With daylight stretching into early evenings and warm weather headed our way, it’s time to focus on your outdoor space for the season.

Here are five easy ideas for a porch and patio upgrade:

1. Add plants.

Don’t limit your greenery to the garden. One of the fastest ways to freshen up a patio or porch space is to add plants. Consider placing a few planter boxes filled with flowers beneath your windows or add pots with greenery on either side of your front door for a welcoming entrance. If you’re lacking space on the ground, install a few hooks in the ceiling of your porch or beneath your raised deck and hang baskets with trailing plants and vines.

Tip: If you’re a beginner, cultivate your green thumb with a few hard-to-kill plant varieties. Marigolds, violets and pansies are hardy flowers that work well in containers. Check the care label on your plant to make sure it will thrive in your home.

2. Bring inside decor outside.

Indoor-outdoor living gets more popular each year as homeowners look for ways to bring nature into their daily lives. It’s helped more decor options for your outdoor space are better than ever. Bring the indoors out by adding sturdy, rust-resistant furniture to your porch or patio. Then, increase comfort and add a few pops of color with weather-resistant pillows and cushions. Illuminate your entertainment area with string fairy lights so guests can stay well past sunset.

Tip: If you have a smaller space, consider adding a sturdy outdoor mirror to your porch or patio — it can make the area seem much larger than it really is. Avoid a fire hazard by placing the mirror out of direct sunlight. And make sure the reflection won’t confuse the flight patterns of passing birds.

3. Incorporate appliances.

Whether you’re looking to add a second kitchen or need a convenient spot to wash up after a swim, more appliances are available for outdoor use. Everything from outdoor fridges and stovetops to showers are now available. Even electronics such as speakers and televisions are available in weatherproof versions to expand your living space.

4. Get some privacy.

Create a private, enclosed sanctuary on your porch or patio, and add some shade to your space, with decorative lattice or outdoor drapes. If you’d like to try a more natural solution, consider planting some trees around the yard to shield your home from the hot sun — and prying eyes. Even a small trellis with climbing vines can make a big difference in the look and feel of the area. For a more permanent solution, consider adding a screened-in porch to your property.

5. Invest in fun upgrades.

Treat yourself to a few fun things — a fire pit can make your patio area an instant gathering place that you can enjoy even on chilly nights. Or consider hiring a pro to install colourful outdoor tile to make the space pop. You can also look into increasing your outdoor seating options with fun pieces like hammocks or porch swings.