SUNDAY, MARCH 29, 2026
7A
THE COASTLAND TIMES
Backyard bliss: Creating your own outdoor oasis this spring
By Danielle Puleo danielle.puleo@thecoastlandtimes.com
There is no better time than spring to reimagine your backyard as extended outdoor living. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying quiet mornings with coffee, or winding down under the stars, a thoughtfully designed outdoor space can transform everyday moments into something really special. Creating your own backyard oasis doesn’t require a complete overhaul. In fact, some of the most inviting outdoor spaces are built on a foundation of simple, intentional upgrades that balance comfort, function and style. Start by defining your space. Just like the rooms inside your home, your yard can benefit from having designated areas. Consider how you want to use the space: dining, lounging, entertaining, or all of the above, and arrange your layout accordingly. An outdoor dining table anchors gatherings, while a cozy seating area with cushioned furniture invites conversation and
relaxation. Comfort is key when it comes to outdoor living. Investing in quality, weather-resistant furniture makes all the difference, especially in coastal climates where moisture and sun exposure can take a toll. Layering in outdoor rugs, throw pillows and soft blankets helps create a space that feels just as welcoming as your living room, only with a better view. Lighting is one of the most transformative elements you can add. As the sun sets, the right lighting can shift your backyard from functional to magical. String lights draped overhead, lanterns lining a walkway, or subtle landscape lighting can create a warm, inviting glow that encourages you to linger outside long after dusk. To elevate the experience even further, consider adding a focal point. Fire pits and outdoor fireplaces provide both ambiance and functionality, extending the use of your space into cooler evenings. Water features,
like small fountains, can add a sense of calm with the gentle sound of flowing water. Even a simple statement piece like a pergola or a beautifully styled seating area can define your oasis and give it character. Don’t forget the power of greenery! Potted plants, raised garden beds, or lush landscaping can soften hard surfaces and bring life to your outdoor design. Mixing textures and heights (think tall grasses, flowering plants and trailing vines) creates visual interest while enhancing the overall atmosphere. Finally, consider the little details that make a big impact. An outdoor bar cart, a set of durable serving pieces, or even a Bluetooth speaker can make entertaining seamless and enjoyable. Shade solutions, like umbrellas or pergolas, ensure your space stays comfortable even on the warmest days. At its heart, an outdoor oasis is about creating a space that invites you to slow down and savor the season.
Don’t let the bugs bite: Easy ways to reclaim your yard By Danielle Puleo danielle.puleo@thecoastlandtimes.com
With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, outdoor living becomes one of the season’s greatest pleasures. But nothing disrupts a backyard gathering faster than the constant buzz of flies and mosquitoes. Fortunately, with a few proactive steps, and insight from a local expert, you can significantly reduce pests and enjoy your yard in peace. “With the rain and warmer temperatures, fly and mosquito activity will ramp up,” says Jessie Hancock Midgett, general manager at Outer Banks Pest Control, Inc. “That moisture is really what triggers them. They start hatching out in mulch areas and any kind of marshy or spongy areas
of the yard.” Because of this, the first line of defense is eliminating standing water. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, and it doesn’t take much: birdbaths, clogged gutters, plant saucers, and even forgotten toys can become breeding grounds. Midgett recommends refreshing birdbath water every few days or using a solar-powered fountain to keep water moving. Homeowners should also be mindful of pet water bowls and turn over empty pots or containers after rain to prevent water from collecting. Sanitation plays a bigger role than many homeowners realize. “Any sort of animal droppings attracts flies, so cleaning up after pets is really important,” Midgett notes. The same
goes for outdoor trash cans and grills. Keeping bins clean and sealed, and regularly emptying grease traps after cooking, can help eliminate common attractants. Landscaping and yard maintenance are equally important in controlling pests. Overgrown grass, dense shrubs, and piles of yard debris create ideal hiding and breeding spots. “If you have a pile of debris or yard waste, it needs to be cleared out,” Midgett explains. “Those areas hold moisture and quickly become breeding grounds.” Keeping your lawn trimmed and ensuring proper drainage, like extending gutters away from the home, can go a long way in reducing problem areas. For those who compost, See BED BUGS, 8A