3 Tips for Protecting Your Boat

Owning a luxury condo at the Lake of the Ozarks means that you can enjoy all the boating opportunities the area offers. If you own a boat, you also need to take some steps to protect your investment. At Isla Del Sol, we have designed our Island complex to protect your boat, and at our beautiful 360-degree condominium complex, we offer slips for sale that can help prevent your boat from damage from wakes and the elements. Here are 3 tips for protecting your boat and making your stay at the lake enjoyable throughout the year.

1. Choose the Best Slip for Your Boat

Choosing a slip for your boat is some of the best protection from the water you can get. The first step is choosing a slip that can hold up your boat. You need to know the boats length, width, and weight when choosing a lift. If there are any doubts, it's probably better to over-specify than to under quote. We can accommodate nearly any size/style of boats. Our slip sizes are: 12x32, 12x36, 14x36, 14x40, and 16x40.    

2. Secure Your Boat Properly

If you are out enjoying the beautiful Lake of the Ozarks and decide to stop at one of our local water bars or need to fuel up, there are some tips to help prevent boat damage from the dock. Use two ropes on the bow of the boat, one on each side to stabilize the vessel and prevent it from swaying too far one way or the other. On the stern, use two crossed ropes, going from one side of the vessel to the other side of the slip. When tying the knot onto the slip, use a knot that can be untied quickly but won't come undone on its own, such as a proper cleat hitch knot. Remember to leave enough slack if waves strike, so that the boat can move independently of the dock, without being drug around by the rope. 

3. Use Bumpers to Prevent Damage

If your boat is put away for the day or you find yourself at a busy dock for a night of dinner and entertainment, throw some bumpers on the sides of the boat. This just-in-case feature pays for itself in-case of accidents. You can't watch your boat all the time, and should the dock crew incorrectly tie your boat into the slip, it might bump or grind into the slip. Bumpers can help mitigate this damage, possibly saving you in repairs along with preventing accidental damage to the dock!  

Isla Del Sol Wants to Protect Your Investment

Our private island condominium paradise wants to make sure that your watercraft is able to stay protected. Utilize our slips to prevent your boat from being damaged. The next time you stay at the Lake's best waterfront condos, come down and look at our docks. We offer 5 different options which can contain sizes from PWCs to 40 ft. watercraft. Come to Isla Del Sol at the Lake of the Ozarks for a great view and a perfect vacation home; stay for the amazing community and private island community!

Come back often to see all of the exciting things happening at Isla Del Sol.

Visit our website

Like Us on Facebook

Follow Us on Twitter

Follow Us on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

Follow Us on Google+ 

Spruce up your Condo with an Indoor Garden!

Deciding to make the move to a condo at the Lake of the Ozarks may be a difficult choice to make if you're an avid gardener. Your lawn is maintained for you, so there's not much to be done in the way of landscaping beautification. Just because the work outside is done for you when you live in a condominium at the Lake of the Ozarks, doesn't mean you can't put that green thumb creativity to use inside! Condos can be easily decorated to create a springtime vibe with some of these great indoor gardening ideas.

Plant Vertically 
Condo living can sometimes mean limited square footage for gardening both indoors and out, so make the most of the space you have by thinking vertically. Fill a bookshelf and decorate it with potted plants. To give your home a little more of an outdoorsy feel, repurpose pallets into wall gardens for your living room. This will not only create a colorful and relaxing environment but will also second as a conversational piece when you have guests over. Include similar potted plants to your end tables to tie it all together.

Add Color!
Add color to all of your rooms by stationing fun potted plants and vases with freshly-picked bouquets of flowers around your condo. Select plants and flowers that tie in with other colors in the room. For example, if you have a favorite piece of art deco displayed in your dining room, and really want to draw out the reds and yellows to make it pop more, place an arrangement of zinnias or roses in an eye-catching yellow planter as your dining table centerpiece. If you have fun patterned throw pillows you want to display in your guest room but are afraid they'll stick out like a sore thumb, create a flow of color that will enhance the pillows by putting a plant of similar color on the nightstand or dresser. In your kitchen, you can bring some outside in by growing your own herbs and displaying them on a window sill or add shelving to store them as part of your decor.

Utilize The Balcony

Why shouldn't your balcony double as a garden? Luckily, our condominiums at the Lake of the Ozarks have a beautiful covered outdoor space. Planters filled with patio, mini or dwarf roses will provide colorful blooms all summer long. Utilize the railings around your balcony to hang planter baskets. This will not only eliminate the use of precious patio floor space but will also create a natural break between your outdoor living room set and your view of the condo complex. For a more easily transferable solution for your patio, you can add casters to your planters for quick and easy mobility.

Bring The Outside In
As you can see there are several ways to implement an indoor garden in your condo. Just remember, the purpose of an indoor garden is to bring the outside in and create a fun and inviting ambiance to your home. Don't forget to care for your indoor plants properly to ensure that they're looking their best at all times. Wherever you choose to show off your plants in your home, you'll want to make sure there's lots of windows and sunlight for ample growth of your plants. If your condo doesn't offer many options for direct sunlight, consider synthetic lighting options. The best part about indoor gardening is the ability to control your plant's environment to produce the most beautiful plants and flowers.

So if you're hesitant on the idea of condo living at the Lake of the Ozarks because of the lack of space to showcase your gardening skills, there are plenty of opportunities to get creative with your green thumb and bring your vibrant garden with you! We invite you to discover a new path to your island getaway right here at Isla Del Sol Condominiums at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Visit our website

Like Us on Facebook

Follow Us on Twitter

Follow Us on LinkedIn
Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

Follow Us on Google+ 

Condo Features to Consider

When moving into a condo at the Lake of the Ozarks, there are different things to take into account that are characteristic of condo living, which is distinctly different than living in a residential home. Isla Del Sol Condominiums offers private island living with a beautiful lake side pool, a dog walking area, and easy access to the parking and community boat docks. Below are some typical features of condos to consider:

Common Areas

The amenities and common areas are often big draws of waterfront condos at the Lake of the Ozarks. A community boat dock, for example, might be a must for boating enthusiasts. If buyers have a dog, having a grassy area dedicated for pets can be a draw. Since the common area features make each complex unique, special consideration should be given to the amenities that the buyer considers most important. The condominium dues, in part, will be based on the common areas.

Parking

Convenient and ample parking is an important consideration when looking for a condominium. Most developments have on-site parking areas in a parking garage or adjacent to each building. Many times, each unit will be assigned a certain number of parking spaces, often based on the number of bedrooms in the unit.

Security

Condominium developments can have a variety of safety measures in place to help protect the complex and its residents. Locked access to community facilities, and well-lit parking areas, hallways and common areas are all measures that can be used to help keep the development and its residents secure.

The condominium complex should have an emergency plan for dealing with a fire, flood, power failure or natural disaster. Large developments will most likely have fire suppression systems and smoke detectors where applicable. Each unit should also have its own 911 address so that emergency teams can quickly and easily respond to calls.

Social Opportunities

Condo living provides an easy way for social interaction among the residents. A variety of on-site events, such as BBQs and pool parties to getting out and boating or golfing give residents opportunities to maintain social relationships with their neighbors. 

Storage Space

Since condominium owners typically do not have garages, tool sheds, attics and basements, adequate storage space is often important. Buyers will need to utilize bedroom closets, kitchen cupboards, entry closets, living room and dining room cabinets, and bathroom/linen for additional storage. Isla Del Sol Condominiums offers private storage lockers for things like beach chairs, sporting equipment, and boating necessities.

Isla Del Sol Condominiums Has Top-Notch Amenities 

As a resident of Isla Del Sol Condominiums, you will enjoy an exquisite lake side resort-style pool with zero entry, a playground for kids, direct elevator access to all floors, ample parking, and boat slips at the community dock. There is not a better Lake of the Ozarks condo to spend your summer days! Contact us at (573) 552-8418, and see what sets our waterfront condominiums apart from the rest.

Come back often to see all of the exciting things happening at Isla Del Sol.

Visit our website

Like Us on Facebook

Follow Us on Twitter

Follow Us on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

Follow Us on Google+ 

Get Fresh With These Local Farmers Markets at the Lake of the Ozarks

If you favor fruits and veggies at farmers markets, and fresh baked goods, meat, eggs, and dairy products, then you are in luck. There are four farmers markets in close proximity to the best condos at the Lake of the Ozarks. Many of them make locally made crafts and other handmade goods. If you can bare stepping away from your paradise at Isla Del Sol Condominiums, we recommend browsing some of the local goods at these farmers markets:

Eldon Farmers Market

May 6 - August 26

Rock Island Park

The Eldon Farmers Market will be held every Friday night from 4 - 7 PM. This is a great stop for those passing through on the weekends to the lake. 

Photo: Three Arrows Collective Facebook

Handmade & Farmers Market

May 7 - September 3

Three Arrows Store at Copperhead Trading Post

Every Saturday from 10 AM - 2 PM, you can find the best in fresh produce, baked goods, handcrafted items from local artisans, and much more. Three Arrows features organic-inspired treasures of recycled metal, natural wood, and handmade delights that have a soul of their own. You don't want to miss this charming boutique in Lake of the Ozarks.

Osage Beach Farmers Market

May 7 - September 24
Stone Crest Mall

This weekly farmers market is held every Saturday, offering locally grown produce, meat, baked goods, and artisan crafts. Grass-fed beef, heirloom vegetables, and free-range eggs are some of the most popular items. Find vendors and farmers set up in the parking lot across from Hy-Vee, behind Starbucks in Osage Beach from 9 AM - 1 PM.  

Camdenton Farmers & Merchants Market

Photo: Farmers Market in Camdenton Facebook

May 7 - October 29

Camden County Courthouse

Farmers and merchants sell their fresh goods and handmade items on the Camdenton Square in the courthouse parking lot. They are open every Saturday from 7 AM - 12 PM.

Experience all the Lake Has to Offer at Isla Del Sol Condominiums

When you want to get away from it all there is no place quite like Isla Del Sol luxury condos at the Lake of the Ozarks. Not only can you experience panoramic views of the lake from nearly every place in the complex, but the property features an exquisite resort-style lakeside pool with zero-entry fountains, and splash fountains for children, a dog walking area, ample parking, boat docks, and PWC slips. Isla Del Sol Condominiums' central location lets you enjoy everything the lake has to offer, including first-class boating, golfing, and fishing. Shopping options are abundant, from the premium retail outlet stores to handcrafted goods at our four local farmers markets.

Come back often to see all of the exciting things happening at Isla Del Sol.

Visit our website

Like Us on Facebook

Follow Us on Twitter

Follow Us on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

Follow Us on Google+ 

Create the Perfect At-Home Office Arrangement

Today, working from home has become very common with the advancement of technology. If you work from your Lake of the Ozarks' condo, you may be wondering how to effectively configure your at-home office space. Isla Del Sol Condominiums feature roomy three bedroom units, which can be ideal for finding a dedicated work space. Here are some questions to ask yourself when looking for a potential at-home office arrangement:

Do You Need a Private Space?

If your work requires a dedicated space that is quiet or private, you may want an area with a door and location away from the main activity of the home. An extra bedroom that is not utilized is perfect for this situation. This is also ideal if your business requires you to keep confidential information and sensitive files.

Can You Share?

With more couples sharing a business and working from home, finding available space for two is challenging. In this case, converting one of the bedrooms into a shared office, so you can keep the other bedroom open for guests is optimal. Small desks set up in opposite corners, and a central location for printers and other devices can save space. 

Do You Prefer Being Around Others?

Working from home can feel isolating at times and being around others can make you feel apart of the activity. If you can remain focused and block out noise to complete your tasks, you may want a corner of the living or dining area. Even installing sufficient outlets to a covered or screened deck can be a secondary work space as the weather allows.

Is Your Bedroom a Possibility?

Modern bedrooms can often accommodate desks, bookshelves, and other office essentials. This can be effective for parents who want to work at night. Make sure you have adequate outlets near your computer station and a place for document storage.

Do You Need Multiple Options?

While it is best to set a designated area for your work space, some people like to have multiple options. You may want to use a kitchen or dining room table in the morning to get your family off to school and work, and then move to a more convenient location for the rest of the day.

Do You Want to Write Your Office Space Off  Your Taxes?

If you work from home, and it is used as your main place of business, consult a tax professional. You may be able to deduct expenses for the business use of your home. If the use of your home office is merely appropriate and helpful, you cannot deduct expenses for that purpose.

Work and Play at Isla Del Sol Condominiums

With the spacious 3 bedroom and 2 bath units at Isla Del Sol Condominiums, you are sure to create an at-home office arrangement that works for you. When you are ready to finish for the day, step outside and enjoy all the amenities that the best condos at the Lake of the Ozarks have to offer, including panoramic views, a lake side pool, sun deck, and dog walking area.

Come back often to see all of the exciting things happening at Isla Del Sol.

Visit our website

Like Us on Facebook

Follow Us on Twitter

Follow Us on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

Follow Us on Google+ 

Don't Miss this Popular Spring Festival at the Lake of the Ozarks!

This year marks the 66th anniversary for the Dogwood Festival that takes place in Camdenton each year. This festival is loved by residents and visitors alike in the lake area. If you own a Isla Del Sol Condominium, we suggest getting out to one of the events during this three-day festival. It is only a short drive from your condo at the Lake of the Ozarks and features a carnival, a parade, and lots of food and craft booths. Here are the events you can expect at this year's festival:

Schedule of Events

Thursday, April 14th 

Photo: Camdenton Chamber

Carnival: 5 - 10 PM, Camdenton Middle School Parking Lot 

($20 wrist band 5 - 9 PM)

Friday, April 15th 

St. Anthony’s Church Garage Sale: 7 AM – 4 PM, N. Bus. Hwy 5 
Our Savior Lutheran Church Garage Sale: 8AM - 4PM, 442 E. Hwy 54 
Fine Art Display: 9 AM – 4 PM, First National Bank 
Knights of Columbus Fish Fry: 4 PM - 8 PM, 547 W. Hwy 54
(Adult $9 / Child 5-12 $4) 
Spaghetti Dinner: 5:30 PM, Melodrama: 7 PM, Camden County Museum ($15) 
Shoe Box Float Display: 5:30 PM, Middle School, S. Bus. Hwy 5 
DECA Craft Show: 5:30 – 8 PM, Middle School, S. Bus. Hwy 5
Food & Craft Booths: 5:30 – 9 PM, Middle School, S. Bus. Hwy 5
Baby Contest: 6:30 PM, Camdenton Middle School Little Theater
Carnival: 5 – 10 PM, Middle School Parking Lot 
($20 wrist band 5 - 9 PM) 
Live Entertainment LOZ Dance: 6 PM - 7 PM, Middle School Parking Lot
Live Band: 7 PM, Middle School Parking Lot

Saturday, April 16th 

Pancake Breakfast: 6:30 AM – 10 AM, United Methodist Church, W. Hwy 54

(Adult $6 / Child $3)

Fine Art Display: 9 AM – 3 PM, First National Bank

St. Anthony’s Church Garage Sale: 7 AM - 1 PM, N. Hwy 5

Our Savior Lutheran Church Garage Sale: 8 AM - Noon, E. Hwy 54

DECA Craft Show: 9 AM – 4 PM, Middle School

Food and Crafts: 10 AM – 6 PM, Middle School Parking Lot

Dogwood Festival Parade: 10 AM, Downtown Camdenton 

Young Eagles Flights: Noon – 3:30 PM, Camdenton Airport, S. Hwy 5 

Spaghetti Dinner: 5:30 PM, Melodrama, 7 PM, Camden County Museum ($15)

Carnival: 10 AM – 10 PM, Middle School Parking Lot

($20 wrist band 5 - 9 PM)

Live Music: Noon – 7:00 PM, Middle School Parking Lot

Noon - Xanadu Dance 

1:00 PM - Woodie & Cleda Cochran 

2:00 PM - Mitch Shields & Guest 

3:00 PM - Dog Contest (cutest,ugliest) 

4:30 PM - Iron Celtics Balloon Release 

5:00 PM - Britt Small

6:00 PM - The Ginnings 

Get Out and Enjoy the Dogwood Festival

Photo: Camdenton Chamber

Leave your island paradise at Isla Del Sol Condominiums for an afternoon and bring the family to one of the most popular spring events at the lake. This free festival features many local businesses, handmade goods, tasty treats, and other novelties. Whether you are looking to browse fine art or listen to live entertainment, you will be sure to find it at the Annual Dogwood Festival. The best part is your Lake of the Ozarks condo will be waiting when you return...

14 Tips to Make Your Condo Move Easy and Stress Free

Packing up all of your things and moving to a new Lake of the Ozarks condo may seem like an overwhelming task. Unless you are a minimalist, moving can take time and can be a considerable amount of work. However, by planning ahead and staying organized, you will be ready to enjoy your luxury condo at the Lake of the Ozarks in no time. And of course, it doesn't hurt to keep your end goal in mind. You will soon be sitting poolside at Isla Del Sol Condominiums. Here are some steps to get ahead and make your move as stress free as possible:

1. Get Organized Ahead of Time

Avoid waiting until the last minute. Create a list of items you need to get accomplished and order them week by week.If you have extra bedrooms and storage areas that are rarely used, this is a good place to start.

2. Plan Your Moving Strategy

Your moving strategy will depend on if you are moving across town or to another city or state. If you are just downsizing or moving to another neighborhood, you may be able to talk some of your friends and family into helping you move. If you are moving long distance, you will probably want to consider pricing out various moving companies and vehicles. In any case, know your plan ahead of time.


3. Get Rid of Your Unwanted Items

This is your chance to purge any items that you are no longer using. If you have enough time and the time of year permits, hold a garage sale. There are also many online websites you can sell your larger items, such as furniture. Local charity organizations will accept gently used clothing and other goods.

4. Put Together Packing Kits

Make a kit for each person packing. Include inventory sheets, a black marker, boxes, tape, and packing materials. Go room by room and have a system, to make unpacking easily done.

5. Reuse Boxes

Each time you go to the grocery store before move day, bring home a couple of boxes. Keep in mind, large boxes can get heavy when full and smaller boxes can be easier to carry up staircases and narrow hallways.

6. Take Inventory of Your Items

Keep track of everything that you pack, especially if you hire a moving company. Consider making a spreadsheet with all of the boxes and their contents. This will be useful if something goes missing. You can number each of the boxes and label them with the corresponding room.

7. Label Everything

If you have hired a moving company or even just recruited friends, it is important that they know what room each box belongs in. Be sure to label the box on all sides with a permanent marker. This way it can be visible in a stack of boxes.

8. Find Out Your Condo Rules

In most condos, you cannot just backup your truck to the front door and unload your belongings. If you are on an upper level unit, you may be dealing with stairs or putting items into the complex's elevator. Talk to the condo association beforehand about where you can park and if there is a service elevator.

9. Prepare a Moving Day Kit

Keep one box aside for the day of the move for "essentials". Pack cleaning supplies, light bulbs, toilet paper, garbage bags, your toiletries, and a change of clothes.

10. Schedule Deliveries After Moving Day

If you have purchased any new furniture for your condo, schedule delivery for after moving day. This will keep you focused on the task at hand and avoid congestion between movers and delivery people.


11. Hook Up Utilities and Other Services

Before you get settled in, find out how essential services (gas, electric, water, etc.) are supposed to be transferred from the previous owner to you. If necessary, have your Internet, cable, and phone line hooked up as well.



12. Find a Pet Sitter for the Day

If you have a pet that could get nervous about a move, arrange for them to stay somewhere for the day. If you have a long-distance move, make sure to have safe transport for your pet.

13. Greet Your Neighbors

Let your neighbors know what your up to by not only telling them what unit you will be living in, but what vehicles you are in for the day. Make sure moving trucks aren't blocking their exit.

14. Treat Your Movers

Last, but not least, be sure to acknowledge your friends and family that helped you move. Be prepared with food and drinks when everyone is ready to take a break!

Isla Del Sol Condominiums is a New Path to Discover

Moving can be an emotional time, but can easily be managed with some planning and organization. Isla Del Sol Condominiums is ready for you to discover your new private condominium paradise. Once you move into your waterfront condo at the Lake of the Ozarks we are sure you won't regret it!

Come back often to see all of the exciting things happening at Isla Del Sol.

Visit our website

Like Us on Facebook

Follow Us on Twitter

Follow Us on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

Follow Us on Google+ 

5 Clever Ways to Maximize Space in Your Condo

In every condo there is a need to maximize space, whether it is a studio or the whole top floor with 5 bedrooms. Maximizing space allows your house to seem more organized, spacious and welcoming. When looking for condos for sale at the Lake of the Ozarks or looking to maximize the space you already own, follow these tips to make the most of your condo.

1. Maximizing Your Entryway

 

As the first area that you welcome your guests into your condo, the entryway is often the most cluttered by shoes, coats and children's backpacks. Simple organization and a few additions can make a major difference between clutter and opening up your entryway. You can maximize space by adding a storage bench; this is a good place to store shoes and backpacks, as well as other things that need a place close to the door. Top that off with a wall mounted coat rack, a few shelves for pictures and a mirror for a great accented look. Now you have a beautiful entryway that reflects the open theme of your condo.

2. Opening Up Your Family Room and Living Room

Do you ever find yourself cleaning the family room and living room more often than most other rooms in the house? As a central hub of entertainment and relaxation for most families, it can be difficult at times to keep out the mess and clutter. When looking to maximize these areas, it is best to find multi-functioning furniture. Invest in a coffee table with bottom open shelving, and drawers for magazines and normal table clutter. T.V. stands with drawers and cabinets are great for storing movies and games in a neat way. Additionally, adding a few nice accent end tables with open sides or cabinet doors will give your living areas extra storage room, creating a beautiful spacious look.  

3. Bathroom Storage

The bathroom is probably the most rushed in and out of room in your home. This area is also typically one of the most cluttered rooms due to it's size and contents. For a bathroom, a little more organization can go a long way. Putting baskets under the sink and behind doors can be useful for storing small electrical appliances, such as electric razors and curling irons, when not in use. For more space options, buy a plastic shoe organizer, cut it into three or four sections and attach them on the inside of doors or inside sink cabinets. A ring holder with a round base that matches your bathroom is great for your hair ties and bobby pins. These tips will create a more open and uncluttered look and feel to the smallest room in your condo. 

4. Organize That Kitchen

Your kitchen can be one of the busiest rooms in your condo. The kitchen must be functional, easy to move around in and sanitary, as well as a pleasurable place to cook meals. Cabinets and shelving can be used up pretty quickly by dishes, pots and pans. Getting a good hanging rack for your pots and pans not only opens up space, but it gives your kitchen a look of a real cooking aficionado. Count how many people are in your home and have that many plates, bowls, cups and silverware; the rest can be stored in a box in a designated storage area out of the way until guests are expected. When it comes to canned food or cabinet food, try to think of it like your refrigerator, if it has a date and it is past that, throw it out to make room for something else. Lastly spread out appliances so that everything is not all together. This should give you a great spacious look that has way more functionality and is less cluttered.

5. Get the Most out of Your Bedroom

Your bedroom is your sanctuary, a place of comfort and relaxation where you can go to sleep and wake up everyday to a fresh start. Having a clean and spacious bedroom will maximize your relaxation and comfort in every bedroom in your condo. Having a few flat bins are great for storing out of season clothes under the bed, especially when first sealed with a clothing vac sealer. Utilizing closet organizers to separate clothing, shoes, ties, scarfs and more will yield more functionality to your closet. Get a nice stand up hamper with a lid that matches the theme of your bedroom. Be sure to go through your clothes seasonally to see if they are getting old and faded or aren't fitting right anymore. Take any clothes you don't want or cannot wear anymore, add the other clutter you've been cleaning out and start a yard sale. As an alternative, you can go down to your area's local goodwill and donate for a great cause. Now you can relax in a clean and organized room that matches the beautiful, spacious theme throughout your condo.

With these "5 Clever Ways to Maximize Space in Your Condo" you can get the most out of every inch of your beautiful condo. 

Isla Del Sol Condominiums is known as a private island paradise at the Lake. Exquisite amenities, such as a resort-style pool with splash fountains, boat and PWC slips, and a dog walking area, make this complex top notch. With these 5 simple ways to maximize space, you can enjoy every beautiful inch of your luxury condo. For more information on what these luxury condos at Lake of the Ozarks have to offer, contact (573) 552-8418.

Come back often to see all of the exciting things happening at Isla Del Sol.

Visit our website

Like Us on Facebook

Follow Us on Twitter

Follow Us on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

Follow Us on Google+ 

Brighten Up Your Balcony with a Container Garden

The weather is getting warmer and potted flowers and plants are most likely starting to spring up at your local home goods and home improvement stores. Finally, you can get outdoors and enjoy some fresh air. By living in a condo at the Lake of the Ozarks, you can use flowers and plants to instantly liven up your space, without having the regular upkeep of a lawn and garden. This is easy to achieve with a little planning with the use of containers. Each unit at Isla Del Sol Condominiums has a large covered balcony to create your own inviting outdoor area. Here are some helpful tips for starting a container garden:

Define Your Space

Decide how you will use your space and how much of the area will be used for your container garden. Consider furniture and ornamental items you may have to incorporate into the space. Define the purpose of the space and it will drive design and plant choices:

• Will you be entertaining friends or is this your personal oasis?
• Would you like to plant herbs to create an edible garden?
• Are you blocking out neighbors to create more privacy?
• Are there any obstructions, like air conditioners or gutters that cannot be blocked?
• Is there a size limitation to the area? 

Practical Considerations

Once you have defined the purpose of the space, you need to figure out the logistics. Determine how many containers, plants, furniture, and other ornaments you need and how to get them into your space. Think about the weight of the potted plants and flowers, the weather, and the climate in the space. Here are some questions to ask:

• Do you need permission from your Condo Owner's Association?
• Do you need a structural engineer to ensure the area can handle the weight of plants, containers, and furniture?
• Is the area windy?
• Are there areas in complete sunlight or in complete shade?
• How will heavy rain or wind impact the items in the space?

Choosing Your Containers 

Unlike gardening in soil, where weight and watering restrictions do not apply, weight is the biggest consideration, when planting in containers on a deck or balcony. Consider these options:

• Choose lighter containers such as fiberglass or plastic.
• Limit the number of containers you use.
• Consider how long it will take for soil to dry out using certain containers.
• Make sure there is a way for the water to drain out.
• Ensure the water will not drip on a neighbor's deck or balcony.
• Find a nearby water source or determine if you will be carrying water to the plants.

Choosing Your Plants

Planting flowers and plants in containers can create the same feeling as an in-ground garden, it just requires some planning. Large tropical plants can provide shade and privacy, while herbs, and fruit and vegetable bearing plants most certainly have a different purpose. Colorful flowers will brighten up your space and be a great compliment to any deck or balcony. Make sure to take into consideration expected growth, type of soil, water and sunlight requirements. With a little foresight, creating your own container garden can open up many possibilities.   

Plant Your Container Garden at Isla Del Sol Condominiums 

Isla Del Sol Condominiums is known as a private island paradise at the Lake. Exquisite amenities, such as a resort-style pool with splash fountains, boat and PWC slips, and a dog walking area, make this complex top notch. With a few simple steps, you can even bring the beauty of an in-ground garden to your balcony with little maintenance. For more information on what these luxury condos at Lake of the Ozarks have to offer, contact (573) 552-8418.

Come back often to see all of the exciting things happening at Isla Del Sol.

Visit our website

Like Us on Facebook

Follow Us on Twitter

Follow Us on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Our YouTube Channel

Follow Us on Google+