Ree Drummond, better known as The Pioneer Woman, is synonymous with the kitchen, but this spring/summer, she's taking her expertise into the yard.
The founder of her eponymous lifestyle empire (including a cooking show on the Food Network), The Pioneer Woman is no stranger to setting kitchen trends and culinary habits. This week, however, Ree launched a new outdoor collection with Walmart, and we'd say that her pieces will have reshaped garden trends before spring is out.
We could think of no better person, therefore, to chat about all things outdoor living than Ree – whose collection spans colorful patio furniture, planters, and garden déco. First on our agenda: the question of how to elevate our backyard – fast.
'Solid colored seating can be lovely and grounding, and from there, you can build in the impact with patterned planters and the plants and flowers you choose,' Ree says.
'I love a mix of wavy native grasses in pots, with bright colored annuals and even herbs. Add your own personality with a garden stake or two, and just make sure every choice you make is well thought out,' Ree says.
This tip can work anywhere in your yard, but The Pioneer Woman urges us to experiment on our patio – for ultimate impact.
'My ideal back patio is my teal bistro set (below) with a mix of patterned pots, each with a different plant or flower (or herb) that complements the others. It's always a dreamy look,' she says.
Sometimes, in the run-up to spring and summer, we can feel caught up in trying to create the 'perfect' backyard. However, the secret, according to Ree, is simple.
'My best advice is to keep it classic and simple – as long as you have good quality planters and accessories, beautiful, healthy plants and flowers, and a comfortable spot to enjoy it all and entertain a friend – that's all you really need.'
'It's definitely tempting to try out trends, but just make sure it's something that you're able to maintain over time. If not, it will take all the fun out of it.'
When it comes to picking a design feature to avoid, Ree says that everything can look great when done correctly. However, in recent years she has always avoided pavers with grass growing all around. 'It always seems like a mowing and weed-eating nightmare to me. But they sure look pretty when they're done right.'
You can shop for more of our favorite picks, designed by Ree, below.
