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The Hospitality
Garden
30
March 2004
 More
and more people are discovering that the garden
is the ideal place for entertaining.
It has long been a favourite for birthday parties
(fingers crossed) for a dry, warm, sunny day.
Home and garden entertainment for the grown-ups
is on the increase and mixing business with
pleasure in the evening is a sure way to impress
the boss.
This is the month to knock the garden into shape.
A good tidy up all round with the weeds eliminated,
(temporarily) paths cleared, shrubs pruned and
the lawn manicured will work wonders.
 There
are two main areas for conversation, business
or pleasure. The main meeting place is the patio.
It needs to be large enough to accommodate the
visitors together with a scattering of seating.
A level surface of attractive tiles or paviors
is essential.
Fragrant plants in raised beds and containers
will help create a relaxed atmosphere. And,
as a “ room outdoors', the patio will
work best if positioned close to the house,
preferably with direst
access from a conservatory or living area.
Then there is the secluded area for a quiet
chat. In larger gardens a comfortable bench
seat further down the path, or under a tree,
will bring out the best in your guests. With
the bright, sunny days and the warmer evenings
an arbour or hidden garden furnished with
comfortable chairs and a table will soon be
in demand.
Sturdy, all-weather furniture will avoid the
rush and hassle of setting out seating at the
last moment. Cushions may be kept in the sun
lounge or shed ready to hand. Stepping stone
paths through the lawn allows the garden to
be enjoyed even when the grass is wet.
Even with the hour added on for summer it is
still dark quite early on. Lights can be dramatic
at dusk with individual trees and shrubs highlighted
and their shadows seen to be constantly on the
move in the slightest breeze.
Moving water begs to be picked out of the darkness
and candles and their holders are the in-accessories.
Large, aromatic, outdoor candles help keep the
evening insects at bay while those in glass
and wrought iron holders add a sense of romance.
Try to position the barbecue with the smells
of cooking (and burnt offerings) drifting down
wind of your friends.
Have a pleasant evening.
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