1. Plan Ahead: The key to a successful BBQ is proper planning. Decide on a date, create a guest list, and send out invitations in advance. This will give your guests plenty of time to RSVP and allow you to prepare accordingly.
2. Prepare Your Space: Take some time to spruce up your backyard before the big day. Clean the grill, arrange seating areas, set up games like cornhole or badminton, and create a welcoming ambiance with outdoor lighting and decorations.
3. Keep the Menu Simple: While it’s tempting to go all out with a variety of dishes, keeping the menu simple and manageable is key to reducing stress. Stick to BBQ classics like burgers, hot dogs, grilled chicken, and veggie skewers. Don’t forget to offer a variety of sides, salads, and desserts too.
4. Accommodate Dietary Restrictions: Make sure to ask your guests about any dietary restrictions or preferences ahead of time. Have options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with food allergies to ensure everyone can enjoy the feast.
5. Stock Up on Refreshments: No BBQ is complete without refreshing beverages. Stock up on a variety of drinks like lemonade, iced tea, beer, and non-alcoholic options for guests of all ages. Don’t forget to keep them chilled in coolers or tubs filled with ice.
6. Create a Relaxing Atmosphere: Set up a designated chill-out zone with comfortable seating, shade umbrellas, and maybe even some outdoor speakers playing upbeat tunes. Encourage your guests to kick back, mingle, and enjoy the laid-back vibe.
7. Delegate Tasks: Don’t try to do everything yourself. Enlist the help of family members or close friends to assist with grilling, serving food, refilling drinks, and cleaning up. Sharing the workload will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.
8. Offer Entertainment: Keep your guests entertained with fun activities like a DIY s’mores station, a photo booth with props, or a game of backyard trivia. Providing entertainment options ensures that there’s never a dull moment.
9. Mind the Weather: Keep an eye on the weather forecast leading up to the BBQ. Have a backup plan in case of rain or extreme heat, such as setting up a canopy or moving the party indoors. Being prepared for unexpected weather changes will help keep the event running smoothly.
10. Relax and Enjoy: Last but not least, remember to relax and enjoy the party yourself! Don’t get too caught up in perfectionism or trying to please everyone. The most important thing is spending quality time with your loved ones and creating lasting memories.

By following these 10 tips, you’ll be well on your way to hosting the perfect backyard BBQ that your guests will rave about for years to come.

So fire up that grill, crank up the music, and get ready for a fantastic outdoor celebration!

Whether you’re a grill master or a first-time BBQ-er, taking care of your gas grill is essential to making mouth-watering meals all season long. But with so many components, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Fear not, folks! This beginner’s guide will take you through the basics of keeping your grill clean, maintained, and covered for optimal grilling with gas.

Cleaning Before Use

Before you even think about firing up your grill, you need to give it a good cleaning. Not only will this make your food taste better, but it will also prevent harmful bacteria from growing on your grill grates. Here’s how to get started:

• Remove the Grates: Most gas grills have removable grates, which makes cleaning much easier. Take them off and set them aside.
• Scrub the Grates: Using a heavy-duty grill brush, scrub away any leftover food, grease, and debris. If your grates are particularly dirty, you can soak them in warm soapy water for a few hours first.
• Wipe Down the Burner Covers: While the grates are soaking, use a damp cloth to wipe down the burner covers and any other areas where grease may have accumulated.
• Check the Drip Pan: The drip pan collects all the grease and food particles that fall through the grates. Make sure to empty it out and wipe it clean before each use.
• Ignite the Grill: Before you start cooking, turn on your grill and let it heat up for a few minutes. This will burn off any remaining debris and sanitize the grates.

Cleaning After Use

Once you’ve finished cooking up a storm, it’s time to give your grill a post-BBQ cleaning. This will prevent any leftover food or grease from building up and ensure that your grill stays in top condition. Here are the steps to follow:

• Let It Cool Down: Before you start cleaning, make sure your grill has cooled down completely. Trying to clean a hot grill is not only dangerous but also ineffective.
• Brush the Grates: Using your trusty grill brush, scrub away any remaining food, grease, and debris.
• Empty the Drip Pan: Just like before, make sure to empty out the drip pan and wipe it clean.
• Wipe Down the Burner Covers: Using a damp cloth, wipe down the burner covers and any other areas where grease may have accumulated.
• Cover It Up: Once your grill is clean, make sure to cover it with a grill cover to protect it from the elements. This will prevent rust and damage and extend the life of your grill.

Early Season Inspection

Just like your car, your gas grill needs a regular inspection to make sure everything is in working order. Doing this at the beginning of the season will ensure that your grill is ready to go and prevent any unexpected hiccups. Here’s what to look for:

• Check the Igniter: Make sure the igniter is working properly. If it’s not, replace the battery or the entire unit if needed.
• Inspect the Gas Hose: Look for any cracks or leaks in the gas hose. If you find any, replace it immediately.
• Check the Burners: Make sure all the burners are functioning properly. If you see any rust or corrosion, clean it off with a wire brush.
• Clean the Venturi Tubes: These are the tubes that connect the burners to the control valves. Make sure they’re clean and free of any debris.
• Inspect the Grease Management System: This includes the drip pan, grease tray, and any other parts that collect grease. Make sure they’re clean and functioning properly.

Why You Should Keep Your Grill Covered

Keeping your grill covered might seem like an unnecessary step, but it’s actually one of the most important things you can do to ensure the longevity of your grill. Here are some reasons why:

• Protection from the Elements: Rain, snow, and sun can all take a toll on your grill if left exposed. A good grill cover will protect it from the elements and prevent rust and damage.
• Prevents Dirt and Debris Build-Up: Just like cleaning before and after use, covering your grill prevents dirt, debris, and even insects from making their way into your grill.
• Extends the Life of Your Grill: By preventing damage and rust, covering your grill can extend its life by several years. This means fewer trips to the hardware store to buy a new one!

Let’s start with a brief history of croquet. This game originated in France in the mid-19th century, and quickly spread throughout Europe and eventually to the United States. It was especially popular during the Victorian era and was often played at garden parties and social gatherings.

Setting up a field of play is fairly simple. You’ll need a flat grassy area, eight croquet wickets, four balls (usually two of one color, two of another), and two mallets. The wickets are placed in a specific pattern to make up the course, and the balls are placed in a specific order for each player to start.

The rules of croquet can be a bit tricky to grasp at first, but once you get the hang of them it’s a lot of fun. The basic idea is to use your mallet to hit your ball through the course, including passing through each of the wickets in order. You can also hit your opponent’s ball to prevent them from making a shot, or to bump them out of the way.

Variations of play can add even more excitement to the game. For example, in golf croquet players aim to hit their ball through each wicket in as few shots as possible, like traditional golf. In double bank croquet, each player has two balls and takes turns playing them both.

Keeping score is simple. Each time you hit your ball through a wicket, you earn one point. The first player to hit their ball through all the wickets and hit the finishing stake wins the game.

Now, for the important part – how to win! Here are some tips and tricks to help you dominate on the croquet field:

1. Aim for the center of the ball. This will help you get a more accurate shot and avoid skewing off to the side.
2. Look for the easiest path through the wickets. Sometimes it’s better to take a slightly longer shot to avoid a tricky angle.
3. Pay attention to your opponent’s ball. If they’re in a good position to make a shot, you may want to use your turn to bump them out of the way.
4. Plan ahead. Try to set yourself up for your next shot by positioning your ball in a good spot.
5. Practice, practice, practice. The more you play, the better you’ll get.

Croquet may seem like a genteel game, but don’t let that fool you – it can get pretty competitive! So grab your mallet, hit the court, and get ready to show off your skills.

If you’re looking for a game that combines strategy, skill, and a little bit of luck, look no further. Bocce is the perfect game for all ages and skill levels – it’s a great way to spend an afternoon with friends and family, or to compete in a more serious setting.

Let’s start with a brief history of bocce.

This beloved game has been around for centuries, originating in ancient Rome and spreading throughout Europe. It made its way to the United States with Italian immigrants and has since become a popular pastime in many parts of the country.

Setting up a field of play is easy.

You’ll need a flat surface – a lawn, a beach, or a bocce court – and eight bocce balls (four of one color, four of another), as well as a smaller ball called the pallino or jack. The pallino is tossed onto the field first, and then each team takes turns trying to get their bocce balls as close to the pallino as possible.

The rules of bocce are simple.

The team that gets their bocce ball closest to the pallino scores a point, and play continues until one team reaches a predetermined number of points (usually 11 or 13). If a bocce ball touches the pallino, it’s called a kiss and earns extra points. If two bocce balls are tied for the closest to the pallino, they cancel each other out, and neither team scores. And if a bocce ball goes out of bounds or doesn’t reach the pallino, it’s removed from play.

Variations of play can be added to make the game more interesting. For example, open bocce allows players to knock their opponents’ balls out of the way, or round robin allows each player to toss the pallino once and then take turns throwing their bocce balls. The possibilities are endless!

Keeping score is easy, too.

Each point is marked on a scorecard, and the first team to reach the predetermined number of points wins. If there’s a tie, players can continue playing until one team pulls ahead.

Now, for the important part – how to win!

Here are some tips and tricks to help you dominate on the bocce field:

1. Take your time. Don’t rush your throws – take a few deep breaths and focus on your aim.
2. Pay attention to the field. Are there any bumps or uneven spots that might affect your throw? Adjust your strategy accordingly.
3. Strategize with your team. Work together to block your opponents and set yourself up for success.
4. Be flexible. If your original plan isn’t working, don’t be afraid to switch things up.
5. Practice, practice, practice. The more you play, the better you’ll get.

Bocce is a game that’s meant to be enjoyed, so don’t take it too seriously. Have fun, make some memories, and who knows – you might just end up being the bocce champion of your neighborhood.

Setup

To set up a game of cornhole, you’ll need two boards and eight beanbags. The boards should be placed 27 feet apart (or 21 feet for a more beginner-friendly game) with their surfaces facing each other. Each board should have a hole that’s six inches in diameter and centered nine inches from the top of the board.

Players typically stand behind their board and toss their beanbags at their opponent’s board. And, speaking of tossing…

Play

The objective of the game is to toss your beanbag into the hole or onto the board and score as many points as possible. The player or team with the most points wins.

Each turn, players take turns pitching their beanbags at the opposing board. A player must toss all four of their beanbags before their opponent can take their turn.

If a beanbag lands in the hole, the player scores three points. If a beanbag lands on the board and doesn’t fall off, the player scores one point. However, if a beanbag hits the ground first and bounces onto the board, it doesn’t count.

If a player’s beanbag lands on the board and knocks an opponent’s beanbag off, the opponent’s beanbag is removed from the board and doesn’t count for any points.

Now, let’s talk about some alternative ways to play.

Variations

Cornhole is a game that’s open to interpretation, and players across the country have developed their own variations. Some players choose to play with smaller boards or different distances between boards. Others allow for the use of house rules, such as tossing two beanbags at once or allowing a do-over for a bad toss.

If you’re playing with a competitive group, it’s best to stick to the official rules. But, if you’re just looking to have some fun with friends, feel free to mix it up and try out some variations.

Scoring

Scoring in cornhole is pretty straightforward. Players keep track of their points on a scoreboard or by using a score slider. The first player or team to reach 21 points wins.

If both players or teams have the same number of points at the end of a round, the game goes into overtime. In overtime, each player gets one beanbag toss, and the first player to score wins.

So, there you have it! The official rules of cornhole. Whether you’re playing in your backyard or at a tailgate party, cornhole is always a fun and competitive game. So, grab your beanbags, set up your boards, and get ready to show off your tossing skills!

Do you want to have a lush, green lawn that’s the envy of your neighbors? Having a beautiful lawn takes a bit of work, but the results are worth it. In this post, we’ll cover the essential steps to getting a green lawn from spring to fall.

What Lawn Care You Need to Do in the Spring

Spring is the perfect time to start preparing your lawn for the upcoming season. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Raking

Remove any debris or dead leaves that have accumulated over the winter. This will allow sunlight to reach the grass and reduce the risk of disease.

2. Aerate

Aerating the soil will help improve water and nutrient absorption, which will encourage deeper root growth. You can rent an aerator or hire a professional.

3. Fertilize

Apply a slow-release fertilizer to help feed your lawn throughout the growing season. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

What Lawn Care You Need to Do in the Summer

Summer is a critical time for your lawn. Temperatures can reach scorching levels, and lack of water can turn your lawn brown. Here are the steps you should follow:

1. Watering

Your lawn needs about an inch of water per week. You can use a rain gauge to measure how much water your lawn receives each week. If it’s not enough, you’ll need to supplement it with a sprinkler system.

2. Mowing

Mow your lawn regularly, but avoid cutting it too short. Longer grass can help shade the soil and retain moisture. Also, make sure your mower blades are sharp to avoid tearing the grass.

3. Pest Control

Keep an eye out for pests like grubs or chinch bugs. If you notice any damage, apply an insecticide to control the problem.

What Lawn Care You Need to Do in the Fall

Fall is the perfect time to prepare your lawn for the winter months. Follow these steps to keep your lawn healthy:

1. Fertilize

Apply fertilizer to your lawn to help it survive the winter months. Choose a fertilizer with higher potassium content, as this will help strengthen the roots and improve cold tolerance.

2. Raking

Remove any debris or dead leaves that have accumulated over the summer. This will help prevent disease and keep your lawn healthy.

3. Overseeding

If your lawn has bare patches, consider overseeding. This process involves spreading grass seed over your existing lawn, which will help fill in any gaps and improve growth.

How Often to Water Your Lawn

Watering your lawn is essential to keeping it healthy and green. However, it’s essential to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other problems. Here are some tips for watering your lawn:

1. Water your lawn early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when temperatures are cooler.

2. Use a rain gauge to measure how much water your lawn is receiving.

3. Make sure your lawn receives about an inch of water per week.

How to Test Your Lawn to Know What Fertilizer to Use

Applying the correct fertilizer is essential to keeping your lawn healthy and green. However, choosing the right fertilizer can be tricky. Here are some steps to help you test your lawn’s soil and choose the right fertilizer:

1. Test your soil

Use a soil test kit to check your lawn’s pH levels and nutrient content. This will help you determine what type of fertilizer to use.

2. Choose the right fertilizer

Based on your soil test results, choose a fertilizer that contains the necessary nutrients to keep your lawn healthy.

3. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions

Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying fertilizer. Applying too much can damage your lawn while applying too little won’t provide the necessary nutrients.

In conclusion, having a lush, green lawn takes a bit of effort, but the results are worth it. By following these steps, you’ll have a lawn that’s the envy of your neighbors. Remember to water your lawn regularly, mow it correctly, and use the correct fertilizer. With a little patience and care, you’ll have a beautiful lawn that you can enjoy for years to come.

But maybe you’re struggling with ideas to suit your home.

Don’t worry. We have you covered.

Here are three great ways to breathe new life into your backyard.

Go Green

Many people opt for a lawn in their backyards.

The green creates an aesthetic look and a fantastic landscape that will leave your guests in awe.

You can create structures by purchasing planter boxes, trellis sets, table stands, and arbors.

These planter boxes can include plants, while the trellis can allow the hanging of several plants. Moreover, trellis arbors can create a green entrance to your backyard, perfecting the view.

Outdoor Seating Setup

Some reserve their backyards to sit with their family and friends and enjoy the moment while sipping a cup of tea.

Form a seating area set up by getting several porch swings, patio garden benches, and armchairs.

These furniture items will create a cozy and fun arrangement that will allow you to relax during your family time. You can also include several cushions for these items to increase comfort.

Moreover, you can design it easily – it’s a one-time investment that adds to your entertainment for a pretty long time.

Outdoor Furniture

Imagine having a BBQ in your backyard while gazing at the view and enjoying the cool breeze.

Sounds exciting, right?

You can make that happen by purchasing a wooden outdoor furniture set.

Design your grilling setup and have a fantastic quality time with your family by enjoying your meals, conversations, and sharing laughter.

Takeaway

Do you want to transform your backyard and make it the most fun and enjoyable place ever?

Summer Cedar is your go-to choice for garden structures and furniture that will make you fall in love with your backyard.

So, what are you waiting for?

Wooden Furniture

Wood is one of the most common and widely loved materials for outdoor furniture; it lasts a long time, is comfortable, and has a natural beauty that complements most settings. Wooden outdoor furniture comes in many varieties, each with different attributes, colors, and quality; here are some of the most common types that you can come across:

• Red Cedar: Red cedar is an excellent choice for outdoor furniture due to its natural oils that repel rot, insects, and mold. It is naturally weather-resistant, resisting most mild weather. Its color can change over the years, so re-sealing every so often is necessary.
• Teak: The king of hardwoods, teak’s oil content is even higher than cedars, meaning it repels insects, rot, and mold even better, and is also one of the most weather-resistant woods you can buy; lasting up to 50 years with little maintenance.
• Eucalyptus: A more affordable option than teak and red cedar, eucalyptus repels insects, rot, and mildew like similar hardwoods but is not as moisture resistant; this wood is an excellent alternative for less moist environments or if adequately sealed.

Metal Furniture

Metal furniture is also highly weather-resistant, depending on what type you buy. Wrought iron, for example, is extremely heavy and withstands winds well but is easily damaged by moisture. Aluminum is another good option, as it does not rust or decay and has very low maintenance, but it is the lightest metal furniture, so winds can easily blow it away. Your best bet is stainless steel; this hard alloy is immune to almost all weather, is heavy enough that winds are little to no risk, and only needs occasional cleaning to maintain.

Cement Furniture

It may come as a surprise, but cement patio furniture is becoming a popular choice. While it is highly durable, wind-resistant, immune to sun damage, and more resistant to wear and tear than wood, it is susceptible to moisture. Water, particularly frost, can get inside small cracks of the cement, freeze, and damage the furniture, so this material is best for dry climates.

Synthetic Furniture and Plastic

Plastic furniture, alongside synthetic furniture, both share the same weather-resistant qualities; they both are immune to damage from almost all forms of weather but can fade with continued exposure to the sun and are the most susceptible to winds on this list.

Choosing the right patio furniture for its weather resistance ultimately comes down to your location. Warmer, dryer climates often benefit from hardwood, cement, or aluminum, while colder Rainer climates suit stainless steel, synthetics, and certain woods. If you are interested in purchasing hand-crafted, hardwood furniture, you can view our entire catalog here.