If you’ve got a beautiful garden space, but not many shady spots, here three hacks that can help you stay healthy and keep cool and escape the summer heat.When the weather’s lovely outside you’ll find any excuse to get out amongst it; whether it’s BBQs, pool trips or to the local park or beach. However, during the upcoming summer heat, it’s essential to stay safe in the sun. And this goes for relaxing in our garden space just as much as at the beach.
1. Get planting
Planting a tree is an easy DIY project. Trees are perfect for shading you from the sun and eco-friendly as a shade option, so why not get planting! You can get a landscape gardener in to take a look at your space and assess your options.
They can help you decide will kind of trees you should plant, and where, to get the shade that you desire. Of course, the catch is that you’ll be waiting a few years at least for the tree to grow and give you the shade that you’re after. If you’re looking for something that you don’t have to wait around for, let’s take a look at our next option.
2. Retractable awnings
Investing in retractable awnings is a great idea for they have ample benefits. If you’re not sure of the term, these are essentially roof-like structures often made of canvas or plastic, that extends from a wall. These can be retracted and folded as you please and can provide shelter from the weather.
Retractable awnings can be the perfect solution for shade in your garden or to shield your patio from the sun’s rays. When it’s sunny, you can sit underneath and still enjoy the outdoor space yet with a little added protection from the summer heat.
In the same way, if you live in a climate with unpredictable weather and it suddenly begins to rain on your bbq party, the day needn’t be ruined. Instead, you can simply retreat to under the awning until it passes! What’s more, you can end up saving a bit of money by giving the room that your awning extends from more shade in the summer. You won’t need to use aircon or fans as much to keep this room cool. RELATED CONTENT: How to Prep Your Home for the Summer Heat
3. Add patio umbrellas (parasols)
Patio umbrellas (aka parasols) are another fab way to get some shade in your outdoor living space. With umbrellas, you can relax and enjoy a meal or drinks at your garden table without breaking too much of a sweat.
Why not choose a bold color to match the flowers in your garden and turn this into a chance to revamp your garden for the summer! The great thing about patio umbrellas is that they are portable, so no there’s no need to stay in just one space.
Why Keeping Cool in the Garden Matters
It’s easy to underestimate just how fast heat can build up outdoors—especially when you’re working in full sun. While the warm weather draws us outside for cookouts, gardening, and playtime, prolonged heat exposure can quickly lead to dehydration or heat exhaustion.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises staying hydrated, wearing breathable fabrics, and scheduling strenuous yard work during early mornings or late afternoons. Keep an eye out for symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or nausea—these can be early signs that your body needs a break.
By planning a little shade and rest into your outdoor routine, you can safely enjoy every minute of summer in your garden.
Quick DIY Shade Additions
If your garden doesn’t have many built-in shady spots, you can still create comfort zones with small, budget-friendly projects.
- Potted greenery for instant shade: Move large potted trees or tall shrubs to the sunniest corners of your patio to act as living screens.
- Outdoor curtains: Hang lightweight, UV-resistant curtains from a pergola, porch, or balcony for adjustable shade that looks stylish.
- Shade sails: These triangular fabric panels mount easily between walls, fences, or posts to cover seating or play areas.
- Reflective décor: Light-colored rugs and furniture help bounce sunlight away, keeping the area cooler underfoot.
Each of these projects can be completed in an afternoon and costs far less than structural renovations, making them perfect for renters or first-time homeowners.
Beating the Summer Heat FAQs
Combine shade sails, large umbrellas, or retractable awnings with outdoor fans or misters. These simple additions can drop the ambient temperature by several degrees and make outdoor dining far more pleasant.
Choose UV-blocking polyester, acrylic, or canvas. These materials resist fading, repel moisture, and provide consistent protection from harsh sunlight.
Add plants! Greenery releases moisture through transpiration, creating a natural evaporative cooling effect. Even a few container gardens filled with ferns or tropicals can make a noticeable difference.
Absolutely. Providing exterior shade—like an awning or tall tree—can reduce indoor cooling costs by blocking solar gain before it reaches your windows.
The Takeaway: Make Smart Design Choices to Beat the Summer Heat
We all look forward to basking in our gardens in the summer and if you’re a great sun worshipper! However, not all of us can take the heat, and it’s much healthier for our bodies to seek a little shade now and then. Have an idea about which option would suit you best for your garden space, and you’ll soon be staying cool and enjoying the summer!
