Summer in the PNW is a short but cherished season filled with backyard BBQs, outdoor gatherings, and plenty of time to enjoy the fresh air. If you’re planning to host friends and family this summer, now’s the perfect moment to get your yard in shape for entertaining. With a few simple summer backyard landscaping tips, you can create a welcoming and low-maintenance space. Let us help you make sure your backyard looks great and keeps the party going.
At Dow Excavating, we’ve helped many local homeowners get their yards summer-ready with materials and tips tailored for the Pacific Northwest climate. Here are our top recommendations for summer backyard landscaping tips that will help you host memorable BBQs and outdoor parties.
1. Fire Pit Prep: Summer Backyard Landscaping Tips for a Safe & Stylish Gathering Spot
A backyard fire pit is the ultimate gathering spot. To keep it safe and tidy, lay down a sturdy gravel pad using crushed gravel like our 7/8″ Minus. This creates a level base that improves drainage and stability, and it’s super affordable! You can even define the space with a border of decorative rock, blocks, or basalt boulders to add a natural, polished look.
2. Refresh Garden Beds with Bark: A Quick Summer Backyard Landscaping Tip
Adding a fresh layer of bark to your garden beds brightens your yard while helping retain moisture and keeping weeds at bay, which is ideal for our hot Eastern Washington summers. Consider our Dark Bark Fines for a bonus of added nitrogen nutrients! Focus on flower beds and perimeter plantings that don’t see direct foot traffic or cooking equipment. Make sure to keep mulch away from BBQ and fire pit zones to prevent any fire hazards.
3. Create a Gravel Base for Seating and BBQ Zones
Tired of dragging chairs through soggy grass or uneven soil? A compacted gravel base made from 5/8” minus provides a low-maintenance, durable foundation for your patio furniture, grills, or outdoor lounge areas. It’s easy and affordable to install yourself and keeps things clean and comfortable for your guests.
4. Add Color & Texture with Decorative Rock
Decorative rock is a fantastic way to add interest and contrast to your landscaping. Consider colorful products like Yellow Valley or Champagne to go beautifully against green lawns and vibrant plants. Use decorative rock to define borders, create visual “breaks” in your garden, or highlight special features like fire pits or seating nooks. And if you just want a small amount, we sell product by the 5-gallon bucket for your convenience. You just need to be sure and bring your own!
5. Top Off Garden Beds and Sandboxes
Before the party starts, top off your garden beds with our nutrient-rich Dow’s Garden Blend soil to keep plants thriving. For families with kids, a sandbox filled with clean, soft beach sand offers hours of entertainment while you socialize. Level out uneven spots with Screened Sand or our Premium Turf Builder for a smooth lawn that’s easy to walk and play on.
Ready to Try These Summer Backyard Landscaping Tips?
No matter the size of your project, Dow Rocks is here to help you find the right materials at the right price. From bulk deliveries to small 5-gallon buckets, we make it easy to get what you need for a summer-ready yard.
Visit Us: 707 W 1st St. Cheney, WA
Call: 509-235-4511
Email: office@dowrocks.com
