As cedar deck design and construction enthusiasts, we propose holding your next Earth Day planting party on your cedar deck. A cedar deck is a great place for an Earth Day party because it's a stable, flat area that's easy to clean up post-soiree. Here are our tips on how to throw a fun, inspiring Earth Day planting party on your cedar deck.

Tips on Hosting a Cedar Deck Planting Party

1. Getting Ready: DIY Cedar Deck Safety Inspection

Experts estimate that almost half of American cedar decks are unsafe due to structural issues. To protect your guests' safety, ensure that your cedar deck is architecturally strong by assessing it for wood rot. Examine all areas of your decking, particularly the ground posts and the ledger, the area where the cedar deck joins exterior walls. One way to establish a deck's stability is to hoola hoop in the middle of it. If the "hoola hoop test" turns up any unsteadiness, it's time to call a cedar deck design and construction guru. Make sure your cedar deck is safe before hosting a garden party.

2. Getting the Word Out: Interesting Earth Day Party Invitations

Once you know that your cedar deck is safe and sound, you can disseminate the 411 about your Earth Day party! Those who like to hand out physical invitations might get a kick out of seed envelope invites. Miniature envelopes with string clasps are available at office stores. Stick a gardening- or earth-themed sticker onto the front of each envelope; this sticker should include the basic information about the party - where, when, why, etc. The beauty of this kind of party notification is that each invite doubles as a take-home container for extra seeds left over after the planting party.

3. Preparing the Space for your Planting Party

Your first step is to remove debris by sweeping your cedar deck. Design an effective flow for your bash by determining where to set up the planting table, where attendees will mosey about and socialize, and where refreshments should be arranged. This may also be a good time to weed around the flora surrounding your cedar deck. Lastly, be certain to guard your cedar deck by placing waterproof tablecloths or a tarp down where planting will occur. This simple step will defend your cedar deck from unsightly scratches.

4. Assemble Planting Accessories

A watering can, seeds or starts, compost/amendment, and planting soil - these are the basic ingredients you will need for your Earth Day planting party. Soil amendment such as compost will encourage your guests' new seedlings to flourish. Shortly before the party, combine soil and amendment in a big bowl, which should be placed in the planting area on your cedar deck. To avoid confusion, place each seed variety in its own container near the soil bowl. Planting directions should be listed for each seed. Place a full watering can nearby. Remember, freshly planted seeds and starts need a drink shortly following planting. If you're feeling munificent, you can also set out planting containers. Alternatively, you can direct guests to bring their own planting containers.

When a guest arrives, show her or him to your planting area. It's wise to arrange the planting materials on a generous table at one end of your cedar deck. Design the gardening "buffet" so that all items are within reach.