Preparing for outdoor entertaining this Christmas

CHRISTMAS in the backyard is a much-loved Aussie tradition and with the big day almost here, now is the time to start your garden spruce.

Bev from Mondo Landscapes shares her tips on readying the outdoors for festive fun.

Start with gardening basics

Remove weeds, trim dead branches and overgrown foliage, apply a good slow-release fertiliser and mulch.

It’s not too late to add some colour and this is easily achieved with annuals. Vinca is a very tough annual, perfect for full sun and part shade. They also last well as cut flowers, great for tiny glasses on the table.

Assess the furniture

If your outdoor furniture is broken, mouldy or faded, it may be time to invest in new pieces and/or cushions (I’m loving tropical prints and large leafy patterns). Furniture needs to be in proportion to the area and not consume all the space – go for comfort and quality.

Decorate with flair

Consider incorporating a few key colours into your palette, complementing existing decor. Copper and rose gold continue to be on trend, with the look shifting into iridescent and pink hues.

Add baubles, an outdoor tree and hang the lights. I hang an old ladder under my patio adorned with handmade glass stars from India. I also love to have a tree outside and often use the agave flower. Add a beautiful wreath for the front: succulent wreaths are cool.

Also invest in a few games: quoits and skittles are fun and easy for all ages.

On the table

Mix new and vintage coloured glassware with crystal and modern shapes on the festive table and use fresh flowers, seashells and/or pinecones.