Your outdoor space—whether it’s a patio, porch, balcony, rooftop, or backyard—has the potential to become your favorite summer escape. It’s not about size; it’s about intention. We asked the Gardenuity community to share their favorite ways to upgrade their outdoor spaces, and the responses came from all corners—new moms finding moments of calm, college grads creating their first home oasis, and seasoned gardeners looking to add something fresh. We were inspired by their creativity and heart. Here are five garden-inspired ideas to bring beauty, comfort, and purpose to your summer sanctuary.
1. Create a Space for You: Your Garden & A Great Book
This is your moment of stillness. Choose a spot where you feel connected—somewhere you can sit, sip, and breathe in what’s growing.
Grow Pro tip: Look for a space with afternoon shade so you and your plants stay cooler during peak heat. Add a comfortable chair and make it yours.
Summer is the perfect time to grab a new book, a treasured favorite and put time on your calendar to get lost in your book. Bring your favorite book outside, sip on a big cup of ice tea and relax.
A few summer book recommendations came in from the Gardenuity community with all of the ideas. We wanted to share a few:
Business Pick
Your Life Is Manufactured by Tim Minshall
From the Financial Times summer roundup, Minshall examines the complexities of modern manufacturing—global supply chains, innovation challenges, and resilient leadership. A compelling read if you’re curious about the backbone of the global economy barnesandnoble.com+15ft.com+15theguardian.com+15.
Motivational / Personal Development
Atomic Habits by James Clear
A perennial favorite, this book helps readers build powerful, sustainable habits—1% at a time. Deloitte, startups, and individuals embrace its actionable framework for transformation. Perfect for a summer of self-growth and real change .
Romantic Beach Read
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
A warm, heartfelt summer romance about friendship, travel, and second chances. Emily Henry’s signature style—touching, witty, and emotionally rich—makes this the ultimate poolside read goodreads.com+15en.wikipedia.org+15southernliving.com+15.
Self‑Help / Mindfulness
The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
Hot off bestseller lists, Robbins’s latest motivational guide focuses on releasing what you can’t control and empowering yourself with daily decisions. Uplifting, practical, and refreshingly liberating .
Favorite to Reread Every Summer
Beach Read by Emily Henry
A summer classic that’s worth returning to year after year. Two writers swap genres—romance and literary fiction—and reconnect in the process. It’s funny, poignant, and the perfect feel-good staple for balmy afternoons forbes.com+8marieclaire.co.uk+8sunset.com+8.
2. Grow Scent, Not Just Style
Sure, your garden should look good—but how it smells can be just as powerful. Herbs like lavender, basil, mint, and rosemary release beautiful fragrances throughout the day, especially at dusk.
3. Keep Mosquitos Away—Naturally
Here’s what actually helps keep your space bite-free:
· Fans. Mosquitos are weak flyers—run a small fan near your seating area.
· Citronella, lemongrass, and mint. These herbs are stylish and functional.
· Dry soil between watering. Mosquitos breed in standing water, so keep trays and containers drained.
· Grow Pro tip: Place a bowl of crushed mint or rosemary on your table to release pest-repelling oils.
4. Add Cushions in Your Favorite Colors
Comfort meets joy. Outdoor cushions in happy hues or calming neutrals turn any garden corner into a true retreat. Our favorite fabric: Sunbrella—it’s weather-resistant, fade-proof, and perfect for seasonal outdoor bliss.
5. Hydrate Everything
Your garden needs water—and so do you.
Water your plants deeply in the early morning or evening. Then hydrate yourself with something infused and refreshing—try lemon verbena and orange slices, or this week’s Strawberry Sage Refresher [link to recipe].
Creating your own outdoor sanctuary doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with small, thoughtful choices—and let your garden do the rest.
The best garden spaces grow more than plants—they grow peace, presence, and joy.
