By Lori Bosworth
Although we’ve been battling a seemingly extended winter season in Toronto, summer will sneak up on us before we know it. So it’s a good time now to get your backyard patio ready for summer entertaining and relaxing. Sometimes just a few additional pieces are all that’s needed to transform your patio into a backyard oasis. Here are some inexpensive options to give new life to your patio and get you ready for outdoor living.
A few planters here and there will add vibrant colour to your backyard patio. This Pebble Planter from Home Depot, $56, not only looks stylish, but it’s made from  The neutral gray finish will contrast beautifully with yellow, orange or red flowers.
Whether you’re enjoying cocktails or ice tea in the backyard, you don’t want any breakage! Investing in some plastic drinkware will prevent broken glass on the patio. The Tulum Acrylic Drinkware Set, $22-$26, from Pottery Barn is a superb blend of style and function. Also available in blue and turquoise.
These Hanging Pillar Jar Hurricanes from Pier 1 Imports bring the pretty to your patio. Varying sizes range in price from $40-$130.
Along with the steaks, chicken and shrimp, you’ll want to make sure your veggies get the barbecue treatment as well. This grill basket from Giant Tiger, $5, is well designed to keep cut-up veggies from slipping out of the basket on to the grill. The grid squares are just large enough to ensure your veggies get grilled without them slipping through. The top of the basket easily slides open so that you can place vegetables in the basket and secures shut with a metal loop.
You’re not the only one who will find your backyard appealing during the summer. Unfortunately, our mosquito friends love hanging out in the backyard too. Consider placing a planter with one of the following herbs to repel mosquitoes: lavender, feverfew citronella or catnip.
Just a few bright toss cushions will give your backyard a California vibe. This CANVAS Prescott Stripe Patio Toss Cushion from Canadian Tire will only set you back $14.99.
The Hampton Bay Ally Woven Accent Table, $69, available at Home Depot, offers versatility for your outdoor entertaining. The shelf can be removed to allow the table to be used as an umbrella stand.
