhouses in different sizes and styles from a garden or home improvement store. If you can't find one that exactly fits your style, buy a plain wooden birdhouse and paint it yourself. To create your own house, use a mailbox. Plant the post of the mailbox stand in the ground or use nails to attach the box part only to a tree branch. Open the front of the box so birds can fly inside.