What advice do you have for maintaining an outdoor living space in the Caribbean climate?

Question: “What advice do you have for maintaining an outdoor living space in the Caribbean climate?”

Our Answer:

St Croix has mostly warm, sunny days, beautiful sunsets and starry night time skies. Some days we have rain and hotter temperatures. Here are some things we do to help maintain our outdoor living space year round:

Outdoor furniture – There are so many options for outdoor furniture! Our favorites are ones which are easy to clean and can be hosed off. In choosing your furniture, think of comfort, esthetics, cleaning and durability.
Cushions and pillows – These should be attractive, comfortable, durable and easy to clean. We recommend fabrics which will withstand the sun, are easy to wash, and feel good.
Outdoor lighting – For solar lights, make sure that the color panels are clear of dirt or leaves so that they capture the sun and illuminate pathways. Strings of lights should be hung in such a way as to be easily removed in case of a storm. Many people have motion detection lights. With all of the salt in the air, check occasionally for rust.
Cleaning patios – At some point, you will want to pressure wash your patio. The furniture should be easy to move, and you will need water and power sources nearby.
Plants – Make sure that there’s a hose bib so that you can either water by hand, or hook up drip irrigation. Remember, plants don’t have a dormant season here, but grow all year. So, plan for those plants to get large! Growing plants suited for your area of the island will decrease the maintenance. There are lovely lush tropical plants which need more water, and succulents which are very low maintenance.
Bird feeders and bird baths – We have several of these all around our house. Refill feeders and baths every day. This brings birds into the garden so you can see them up close, and can help you reconnect with nature.