From dirt to green thumbs: Reclaiming my patio for spring

Oh, spring! Now that the days are longer and the birds are singing, I want to work in the yard more than ever.

But there is one essential thing I need to do before I can let out my inner Monet with bright flowers and fragrant plants: I need to get my patio back from winter.

This year's season was incredibly long and wet, so my once-cute outdoor area looked like a lost jungle gym.

The tiles were a bright emerald green color because moss had grown on them and determined weeds were taking over between the cracks.

The implication is that "welcoming" wasn't the first word that sprang to mind.

I headed out to turn my unkempt patio into a lush desert spring armed only with a power washer and a strong determination.

It was challenging, I have to say!

The mud flew around with the ferocity of an unhinged garden gnome.

My once pristine jeans were soon caked, and a healthy layer of dirt found its way to every inch of my body (including my hair).

My ever-faithful French bulldog Funs offered unwavering moral support throughout this seven-hour saga—well, moral support in the broadest sense.

He mainly supervised from a safe distance and occasionally barked worriedly when the mud splashes reached alarming heights.

The tide started to turn slowly but surely.

With each strong spray of water, the green attackers moved out of the way, showing the tiles' hidden beauty.

The stubborn weeds, once a symbol of winter, were no match for the determined water jet.

Inch by inch, my patio surrendered, and a sense of accomplishment (and exhaustion) engulfed me.

Looking back, seven hours of mud-slinging may not have been the most glamorous way to spend a spring afternoon.

But as I survey my now clean and shiny patio, the satisfaction is enormous. Funs seems to like it, too.

He has already claimed a sunny corner, enjoying the warmth and curiously sniffing the fresh tiles.

Now that there is a 'clean slate,' the options are endless.

Window boxes that look great are full of petunias, marigolds, lavender plants, and maybe a clematis that climbs up the sides.

Soon, the buzz of honey bees, the moving of butterflies, and the song of birds will drown out the noise of the strain washer.

My home will become a peaceful and lovely place to be.

If you're looking at a deck that still needs to be dealt with this spring, feel free!

With some hard work (and maybe a pressure washer!), you can return your outdoor space and turn it into a lovely garden.

Remember the mud-resistant gear—and a special mud avoidance zone for your furry companion.

Here are a few lessons from my power-washing adventure:

Safety first! You must wear safety glasses and protective clothes to protect yourself from moving objects.
Prepare for the mess! Cover nearby furniture and plants and prepare for mud trails everywhere (waterproof footwear is a lifesaver).
Patience is key. Power washing takes time and effort, especially in neglected areas.
The reward is worth it! Seeing your patio change from drab to fabulous is a very satisfying experience.
White vinegar can also remove green deposits from your tiles, but you'll need more patience and time.