Gardening For All Seasons Presents

PATIO UMBRELLAS

Six Reasons to Have a Patio Umbrella

1. Shade, of course. Everyone likes to sit in the sun, but on the hottest days it's important to have the option to sit in the shade while you drink your pink lemonade or iced tea. You'll avoid sunburn, and if you have tender container plants that wilt in the sun, you can move them under a patio umbrella for temporary relief.

2. Enjoy the rainstorm. A large market umbrella will allow you to stay sheltered from the storm (as long as there's no thunder and lightning involved). There's something pleasant about the muffled, relaxing sound of rain pattering on the stretched fabric of an umbrella. If you're eating dinner outside, there's no need to rush frantically around bringing dishes back inside.

3. Color. The right patio umbrella can add a splash of color to your deck or garden and brighten up the cloudiest days. You can get a bright red umbrella, or a green one that complements your garden. Some patio umbrellas offer cheerful striped patterns as well.

4. Style. A patio umbrella can reflect the style of your deck or garden. You can get a festive and informal thatched umbrella, or, if you entertain frequently at night, an umbrella with lights built in. If your garden is formal, consider a square umbrella.

5. Gather your guests. On a deck, a patio umbrella can provide a focal point for your visitors, bringing them together. The umbrella defines a point of interest - usually a table with food and beverages. People tend to congregate around food, and a patio umbrella says: "Look over here for food and drinks!" The umbrella will also protect the food, shading food that needs to remain cool and guarding against falling leaves.

6. Personality. You can customize your umbrella with a logo or even get hand-painted umbrellas to add a touch of uniqueness to your home or business. Even though an umbrella is utilitarian, it doesn't need to be boring!