Longer days, more sunshine, singing birds and warm breezes all welcome and beckon us to go outside and enjoy the beauty of summer. Your yard and garden should be a retreat, a place to sit, talk, read or simply look at the stars. Some of the following suggestions can improve your landscape and create a more desirable escape.

Add plants and flowers that not only appeal to you visually but also appeal to your sense of smell and touch. Imagine walking out into a garden that draws you in with lovely fragrances. Also, flowers and plants come in a variety of textures. Pick some with interesting textures. Wind chimes provide a soft musical background in your garden.

A small pond creates an inspiring focal point in your landscape. Plants, fish and fountains add life that will soon make this feature your favorite spot in your yard. Watching fish swim among vivid plants offers peace and serenity.

In order to take pleasure in all of your natural surroundings, place a bench, swing or hammock among your lawn or garden. A small table and chairs would be the perfect setting for a romantic, candlelight dinner or even a casual, Sunday morning breakfast. Make the most of your backyard retreat.