Q: I have a large covered porch and would like to decorate it. Any suggestions for outdoor fabrics and rugs?
A: We've come a long way from stiff vinyl cushions that cracked and faded in the sun and perpetually damp rugs that often smelled of mildew. Today's outdoor textiles have a softer hand and resist the growth of icky microorganisms. The company Sunbrella, a leader in this world, introduced its first awning fabric in 1961, adding marine canvas in the 1970s and outdoor furniture fabric in the 1980s. All are composed of an acrylic that is dyed before the material is extruded as thread, making it fade-resistant. Other companies use Sunbrella's threads to make their own versions: Knoll offers solids, florals, geometrics and textured weaves. For sun-loving stripes with a Riviera feeling, look to Les Toiles du Soleil, a French company that also produces table linens and pillows.
Outdoor rugs come in two varieties: those that can be hosed off and left to dry in the sun and those that can be thrown into the washing machine.
The machine version has limits, of course — you can't stuff a 9-by-12-foot rug into a typical family top loader. But if you have access to a large front loader at a nearby laundromat, these rugs come in fantastic patterns and often feel and look like indoor rugs. Check out the offerings of Ruggable (especially the Persian and bohemian categories) and Fab Habitat (made from recycled materials).
The hose-off category includes Greek Islands-inspired Santorini from Serena & Lily, which starts at $1,278. Annie Selke carries dozens of patterns, from sober neutrals to giddy geometrics. And one of my favorite home furnishings stores, CSAO in Paris, offers recycled plastic rugs from Senegal in lots of jubilant colors.
Now all you need is a pastis, some Bain de Soleil and Salvador Dali to come over.
Q: I like the way bamboo looks and want to plant some in my backyard but have heard it's very invasive. True?
A: Bamboo creates a lovely, dense barrier wall with a tropical feeling, plus it holds a Guinness World Record for the fastest-growing plant. And therein lies the problem, though not with every species. There are two basic types of bamboo: running and clumping. Running bamboo can grow explosively, spreading and choking other plants. (Both varieties of invasive bamboo that are banned by New York state — golden and yellow groove — are running.) By contrast, clumping bamboo tends to stick to a contained area.
