Screened Porch Almost Completed!

One of my long term goals was to have a screened in porch.  I really wanted to be able to sit bug-free for a nap, or reading, on some hot summer days and evenings.

Here is what we had

A few goals I had in mind:

• Big doors that allow for easy access of BBQ, or lots of guests;
• Mostly bug free;
• Lots of flowing air;
• Little obstruction of the view of our fields and forest;
• Ability to access the clothes line;
• Easy access from the house
• Some shade in the summer 

I have accomplished most of the goals and it is now one of my favourite spots to take a break.

Here is what we have now:

To the South I have a very fast growing Ash tree and an extremely fast growing Catalpa to the South-East.  These have been planted here to provide shade in summer and then drop their leaves and allow sunlight to enter in the Fall/Winter.

I have grape vines coming on that provide some nice shade in the heat of a summer day.  Also helping are the Scarlett Runner Beans that I have rapidly climbing up some twine.  Out on the lawn some trees have been planted to ultimately provide shade and eventually some food.  On the West, I have an Oak, a Heartnut and Walnut.   

Lots of open area to the West

Shade from the Catalpa in the South-East corner

Large rolling door that allows access to the clothes line

Grape Vines coming along on the South

Scarlett Runner Beans adding shade on the West.