Date night? Make it picnic perfect.

Looking for something different than the typical dinner and a movie? Take your date night outside! An old-fashioned lawn picnic is easy, economical, and best of all - downright romantic. Cook up something special or take it out: It doesn't matter. The sights, scents and sensations of the open air will make for a most memorable evening. Here's how you can make a great night of it.

 

Choose - and improve - your spot.

Don't just plop down anywhere. Look for the place in your yard with the best view and the most privacy. Perhaps it's tucked in the back where you're surrounded by sweet-smelling perennials. Or right outside the door adorned with container gardens.  

Once you've chosen where to dine al fresco, survey the area for any eyesores - and get rid of them. Remove weeds, kids' or pet toys, garden tools... anything that takes away from the natural beauty.

 

Go ahead and get cushy.

A nice thick blanket is a picnic staple. But the ultimate is to place it on top of a soft, plush layer of grass. Keep your lawn supple with adequate watering. (Just remember to let the grass dry before your big night.)  

Then give it a fresh mowing, and mow high, not cutting any shorter than one-third of your grass's length. Check out our chart to see how high you can let your grass species grow to get the cushiest cush. Finally, be sure to rake away any lawn clippings around your picnic area so they don't end up blowing in your potato salad.

 

Add a little something extra.

For a very suitable centerpiece, put some clippings from your flower gardens into a vase and set it on a tray for stability. And keep your blanket from flapping in the wind with rustic accents - rocks on each corner.  

What about throw pillows?
Throw pillows? Why not. They're great for cushioning your tush or for laying your head while stargazing.

 

Set the mood lighting.

Pass on the outdoor floodlight and place tiki torches around your yard instead. Citronella tea candles around the tray with your centerpiece will also create a flattering, and mosquito repelling, glow. And unless it's an unusually sweltering evening, you can't beat the ambiance of crackling flames in a fire pit.

 

Bug off.

Don't take the chance that you'll have to end your date abruptly because of an onslaught of biting pests. Try a mosquito repellent that attaches to your hose (you can find these at garden and home improvement stores) and spray your backyard 12 hours in advance. This should keep the buggers away for up to two weeks.

Now that's a special night out. And who knows? Your backyard could become your favorite spot. No reservations required.