Page 11 2023 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April/May 2023 In May, Starla prepares the tropical plants to take to the porch after they have been inside all winter. Everything looks a little shabby, so she cleans up the porch and places the plants on it. To make the plants look better, she trims dead leaves and branches. By June, the plants are steadily growing and by September, these plants have really bloomed. One reminder Starla gives is to water the plants often and feed them weekly. As her video shows all the different plants, Starla hopes to inspire others. She says you should check out local greenhouses and big box stores to see what is on sale. That way, you can make your porch a place of refuge of beauty and nature that reflects the creator. Plants are just one way to turn your porch into an outdoor oasis. Another way is to add décor. Jessica of Old Barn Design shows step by step instructions for creating an outdoor oasis. When designing and building a home, Jessica imagined an outdoor space, picturing space she could sip coffee nicely and slowly each morning. She hoped it would be a place where her electronic junkie kids would want to unplug and unwind. Additionally, she pictured it as a space where her friends and family who were visiting would feel relaxed like they were on vacation. Jessica wanted the space to be comfortable enough that people would stay for hours, deep in conversation or playing games or taking a nap. She thought about places where she felt relaxed and noticed things in those spaces that helped her feel that way. In creating this relaxing space, the first step is to start with a neutral base including a neutral rug, sofa and chair. Tan or beige can keep things very calm. Furniture can create a cozy conversation area where everyone in the space can see and talk to one another. When adding pops of color, Jessica went with navy and white because she felt these colors gave the porch a calm lake vibe. More vibrant colors can provide a more energetic feel. Choose colors that go with the personality, look and style you are going for. Be sure to add plants to give the space life and movement. Using wildflowers and ferns gives Jessica’s porch a southern relaxed look. If you are spending time in an area, providing an activity is a good plan. Some activities Jessica says she uses include games, books or cards. You might even want to set up pecans to be shelled. Making smores is another fun outdoor activity. Next, you should incorporate outdoor elements. Though the space is outdoors, Jessica says it should feel comfortable no matter the weather. Adding blankets, a ceiling fan or portable air conditioner can make the space feel comfortable in various weather. Continued --
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