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    24 Things That'll Help Elevate Your Backyard

    If you want your backyard to look like a HGTV "after shot," you've come to the right place.

    1. A sprinkle of fast-acting lawn repair formula, which will turn your patchy yard into a lush paradise. This grass seed repair minimizes the effects of those unsightly pet urine spots, digging disasters, and pesky high traffic areas. Watch as your lawn transforms into a picturesque Windows home screen, complete with grass swaying in the wind.

    reviewer's patchy grass before using product
    reviewer's lush green grass after using product

    Promising review: "This stuff is a miracle! I know it says patch repair but we had an entire bare backyard that needed tending to. I mixed two bags of this stuff with a 2-lb bag of grass seed and of course raked the yard and tilled to over turn the dirt, spread this stuff and watered 2–3 times a day lightly. I even forgot about it one day and still to my surprise I had nice grass growing all throughout the backyard. Our backyard is very shady so I didn’t expect these great of results we also have a dog that runs around the yard constantly barking at airplanes and people who walk by. Still this stuff is going strong, very impressed." —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $13.71(available in five sizes).

    2. A pack of solar-charging fence lights to bring a bright new look to your whole backyard. Good lighting is the *key* to creating a magical atmosphere, and these lights provide a warm, inviting glow that will make your outdoor space come alive. Just attach them to any flat surface and enjoy their gentle illumination from dusk until dawn. Say goodbye to dull evenings and hello to a beautifully lit outdoor space that will leave you and your guests in awe.

    Promising review: "I've seen numerous yards that have been lit up nicely, usually in more expensive homes, and now finally because of these wonderful fence lights, that's what I used them for, I can join the club. The boss, my wife, was extremely happy with the look. Will be ordering more." —Avalos 

    Get an eight pack from Amazon for $59.99.

    3. A side table cooler designed to keep your drinks ice cold and at your fingertips. For a additional treat, lift the lid up and the cooler becomes a sleek cocktail table.

    the cooler with ice and drinks in the bottom portion and snacks on the lifted table top
    the cooler in between two lounge chairs

    Promising review: "This product is the bomb, so much so we purchased a second one... Had outdoor game day with our children and this kept everyone outdoors. Easy access to beverages for all ages. Would definitely recommend to any outdoor party goers." —Leslie A. McClendon

    Get it from Amazon for $80.96 (available in brown and grey).

    4. A tropical outdoor area rug that is like a one-way ticket to Tulum, bringing all the laid-back vibes and sunny goodness right to your doorstep. And don't worry about wear and tear — this baby is built to withstand even the rowdiest of outdoor parties. With fade-resistant materials and mold-proof construction, you can keep the good times rolling all summer long.

    a patio setup with the abstract palm leaf inspired rug, a couch, table decor and outdoor umbrella
    Ruggable

    Promising review: "I love this rug on my back patio so much! It really elevates the space. The cream color did look a little yellow initially, but that faded after a few weeks and it looks like the picture now!! Very happy with this rug." —Meg

    Get it from Ruggable for $229+ (available in five sizes and two colors). 

    5. A cozy two-person hammock perfect for lounging in your newfound backyard paradise. The only thing missing? A personal assistant fanning you with a giant palm leaf. Get ready to live your best life!

    Reviewers also love the "easy to assemble" design of this hammock!

    Promising review: "Very sturdy and can hold exactly the weight it states; when you sit on it; it's reminiscent of a a swing but is not recommended on the instruction to overswing on it; but I sit on it and gently swing on it. Easy to assemble; the best way to turn your backyard into a mini getaway staycation, and yes I bought this with my own money." —Andrea_

    Get it from Amazon for $125.99 (available in five colors).

    6. A six pack of mosquito dunks formulated to decrease the presence of mosquitos over time allowing you to reclaim your outdoor sanctuary. These dunks are infused with BTI, a bacteria that is toxic to mosquitoes and their larvae, but safe for wildlife. Just drop the dunks into any standing water, and within hours, it will eliminate both mosquitoes and larvae for up to 30 days.

    six pack of mosquito dunks
    mosquito dunk in koi pond
    Amazon

    You can learn more about BTI, the bacteria in mosquito dunks, at the CDC.

    Promising review: "Mosquitoes where I live are fierce! For the first time in years I have been able to enjoy hanging out in my beautiful backyard, which is full of trees and flowers. Why? Because I put out six containers of water with one Mosquito Dunk disk each. There are no more mosquitoes! This product is a miracle. The dunks are extremely simple to use and cost hardly anything. They last a month. Completely efficient. I will use this for the rest of my life. Thank you to whoever figured this out!" —Alberta

    Get a six pack from Amazon for $9.92.

    7. An eight pack of solar-powered ground lights to turn your yard into a star-studded oasis that will leave you and your guests feeling like they're at an A-lister's soiree. Trust us, you'll be checking your bushes for hidden cameras once these lights are installed!

    reviewer's landscape with ground lights installed throughout illuminating plants and various features
    reviewer's pathway lined with ground lights

    These waterproof solar-powered lights automatically turn on in darkness and turn off in daytime or in bright areas, adding the perfect amount of light to your courtyard, garden, sidewalk, patio, corridor or pathway.

    Promising review: "Love how bright these lights are and that they shine up on plants making the backyard look like a resort at night." —Anna

    Get it form Amazon for $27.99+ (available in two pack sizes and two colors).

    8. A propane-powered firepit table that not only sets the mood but also doubles as a spot to rest your glass on wine. Imagine how much more enjoyable your leisure time will be with one of these beauties — perfect for gathering around with your loved ones and making lasting memories. 

    Promising review: "This is one of the best pieces in our outdoor sanctuary. It’s beautiful and gives off just enough warmth on a cool night. Wonderful ambience." —Michelle Kimball

    Get it from Amazon for $199.98+ (available in three sizes).

    9. Or a sleek tabletop firepit to add a touch of elegance to your outdoor patio table or compact space. Enjoy the soft glow while sitting under the starry night sky roasting marshmallows. 

    mini fire pit on reviewer's outdoor table
    mini fire pit on reviewer's balcony table

    This firepit can be fueled by bioethanol, isopropyl alcohol, or gel fuel cans.

    Promising review: "Attractive design and great ambiance. This small portable firepit is easy to use and a perfect addition to a patio. Given the size, it’s not gonna throw a ton of heat but is perfect on warm nights. The kids love roasting marshmallows on it on a whim." —Mama Kim

    Promising review: "I sought tabletop ambiance for my city balcony and got it. The item looks exactly like the ad pics and is as simple as I hoped. Nothing to break, no instructions really needed. Unbox and enjoy. Easy to clean if needed too because the materials are few and of quality grade. I would recommend this over many related solutions." —velvet

    Get it from Amazon for $79.99.

    10. A standing weeder made to pull those eyesores out of your lawn. With its long bamboo handle and four-claw design, you can eliminate weeds without breaking a sweat (or a knee). Time to upgrade your yard game and enjoy a beautifully manicured lawn.

    Grampa's Gardenware Co. is an Oregon-based, family-owned small business

    Promising review: "The appearance of my lawn has dramatically improved with the removal of dandelions and other less common weeds." —Amazon Customer

    Promising review: "A friend had this tool and loaned it to me for a weekend. It is very easy to use and as soon as I had to return it back to them, I bought another weeder right away. Easy to use and I am thankful I don’t have to bend over for weeds as much. It only takes a light touch to pull up many weeds, but you can push it deep for a weed with deep roots. It feels like a solid tool which is refreshing." —Katie

    Get it from Amazon for $39.99.

    11. A five-piece patio set to turn your outdoor space the ultimate relaxation destination that's perfect for your patio, deck, or pool area. Picture yourself lounging on your patio, drink in hand, soaking up the sun.

    A reviewer's set in brown including a sectional sofa with chaise and table, and area rug
    the set from another angle

    Promising review: "It was incredibly simple and easy to assemble. We have used it every night since we got it! It has completely transformed our back patio! We absolutely love this couch set! Amazing price too for such great quality! We couldn't be more pleased with our new set and looking forward to the summer!" —Evie Thrift

    Get it from Amazon for $299.99 (available in three colors).

    12. A set of outdoor Bluetooth speakers capable of up to seven hours of non-stop music and illuminating your surroundings with flickering LED torchlight. These speakers provide a stunning visual addition to your outdoor setting along with exceptional sound quality and wireless connectivity — the perfect accessory for any outdoor gathering.

    Promising review: "These speakers are perfect for outdoor get togethers or a party where you need some music and a little tropical ambience. I placed them outside around my pool and the flickering "flames" of the speakers look amazing at night while playing music. Surprisingly the flames look very realistic and I got several compliments on them. The speakers themselves sound really good and don't play music individually, instead they actually sync up together giving you wireless stereo sound. Once setup, you have the option of turning the flames on or off which i found useful for maximizing the battery when I was wanting longer music sessions. Using them was very simple, I just had to connect to them through bluetooth using my phone and they immediately wake up and start playing music. All in all a fun way to spice up your patio or back yard with some music and mood." —****Lee****

    Get a two pack from Amazon for $59.99 (available as a single for $39.99)

    13. A modern retractable pergola if you're looking to dine al fresco in style and comfort. Thanks to the adjustable canopy, you'll be ready to soak up the sun (or stay in the shade) with your new favorite outdoor hangout spot.

    Promising review: "My porch is now a beautiful, classy, sophisticated and Zen all the way space. It came in a box that was packaged without any lost or broken parts👍🏽. Easy to build just take your breaks and invite a friend to help. Cheers!" —JD Nyborg

    Get it from Amazon for $409.99+ (available in four curtain colors and nine sizes).

    14. Or a sail canopy perfect for adding an extra layer of style and design to your space. With this you can create a shaded area to escape the hot sun or a sheltered spot to relax during light rain. Plus, it's a great way to add a touch of privacy to your outdoor space without sacrificing the open-air feeling.

    Promising review: "I’m a landscaper contractor. I was looking a seal shed with good quality and durable for my customers. I’m very happy to see a good product to reasonable price. Hooks and material they are 100% straight. I highly recommend this product for your future back yard." — Sheds by Tierra

    Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in nine colors).

    15. A stylish and chic concrete planter to effortlessly take your outdoor landscaping game to new heights. It's the perfect way to elevate your greenery and add a touch of sophistication to your space. Whether you're looking to spruce up your front yard or create a cozy haven on your balcony, this planter is sure to impress.

    Promising review: "I am in love with my planters, I bought quite a few, same and in different sizes, so pretty. The design is modern and beautiful, very sturdy material and the charcoal color planters goes amazing with the green garden." —Zunilda Llano

    Get it from Amazon for $48.21+ (available in eight colors and three sizes).

    16. A lighted patio umbrella for adding some pizzazz to your outdoor space. Not only will it provide shade during hot scorching days, but it'll also light up your nights with some extra oomph. Jazz up your patio and make it the envy of all your neighbors.

    umbrella open above reviewer's patio table and chairs
    umbrella open and lit about reviewer's hammock at night

    Promising review: "Gave my deck a luxurious look. Liked this umbrella so much I bought four more. The color matched perfectly with the furniture on our deck. The LED lights are bright enough at night, it’s all the light we need." —Liz Hallahan

    Get it from Amazon for $71.99 (available in 12 colors).

    17. A set of outdoor curtains that will transport you straight to the glitz and glam of a Las Vegas rooftop lounge. These aren't just for privacy; they'll make your outdoor space feel more stylish and luxurious! You just might feel like a VIP sipping on a fancy cocktail.

    A reviewer's patio with the white curtains pulled back
    the patio and curtain from another angle

    Promising review: "These curtains were exactly what I was looking for, they add an entire different level of sophistication to our bottom deck and I could not be more in love with them." — Sharon M

    Get it from Amazon for $11.99+ (available in 15 colors and 14 sizes).

    18. An outdoor candle formulated with lemon eucalyptus, tea tree, lavender and peppermint oils to keep those pesky bugs away and make your time lounging outside more enjoyable. This candle is a real buzzkill (pun intended) to enjoying the beautiful weather and the peaceful sound of nature.

    The 8oz and 16oz candle jars
    Aire Candle Co/ Etsy

    You can learn more about the benefits of lemon eucalytpus as a mosquito repellent from the Cleveland Clinic.

    Aire Candle Co is a small premium beeswax candle business located in Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

    Promising review: "This candle is stellar! Seriously, we have tried a lot of things to keep the mosquitoes and bugs away to no avail but this works! I light it at peak times on our patio and we have not seen any mosquitoes since! Ordering more because I love it!!" — Michelle Robinson 

    Get it from Aire Candle Co on Etsy for $25 (available in 8oz and 16oz).

    19. A set of string lights to give the effect of a twinkly night sky. No need to worry about wiring or electricity, these lights run on solar power. 

    string lights strung above reviewer's backyard space
    the string lights around reviewer's pool

    Promising review: "These lights are absolutely perfect for a fun outdoor space. They provide the right amount of ambiance for any outdoor activity. Whether you want to have a girls night on the back patio or just to simply read and unwind after a long day, these lights provide a soft glow that isn't harsh on your eyes or too dim. I would highly recommend." —Becca

    Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in three colors and five sizes).

    20. A roll of faux ivy for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your surroundings. Simply attach it to unsightly wire fencing, railings, or a trellis to effectively obscure any unwanted views. 

    faux ivy lining the back wall of reviewer's patio space with fire pit and tv
    faux ivy enclosing reviewer's patio area creating a sense of privacy

    Promising review: "My husband and I had a really ugly fence surrounding our patio, but because it’s a rental we couldn’t change it, so this was the PERFECT cover-up! It gives such a nice feeling to the small area, and although they are clearly fake they still look really good even up close. Seem to hold up really well too! Easy to hang up with just a few zip ties." —N.Paugh

    Get it from Amazon for $75.99.

    21. An adjustable mister that's sure to cool you and your surroundings off by up to 20 degrees. Whether you're catching some rays on a lounge chair or just chilling on your patio, this mister can stand on its own or wrap around something with ease.

    mister wrapped around a metal fencing cooling off reviewer's puppy
    mister wrapped around patio frame in reviewer's yard

    Promising review: "This has been the most loved purchase in my household so far this summer. Temperatures are reaching 100 in Georgia now and this makes it much more bearable to spend time outside. I can sit outside in full sun exposure and not feel too hot due to this mister. It truly is an essential purchase to save yourself if you have kids or pets who need to spend time outside!"Maddie Pannell

    Get it from Amazon for $60.78.

    22. A water fountain to effortlessly turn your outdoor space into a zen garden to relax and unwind. The gentle flow of water is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also provides a natural white noise to help drown out any unwanted sounds.

    Promising review: "This fountain is a beautiful addition to our backyard. It is well built and works exactly as advertised. The green accents against the dark brown bowls gives the fountain an old world feel!! I like that is has a quiet calming water that is not too loud. The fountain came quickly and was packaged well." —Julie Beeter

    Get it from Amazon for $219.99.

    23. An inflatable projector screen that'll make your outdoor space into a cinematic experience. Set up with a TV stick– or smartphone-compatible projector and enjoy movie nights under the starts with family and friends, creating unforgettable memories in the comfort of your own backyard.

    projector screen above reviewer's pool
    reviewer's backyard movie night set up with projector and inflated seats

    Promising review: "Turned my backyard into a cinema for the summer. Set up is easily, difficult to keep up when its windy, but once you figure that out it's a great experience." —A.Rod

    Get it from Amazon for $132.99+ (available in eight sizes).

    24. A hummingbird feeder to magically transform your outdoor space into a scene straight out of a Disney movie. With these feeders you can enjoy the beauty of nature up close and personal.

    hummingbird drinking from feeder
    Mosaic Birds Co/ Etsy

    Mosaic Birds Co. is a small bird bath and feeder business located in Manor, Texas.

    Promising review: "I love the bird feeder. I wanted a simpler yet modern looking one than what I always see in the stores, and this was perfect!" —Kristian

    Get it from Mosaic Birds Co. on Etsy for $36.95.

    The reviews used in this post have been edited for length and clarity.