Add a Tropical Flair to Your Backyard With These 6 Tips

Your backyard should be an oasis that makes you feel entirely at home and like you’re on vacation. While that might not sound entirely possible, you can create the oasis of your dreams, whether you live somewhere with a tropical climate or you simply want to capture that vibe. 

If you’re inspired but aren’t sure where to start, here are just a few ways you can bring a bit of the tropics into your home. 

1. Put Plants Everywhere

This tip probably comes as no surprise to you, but it truly is one of the best ways to bring a tropical feel into any space. One of the best parts of decorating with plants is that they’re natural. They can improve air quality, mood and the environment. You can fill your garden with tropical plants like elephant’s ear, bird of paradise, ficus and philodendrons — these are all easy to grow and keep alive.

2. Use Water

The sound of dripping or running water can be relaxing and tropical — making you feel like a rain forest is right around the corner. If you want that zen vibe right in your own backyard, try adding a water feature like a fountain, small lagoon or miniature waterfall. These features sound great, look pretty and can bring a sense of movement into your space.

3. Utilize Natural Materials

Tropical vibes aren’t all about the accessories, though. In fact, much of that island feeling can come from the materials you use in furniture and accessories. Recycled wood, bamboo, wicker, burlap and other items can bring a natural feel to your backyard, especially when juxtaposed with a setting of greenery and plant life.

4. Add Pops of Color

Tropical inspiration isn’t always just about plants and serenity. In fact, the aesthetics are most often lively and bright. Adding some vibrant pops of color can truly make a difference. Whether you seek hibiscus-colored throw pillows or find an ocean-toned outdoor rug, the idea is to bring color to your backyard.

5. Hang Around

While you can take any direction you want with furniture, hammocking is definitely a tropical-feeling way to lounge. Some people have portable hammocks, but you can also find permanent ones that are a bit sturdier. It’s all about your comfort and preference.

6. Light the Way

You can’t forget about the lighting. While hanging lights aren’t always tropical in nature, they can make any space feel a bit cozier and more comfortable. Plus, lanterns, string lights and tiki torches can bring a bit of an island vibe if that’s what you’re looking for. Lighting can be a form of decor and not just a functional fixture. 

Tropical Dreams

Everyone’s style is a little different, and you can create a tropical paradise in your backyard however fits you best. Whether you hang a hammock or use a water feature, your little corner of the tropics will be unique to your home and will be the perfect spot to chill out.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison