Winter is finally over, and summer is just around the corner! After the long, cold, and maybe even depressing winter, your backyard needs all of the sprucing up it can get. Use these 16 incredible backyard hacks to organize your yard, create some games, and ensure that you have the best summer possible.
Concrete Fireplace
eHow created this amazing tutorial for a cement fire pit. Regardless of if you do a lot of outdoor entertainment, these are the perfect focal point of your backyard. Plus, this is a great excuse to break out the marshmallows on a weekly basis!
Soak Before Sowing
Planting season is approaching quickly. For the most delicious veggies, or the most luscious flowers, Bloglovin suggests soaking your seeds in warm water 24 hours before sowing. This gives your plants the perfect head start, and is sure to make all of your plants thrive.
Ring Toss
 All you need for this super fun game is a pole in the ground, and several glow in the dark necklaces. It’s totally easy, and it will keep your kids entertained for hours. Playing a game like this on the Fourth of July would be the best way to celebrate!
All Natural Pest Control
Every gardener around has to deal with the yearly pest battle. If you are looking for a completely natural approach to keeping the critters out, place some old pine cones around the base of your plants. The texture will make it hard for the animals to walk around in your garden.
Homemade Water Bubble
If you find yourself exhausted and sweaty from the blazing sun on any given summer day, it may be time to make a water bubble! Homemade Toast is behind this incredible idea and all you need is plastic sheeting, an iron, duct tape, and parchment paper. This is the best way for your little ones (and maybe even yourself) to cool off and have some fun one afternoon.
Glow In the Dark
It’s pretty common to hang out in your backyard until it’s dark during the summer. Is there anything more relaxing than laying on the cool grass and listening to the crickets? We don’t think so. However, the lack of light could really cause a safety problem in your backyard. Instead of worrying about where you’re stepping, fill in the cracks of your garden pathway with glow in the dark pebbles. This small touch will make the biggest difference! The best part? You can paint the pebbles yourself, or purchase them!
DIY Garden Tool Holder
If you can’t seem to find that perfect place to store your tools, make one yourself! You can find the awesome tutorial on One Good Thing By Jillee. This incredible DIY project will keep your tools sharp, and the oil keeps them lubricated so rust doesn’t develop.
 
Pillow Quilt
Yes, you read that correctly. Instead of lounging around just on a blanket, create one using pillows. Simply sew together some old throw pillows and create the best surface for a picnic or outdoor movie.
Repurposed Edging
If you’re in need of some garden edging, but are running out of ideas, use your old wine bottles! This is a beautiful idea, and is a wonderful way to add a whimsical touch to your backyard space!
Green Teepee
Joyful Toddlers deserves all of the credit for this fun outdoor staple. How amazing would a nap be in the middle of this stunning teepee? Totally relaxing, and this is totally easy! It’s also enjoyable for all ages. Seriously.
Herb Gardens
 Herb Gardens are all the rage, and for good reason! They fit in virtually any area, and can be used as a decoration in your home. Nothing says summer quite like a sprig of fresh mint. Turn that old wooden box into a great outdoor (or even indoor!) herb garden. Just make sure to add some cute chalkboard markers so you know which plant is what!
Get Clean!Â
One of the best parts of summer is walking around barefoot. However, this can get to be not so fun if you have muddy footprints scattered about your home. Create a footwashing station out of a box filled with flat stones. They’ll feel amazing on your feet, and you won’t have any problems with muddy floors.
Handy Storage Space
Instead of getting up and walking across the yard to the cooler to replenish your lemonade, create a DIY cooler in the center of your outdoor table. Use these directions for the best table around. You won’t have to get up to refill your drink, which could be a little dangerous..
Skateboard Swing
Chances are, if you have little boys, you have so many skateboards laying around. If you feel overwhelmed by the boards, turn one of them into an outdoor swing. This project from Little Bit Funky takes less than 20 minutes, and costs even less than that.
Lawn Drawings
Bring some festivity to your own yard using flour and stencils. Create a stencil with your kiddos, and fill it in with flour. The flour creates a contrast on your grass, and is much less toxic than paint. The possibilities are endless!
Kick Off Your Boots
Instead of buying expensive planters, make some instead! Use a pair (or two or three) of old rain boots to plant your favorite flowers or veggies. Hang them on your fence for a decorative backyard touch. Instructions can be found on The Chic Site.
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