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As many of us are spending more time at home in the era of coronavirus, our backyards have become our havens, our places to stand in the sun or dig in the dirt. And green spaces go beyond the yard—a balcony, a window over a park across the street, or some houseplants in a corner. Any of these can put us a bit closer to nature.
Here you’ll find what some of us at CR and some of you are up to in our “backyards,” along with tips and inspiration on new ways to enjoy your space. Just click on any of the photos or videos. Share your backyard activities on Instagram with the hashtag #BackyardOasis and tag @consumerreports and we might include your post here.
Grilling
Grills are getting a whole lot more use as “going out to eat” just requires stepping out the back door.
CR TIPS
Paul Hope, a CR home writer and classically trained chef, shares secrets for grilling vegetables.
FIND A GREAT GRILL
Best Gas Grills
Best Charcoal Grills
Best Pellet Grills
WHAT’S COOKING IN YOUR BACKYARD
@bluerhinoco
@the_southerntransplants
@zimmysnook
@my.cooking.profile
@bbqbrowny
@localseverywhere
@simmonsx6tv
@can2_bbq
@youngjamesbbq
Gardening
You may have noticed that everyone on the block has suddenly developed a green thumb. Get some ideas on how to make your yard, balcony or windowsill beautiful.
CR TIPS
Courtney Pennicooke, a CR home improvement tester, shows off his ultra-creative recycling approach to get beautiful gardens.
THE RIGHT MOWER FOR YOUR LAWN
Best Lawn Mowers and Tractors
Best Lawn Mowers for Small Yards
Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers
WHAT’S GROWING IN YOUR BACKYARD
@good_life_garden
@rl.lester
@itsjanetswan
@maliamharmon
@sreshtaphotography
@mydreamcanvas
@mustseemarie
@acharyashunya
@seasonsinmind
Planting Indoors
Some of the most awe-inspiring green spaces can be found on windowsills and balconies.
CR TIPS
Digital designer Whitney Baumann explains how simple it is to start a hydroponic garden.
BUILD A BETTER INDOOR ENVIRONMENT
Best Air Purifiers
Water Filter Pitchers
Are Herbs Good for Your Health?
WHAT’S GROWING IN YOUR HOME
@sambhavpriyanka
@rococogadget/
@cywill972
@theplant.nook
@takashoo
@house.plantsuk
@rjkarunungan
@happymatity
@home_full_of_recipes
Playing Outside
Families are figuring out creative ways to get exercise, stay productive, and have fun while sheltering in place.
CR TIPS
CR registered dietitian Amy Keating shares tips on simple composting.
TOOLS TO STAY IN SHAPE
How to Keep Fit During the Coronavirus
Best Fitness Trackers
How Much Exercise Do You Need?
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN YOUR BACKYARD
@tatezcellist
@kamesh_munu
@ramunas_zilys_calisthenics
@ganga.lifting
@tiedye_chik
@rollors
@playgosports
@coach_ria_mestiza
@quako1975
Note: CR does not endorse the posts or content creators featured on this page.
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