Living in the age of a pandemic, outdoor living has never been more attractive. Perhaps, those extra hours on the deck lead to a natural question: How can I make this deck even better?

If you’ve been itching for home improvement, you’re not alone. According to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Pinterest searches for “deck renovation ideas” are up 97%, and “backyard renovation ideas” are up 98%.

As 2020 reaches mid-year, what are some of the trending ideas for outdoor living? Consider these three categories:

Bring On The Green

If you’ve thought of adding more green to your deck, you’re in good company, as “budget garden inspiration ideas” searches on Pinterest are up 528%. In March, Burpee sold more seed than at any time in its 144-year history, and Johnny’s Selected Seeds in Maine, saw a 270 percent increase in orders the week after U.S. President Donald Trump declared a national emergency, according to Reuters.

So whether you’ve already planted a garden or want to add more green to your deck, you can do it, even in small spaces. To add beauty, color, and texture, consider these tips for container gardening success. The key is “thrillers, fillers, and spillers.” Thrillers add height, and fillers are medium-sized plants, and spillers are the vines and low-growing plants that spill over the sides of your container. Be sure to choose plants based on the amount of sunlight your container will get.

Be sure that any container plants on your deck have good drainage and that water isn’t getting trapped between the pot and your deck boards. Over time, this can cause damage or staining. Simply elevating the pots on risers, bricks, or plant stands will enhance the beauty and functionality of your container garden.

Eating Out

While grilling out on the deck has always been a favorite — not only for ordinary family meals but also extraordinary celebrations — homeowners today are getting even more creative with eating out on the deck. Pinterest reports a huge uptick in interest in outdoor kitchen bars — +2,795%!

Outdoor bars provide a chance for you to try out your best smoothie or cocktail recipe. An outdoor bar can be as simple as a drink cart or as elaborate as a fully stocked bar with sink and refrigerator. Find a new recipe for summer grilling — from veggies to meats to dessert!  

For those with a drainage system under their two-story deck, the opportunity to create year-round dry, useable space opens up even more options. Outdoor kitchens can include almost as many amenities today as an indoor kitchen.  

Going For Comfort

No matter what amenities you want to add to your deck — be it an upgrade in lighting or built-in seating — homeowners want their outdoor living spaces to be comfortable. Now may be the perfect time to add a hammock or replace worn-out cushions and furniture.

You might also think of ways to make your deck more fun for kids and pets, as you spend more time outdoors this summer. On Pinterest there’s been a 191% increase in rabbit hutches and a 550% increase in “outdoor play areas.” You can also find some fun ideas for “catios” — outdoor play spaces for cats!

No matter what the next months hold, you can create fun memories on your deck. Enjoy outdoor living to the fullest!