As May arrives in New Jersey, the countdown to Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer, begins. For homeowners across Bergen and Passaic counties, this month is all about transitioning from spring cleanup to summer entertaining. With 76% of Americans planning to host outdoor dinner parties or cookouts this year, your backyard is about to become the most important room in your house.
However, a truly spectacular outdoor living space requires more than just wiping down the patio furniture. To create an inviting, comfortable, and beautiful environment that lasts from the first Memorial Day barbecue to the final Labor Day sunset, you need to focus on two critical elements: landscape lighting and smart irrigation.
At Greg Tanzer Sprinklers we’ve spent over 40 years helping New Jersey homeowners perfect their properties. Here is your essential May checklist to ensure your backyard is fully prepped for the 2026 summer season.
1. Elevate Your Entertaining with Landscape Lighting
Outdoor summer entertaining has evolved. The trend for 2026 is moving away from a simple grill in the corner toward creating elevated, “al fresco” ambiances with cozy lounge zones and seamless indoor-outdoor flow. The secret to achieving this upscale atmosphere is professional landscape lighting.
If you rely on a single harsh floodlight attached to your back door, you are missing out on the magic of summer nights.
The 2026 Lighting Trends You Need to Know
| Lighting Trend | How It Enhances Your Backyard |
|---|---|
| Smart Integration | Control your entire lighting system from your smartphone. Set scenes for dining, swimming, or relaxing, and automate lighting based on sunset. |
| Tunable White & RGBW | Shift from warm ambient tones to bright white for security, or use color-changing LEDs for special occasions. |
| Invisible “In-Grade” Lighting | Embed LED strips into steps, walls, and outdoor kitchens for a modern glow effect. |
| Moonlighting | Install fixtures in trees to cast natural, soft shadows that mimic moonlight. |
The ROI of Lighting: Beyond aesthetics, professional outdoor lighting is a smart financial move. Well-designed exterior lighting can add up to 20% to a home’s perceived value at night.
May Action Item: Schedule a consultation or inspection to ensure your system is working properly, including checking bulbs, wiring, and fixture alignment.
2. Perfect Your Lawn with Smart Irrigation
A lush, green lawn is the canvas for your summer entertaining. As drought conditions continue in 2026, responsible watering is essential to avoid waste and maintain a healthy yard.
The May Irrigation Checklist
- Schedule Your Spring Activation: Ensure your system is professionally started to prevent pipe damage.
- Audit for Coverage and Leaks: Check sprinkler heads and ensure proper coverage without waste.
- Upgrade to a Smart Controller: Use weather-based systems to save water and improve efficiency.
- Adjust for the Season: Set watering schedules appropriate for spring conditions.
3. Don’t Forget the Commercial Spaces
For commercial properties, HOAs, and retail spaces, maintaining efficient irrigation and proper lighting is critical. It enhances safety, improves appearance, and supports increased summer foot traffic.
Make This Summer Unforgettable
Your backyard should be a sanctuary, not a source of stress. By addressing lighting and irrigation in May, you ensure a summer of effortless entertaining, lower water bills, and excellent curb appeal.
Don’t wait until Memorial Day week when schedules are booked solid!
Contact Greg Tanzer Sprinklers today to schedule your lighting consultation or sprinkler system activation.
Call: (888) 237-6252
Request a free estimate online to get started!