HEAD GEAR   Keep your cool while blocking the sun’s rays with Sunday Afternoons Sun Tripper Cap. Ideal for yard work, the lightweight hat is made of a breathable fabric and features mesh venting panels and an adjustable sizing cord. It comes in three sizes and several colors, and can be found at sundayafternoons.com.

GARDEN ART A rusted-steel frame wraps around three hand-forged blooms in Metallic Evolution’s “Field Daisy” wall hanging. The metal piece measures 34" by 22" and is fitted in back with stainless steel pins that hold it away from the wall, creating depth as well as keeping rust off the wall surface. Find this and other designs at Southwest Gardener, (602) 279-9510; swgardener.com.

PLANT SITTER   Soil Moist Mats make it easy to keep potted plants watered for weeks at a time while you are away from home. Simply saturate the mats with water, place your potted plants on top, and the mats will slowly release moisture to the plants’ roots. Available in packs of two, they can be found at tmseeds.com.

Outdoor Inspiration

Alfresco living spaces may take on a different meaning after you’ve read the Outdoor Entertaining Idea Book (The Taunton Press) by Natalie Ermann Russell. The author and former editor of Martha Stewart Living magazine explores the possibilities, with topics ranging from outdoor dining areas to intimate garden spaces.

To create a garden room, which Russell often describes as a hidden oasis, she advises incorporating lighting, furniture, water features and accessories, as well as a designated path leading to the space. Setting the mood for outdoor rooms can be as simple as adding pots or hedges that reflect the desired formality. Easy-to-prepare recipes are sprinkled throughout the entertaining guide. —Mary Modney



GARDEN TIP
Hummingbird nectar recipe: Dissolve one cup cane sugar in four cups spring or tap water and pour into feeder.  —The Hummingbird Society