In New Jersey, we wait all winter for summer. But once summer is in full swing, it can get a little too hot and humid. We’ve all had that almost guilty mid-summer feeling of thinking we might actually be ready for fall.
When summer heat waves hit, you don’t need to let the high temps and humidity keep you indoors. All it takes is a little shade for you to comfortably enjoy your backyard on even the hottest summer days. From quick fixes to long-term solutions, here are all the ways you can create shade throughout your landscape.
What You Can Do Right Now
Did you know that direct sunlight can add up to 15 degrees to the Heat Index? So, on a muggy 85-degree day with 75% humidity, the “feels like” temperature might be 95 degrees in the shade, but as high as 110 degrees in the sun. That’s not to say that 95 is necessarily “cool,” but for most people, it’s bearable—whereas 110 is not only uncomfortable but dangerous for anyone.
To shield yourself from the sun, consider these add-ons that can be installed relatively quickly to provide some relief immediately:
Awnings
Retractable awnings are wonderfully functional, allowing you to adjust the coverage as the sun moves throughout the day. They’re available in various sizes, colors, and styles, so you can choose one that complements your outdoor décor. Awnings are ideal for providing consistent shade over larger areas like patios, decks, and garden seating spaces.
Pergolas
A pergola is an outdoor structure consisting of vertical posts or pillars that support cross beams and an open lattice. Pergolas not only provide shade but also add a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. They can be left open or covered with climbing plants like wisteria or grapevines, which offer additional shade and a beautiful, natural look. For more immediate shade, consider adding a fabric canopy. Pergolas are perfect for creating shaded dining areas and cozy outdoor lounges.
Curtains and Shade Sails
Outdoor curtains and shade sails are excellent for providing flexible, adjustable shade. Curtains can be added to pergolas or gazebos to block out the sun and create a more intimate space. Just make sure you don’t place them near a fire pit or grill.
Shade sails are made from durable fabric and can be stretched across various outdoor areas to create large swaths of diffused sunlight. These sails are easy to install and can be removed or adjusted as needed.
What You Can Do for Next Summer
Once you get through this summer, you can use fall and winter to start designing for next summer. These add-ons are a little more involved but can certainly be ready by next Memorial Day weekend if you plan ahead and begin construction sometime between December and February, when professional landscapers have more availability and aren’t swamped with spring prep.
Multi-Level Patios
Creating a multi-level patio adds depth and dimension to your backyard while offering multiple shaded areas. An upper patio area can be used for sunbathing, while a lower patio can serve as a shaded retreat. A professional landscape designer like High Tech Landscapes can incorporate steps, retaining walls, and walkways to enhance both functionality and visual appeal.
Outdoor Kitchens with Pergolas
If you love cooking and entertaining outdoors, adding a pergola over an outdoor kitchen can provide much-needed shade while you cook. This setup not only keeps the cooking area cool but also creates a comfortable dining space. Once again, ensure that any fabric additions, like curtains, are kept away from open flames.
Natural Shade with Evergreens
Planting evergreens can provide natural shade and privacy. While they take a few years to reach full height, their year-round foliage makes them a worthwhile investment. Species like Green Giant Arborvitae or American Holly are well-suited to New Jersey’s climate and can start providing noticeable growth and shade within the first year. These evergreens help create a cooler, more private outdoor space, making them an excellent choice for long-term landscape design.
What You Can Do for Future Summers
Landscaping is all about planning ahead, especially when you get into landscape design. It’s safe to say you’re going to want shade not just this summer, but every summer. Long-term shade solutions include:
Slow-Growing Trees
Planting large trees such as cherry trees, pear trees, or dogwoods can provide significant shade in the future. They also add seasonal interest with their blossoms and fruits. For new homeowners, planting trees early sets the stage for a beautifully shaded yard over time.
Strategic Design
When planning long-term shade solutions, consider the sun’s path throughout the year. Place trees and structures in locations that will provide maximum shade during the hottest parts of the day. For example, placing a pergola on the western side of your patio can block the harsh afternoon sun, creating a cooler environment for evening relaxation.
Incorporating Plants
Adding plants around and within your shaded areas enhances the cooling effect and integrates the structures into your garden seamlessly. Climbing plants like clematis or wisteria can adorn pergolas, providing additional shade and a burst of color. Meanwhile, potted plants and ground cover can add lushness to the shaded areas, making them even more inviting.
Take Back Summer
Summer is our reward for enduring winter. Don’t let summer scorchers take away the outdoor living you’ve earned. Whether you’re looking for immediate or long-term solutions to create shade, High Tech Landscapes can help you design, build, and maintain your dream outdoor space with the right balance of sun, shade, structure, and nature. Explore our residential landscaping services in NJ and contact us today.
