Photograph courtesy of Sågverket Möten Rum & Kök

Looking to improve your relationship with your outdoor space? Take after the Scandinavians, who make full use of their short-lived yearly time outdoors. 

Photo by Mette Krull

Use natural and recycled materials. Weathered wood, old benches, and metal bins transformed into planters are gentle incursions on nature’s domain.

Photo courtesy of Studiomama

Use colors found in nature. As backdrops, gray, brown, white, and green will complement the plants and trees in the surrounding landscape.

Photo by Meredith Swinehart

Photo by Claus Dalby

Take a minimalist approach to hardscaping elements such as paths and fences to allow them to blend into their natural surroundings.

Photo courtesy of Food Studio

Don’t try to tame your garden.

Photo courtesy of Kaffesrosteriet

Learn from your plants. Take note of the ones that are flourishing in your garden; they are happy with the sunlight, soil, and water conditions.

Build a privy.

Photo courtesy of General Architecture

Photo by Erin Boyle

Don’t give up gardening in the winter. Set up a potting shed or indoor area that’s pleasant to work in when the weather is inhospitable.