July in Gilbert means one thing: scorching heat that can make even the most dedicated backyard enthusiast want to stay indoors. But don’t let the triple-digit temperatures keep you from enjoying your outdoor space! With a few smart shade solutions, you can create a cool, comfortable oasis right in your own backyard. 🌴
Plant Fast-Growing Shade Trees
One of the best long-term investments for boosting backyard shade is planting trees. While they may take a few years to reach full size, the payoff is well worth the wait. For quick results, choose fast-growing varieties like Desert Willow, Palo Verde, or Mesquite. These hardy trees are well-adapted to Gilbert’s climate and can provide ample shade in just a few seasons.
When planting shade trees, be strategic about placement. Consider the angle of the sun at different times of day and position trees where they’ll block the most intense rays. You can also create a cool microclimate by clustering several trees together near your patio or outdoor living area.
Install a Pergola or Shade Sail
For more immediate shade, consider installing a pergola or shade sail over your patio or seating area. These structures provide instant relief from the sun while still allowing for airflow and visibility. Plus, they can add an attractive architectural element to your backyard design.
Pergolas come in a variety of materials, from natural wood to low-maintenance vinyl or fiberglass. You can also customize the size and shape to fit your space. For a budget-friendly option, shade sails are easy to install and can be positioned at different angles to block the sun as it moves throughout the day.
Add Shade with a Patio Umbrella
If you’re looking for a quick and portable shade solution, patio umbrellas are a great choice. They come in a range of sizes, colors, and styles to suit any backyard aesthetic. Look for umbrellas with tilting mechanisms so you can adjust the angle of the shade as needed.
For maximum cooling power, choose an umbrella with a light-colored or reflective canopy. This will help deflect the sun’s rays and keep the area beneath the umbrella cooler. You can also add misters around the perimeter for an extra blast of refreshing coolness on hot days.
Create Cool, Shady Nooks
Take advantage of existing structures or features in your yard to create cozy, shaded seating areas. A corner of your fence or block wall can become a cool reading nook with the addition of a bench and some climbing vines. Or tuck a small bistro set beneath a mature tree for an instant shady cafe spot.
Get creative with materials that provide both shade and style. A breezy hammock strung between two posts offers a perfect place to lounge on lazy afternoons. Or drape colorful tapestries from the branches of a tree to fashion a bohemian-inspired hideaway. With a little imagination, you can carve out intimate, shaded spaces throughout your yard.
Experiment with Heat-Tolerant Plants
While shade is key for keeping cool, surrounding yourself with lush, heat-loving plants can also help create a refreshing backyard oasis. Varieties like bougainvillea, lantana, and yellow bells thrive in Gilbert’s intense summer heat and add vibrant color to the landscape.
Clustering potted plants around your outdoor living areas not only looks inviting but can actually help lower the ambient temperature. Through a process called transpiration, plants release moisture into the air, providing a natural cooling effect. Plus, the extra foliage helps absorb and deflect the sun’s rays for even more shade power.
With these five easy strategies, you can transform your Gilbert backyard into a shady summer sanctuary. So go ahead and beat the heat – your cool, comfortable outdoor oasis awaits! ☀️😎
