Home » Misc » Budget friendly backyard landscaping

Budget friendly backyard landscaping


Cheap landscaping ideas: 16 budget-friendly looks

Is your plot crying out for a makeover? These cheap landscaping ideas demonstrate how a fabulous new look needn't be expensive to achieve.

Perhaps your backyard boundaries need an update, or you fancy a smart new flower bed. Or maybe, a new seating zone for relaxing and entertaining in style is exactly what your plot needs. Whatever the case, many will be pleased to hear that there are plenty of landscaping ideas that won't cost the earth. Because let's face it – at first thought, a garden makeover can sound like an expensive ordeal. In fact, it often is, unless you've got a bit of know-how and creativity up your sleeve.

We've brought together some top landscaping solutions to demonstrate the fantastic features that can be achieved on a budget. Some are easy, whilst a couple are more suited to seasoned DIYers, but all of them will guarantee long-lasting style.

16 cheap landscaping ideas that will rejuvenate your plot

Whatever your garden's theme, our edit of cheap landscaping ideas is sure to get you inspired for an update.

1. Don't pay for a new patio

This vibrant rug from Audenza peps up a patio

(Image credit: Audenza)

Rather than paying for a new patio to be installed, simply disguise tired paving or decking with one of the best outdoor rugs. The majority are made from woven polypropylene and come in a whole host of different patterns and colors. 

Warm and comfy underfoot, they are the easiest and ideal way to bring pattern into your outside seating space and make a handy focal point to arrange furniture around, too. What's more, they are easy to look after, can be left outside during rain showers, and are quick to dry. 

Choose from monochrome geometrics, large-scale tropical motifs, or the very latest faded Persian-style rugs.

2. Lay a DIY path

Create a whimsical walkway

(Image credit: Future)

Quick and easy garden path ideas don't have to be expensive or arduous. From bark nuggets and slate chippings to gravel or pea shingle, there are a number of easy-lay options that are also practical underfoot and good-looking, too.  

You could simply lay them straight on the ground or onto a hard surface (think concrete hardstanding or an existing ugly paved area) and rake them level. But in most cases, it makes sense to put down landscape membrane first and then the aggregate on top. This will both stop the aggregate from being pushed down into the soil and prevent weeds from growing up within the path. 

One thrifty but attractive idea is to make a woodland-style log path. Made from cross-sections of sawn logs, it's natural paving at its best. Place the circular sections onto a firmed and leveled pathway and arrange them as stepping-stones. Fill any awkward gaps with smaller discs from younger branches and fine bark chippings.

3. Get existing shrubs in order

Clipped shrubs look gorgeous in these corten steel planters from ADEZZ

(Image credit: ADEZZ)

Bring fresh form and structure into your garden by reshaping large, unruly shrubs. It's quick and easy to do, and as long as you already have a pair of the best loppers or a hedge trimmer, it won't cost you. Plus, not only is it an opportunity to get creative – perhaps with some topiary – but it can also let more daylight filter in, encouraging other plants to grow. 

'The best species for shrub topiaries are evergreens with small, dense foliage, such as the boxwood, yew shrubs, and thuja conifers,' explains James Ramnought of Phostrogen .

Other reliable plants include shrubby honeysuckle or Hebe sutherlandii, as recommended by Guy Watts, founder of Architectural Plants . 'These both have a neat, compact, little leaf, which will give you crisp and defined lines when you clip them as a pillow or ball. They're also very dense plants, which provide additional definition if you want to define a specific space,' he adds. 'Very versatile, they also look fantastic clipped and planted in formal border patterns, rather like a parterre design.' There are lots more ideas for landscaping with shrubs in our dedicated feature.

Clip up to 4–6 times a year, during the warmer growing period, removing fresh new growth. Avoid cutting into old woody stems and feed regularly with liquid fertilizer.

4. Up the sensory appeal with a budget-friendly water feature

Use an old galvanized bucket for a water feature with plenty of rustic charm

(Image credit: Jason Smalley Photography/Alamy Stock Photo)

Adding a homemade water feature to your plot is an instant way to bring a whole new dimension to your outside space, and doesn't have to be expensive. Sun or moonlight reflecting off the still water will always be a mesmerizing sight.

Choose a shallow yet wide and open container. Yes, there are some gorgeous metal reflection bowls available, but a vintage enamel basin, plastic plant saucer, or even an upturned dustbin lid will do the job. Place on level ground or raise up on a simple brick or timber plinth, away from trees or shrubs. Fill to the brim, ideally with rainwater, and enjoy the reflection of scudding clouds overhead and visits from thirsty birds and wildlife.

5. Reshape your flower beds

A neat edge elevates this border

(Image credit: Ian Lamond/Alamy Stock Photo)

Just something as simple as redefining or altering the shape and size of your flower beds can hugely revitalize your garden. Costing nothing more than an hour or two of your time, and maybe a bag of compost, it's a great way to get creative and reimagine your space. 

Consider introducing some sweeping curves to introduce movement and drama into your plot, or a series of sharp geometric beds, set on an angle, for a more contemporary vibe. Whatever your design ambitions, a good quality, sharp edging tool is required for this job.

Rainer Schubert, managing director at Burgon & Ball , shares this advice: 'Different shapes of flower bed can dramatically alter the atmosphere of a garden. A straight edge creates a formal feel, whereas an irregular, drifting shape can feel much softer. You can also use shapes to create optical illusions: straight borders down either side of a garden can make it look smaller, whereas a sweeping curve can make it feel bigger than it actually is.

'When it comes to distance from front to back of the flower bed, the choice is yours. Ideally, you'd have a minimum depth of around a meter [3.3ft] to comfortably accommodate several different heights of plant for a full, rich look. 

'Always consider access,' he adds. 'If you want really deep flower beds – how will you get to the plants at the back?'

And once you've tidied up their shape, you could go one step further with your budgeting and fill them with free plants.

6. Divide your space into zones

Creating a smaller patio will save on costs

(Image credit: Richard Powers/Future)

'An affordable way to landscape your garden is to work your space into zones and then apply different techniques to each area,' says Charles Taylor, Director at Composite Prime .

So, when considering your new cheap landscaping ideas, think about the different areas you need for the activities you want to do. For instance, rather than paving a huge space (and splashing out on tons of pavers), plan a smaller patio area in one corner for your outdoor seating. The rest of the plot can be reserved for cheaper materials, such as lawn, bark chipping or gravel garden paths, or flower beds.

Similarly, a fancy privacy fence might look beautiful but could cost you a pretty penny if you use it around the entire perimeter of your plot. Instead, install it around the zones which will benefit most from the heightened look and sense of exclusivity. Then, for the remaining boundaries, opt for more affordable solutions such as some of the best hedging plants.

7. Create an industrial vibe with metal edging

Metal edging can be a good budget-friendly solution

(Image credit: Annette Lepple/Alamy Stock Photo)

'Metal edging can be a staple in the garden, especially when you have lots of plants or bedding where it can separate different areas,' says Paul McFadyen, Managing Director at metals4U . 'Its main usage is to prevent the migration of garden materials falling into garden beds, such as gravel or stone. Not only is it helpful, it's a great way to upscale your garden, creating an organized but beautiful layout without spending much money.

'Costs can start as cheap as £10 [the equivalent of around $13.75] for metal sheets and rods which can be used for metal edging, although it's important to understand what type of metals are best suited for metal edging and your styling preferences,' Paul adds. We particularly love the warm tones of Corten steel, which is incredibly durable and has been used to give these steps a striking look. Untreated steel may be cheaper but is prone to rust over time which leads to corrosion.

You can find more info on metal garden edging ideas in our guide.

8. Sow a lush lawn from seed

A verdant lawn isn't too tricky to achieve

(Image credit: Polly Eltes/Future)

If you love the idea of a lush lawn for summer picnics or for the kids to have a run around, then you're in luck. These favorite garden features are cheap and relatively easy to create. 

Whilst using rolls of turf may be quicker, it's definitely more expensive. So, if you've got a bit of patience, learning how to plant grass seed is the way forward. You'll need to prepare the ground first, removing any weeds or stones and leveling it out before recompacting it and raking the top. 

Don't forget you'll need to factor in the costs of a lawn mower, but there are plenty of budget versions available that will do the job just fine. Our buying guide to the best lawn mower is a good place to start your search.

If you already have a lawn but it's looking a little worse for wear, it's easy and inexpensive to learn how to repair lawn patches and get it back to looking its best.

Why not add a border of blooms for extra visual appeal? Although buying lots of plants at the garden center can be expensive, growing your own from seed, as with grass, is a much cheaper approach. You can also learn how to take cuttings from plants – that way you can have new ones for free.

9. Upcycle objects for new garden features

This stylish setup is full of upcycled materials

(Image credit: Leigh Clapp Photography/Future)

Head down to your local reclamation yard and you might be surprised at all the inexpensive treasure you find that has upcycling potential. This setup demonstrates lots of great ideas at play.

Corrugated metal sheets can be used for screening – embrace the raw industrial look or give them a makeover with a lick of exterior metal paint. And if you're keen on adding more sustainable garden features to your plot, a reclaimed barrel or two makes a statement water butt for recycling rainwater. We also like the DIY bench in this scene for a simple seating solution or platform for plants.

Keep an eye out for large containers that can be used for garden planters, too. In smaller plots these can be an important part of your layout as they can be positioned as garden dividers.

10. Use garden sleepers for raised beds, benches, and more

Sleepers are used to create a stylish seating and raised bed area in this setup from Jacksons Fencing

(Image credit: Jacksons Fencing)

'Timber sleepers provide a cost-effective way to create large, impressive raised beds, or clear cut edging to separate grass or patios from borders,' says the team at Jacksons Fencing . 'Use them to clearly define areas of your garden, create walkways, or fill them with an array of home-grown fruits and vegetables or your favorite florals, to help tie the rest of your garden together.' You could even use them to create a bench and raised bed in one, as demonstrated here.

If you really want to cut on costs, look for reclaimed ones, however be aware that some may have been treated with Creosote, which is now seen as a toxic health hazard. Jacksons Fencing advises to always opt for high-quality products though, that have been kiln-dried and pressure treated. They may be more expensive, but see it as an investment – not only will they reduce safety risks but they will last the test of time.

Our guide to garden sleeper ideas has lots of creative inspiration on ways to use them in your landscaping scheme.

11. Source reclaimed bricks for edges and patios

These red bricks create a pleasing pattern amongst the gravel

(Image credit: Tim Winter/Future)

Reclaimed bricks offer a vintage charm that's perfect for country-cottage gardens, and they're durable too. Often they can be found online – or ask around your local area – you might just pick up a bargain.

If you manage to get your hands on a large amount, you could use them to create an entire patio space. Alternatively, they're a smart garden edging idea for your borders or paths for an extra sense of definition. Combine with gravel – another budget-friendly material that also looks great and is good for soaking up rainwater, too.

12. Go for composite decking that will last

A sleek decked space by NeoTimber

(Image credit: NeoTimber)

'Carefully laid decking helps to create an increased sense of space by offering a dedicated area for entertaining and unwinding that can be utilized year-round,' says Charles Taylor, Director at Composite Prime. 'This can be achieved by adding levels to a sloping garden or elevating an area with raised decking.'

Now, decking might not be at the forefront of your mind when thinking of cheap landscaping ideas, and that's understandable – it might require a bit more budgeting. However, we've included it in our list because the best composite decking products will last such a long time that it's a definite worthwhile investment, saving you money in the long run. 

'It is understandable that people will look to minimize their budgets when doing up their garden, but we believe the cheapest way is not always the right option,' explains Toby Allen, Director at NeoTimber® . 'We feel it's more important to choose a cost-efficient material.' 

For instance, their composite decking has a 25-year warranty and never needs to be stained or painted. 'Unlike timber, which will likely need to be re-sealed every year and replaced after ten years, composite decking gives you a truly viable, cost-effective option which lasts for years,' the team adds. And nowadays, there's a wide range of products to suit various budgets.

13. Build your own garden structure for cool shade

A small wooden pergola is a great way to define a seating space and provide shade

(Image credit: Rory Buckland L/Alamy Stock Photo)

If you've been eyeing up our pergola ideas and would love one of your own, then it's totally doable – even if you're on a budget. Okay, you'll need some DIY skills to ensure it's constructed safely, but building your own can be a great way to spend a sunny weekend if you love an outdoor project. Plus, it's much cheaper than buying one that's ready-made.

Our guide on how to build a pergola features top advice on creating one from scratch. You can also buy flat-pack kits with instructions for assembly which vary in cost. 

Want to add a bit more character? Grab a pot of exterior wood paint in a color that complements your garden and give your new shade structure a couple of coats. Add some seating beneath and it'll be your new favorite feature in no time.

Today's best exterior paint deals

1 Amazon customer review

☆☆☆☆☆

£4.80

View Deal

£9. 32

View Deal

Low Stock

£12

View Deal

Show More Deals

14. Or, learn how to make a pond

Border your pond with stones for a natural look

(Image credit: Jumping Rocks/UIG/Getty Images)

Learning how to build a garden pond yourself is another outdoor project that's much more affordable than calling in the experts. All that digging can be a workout, but it's actually pretty straightforward, and can make a beautiful focal point for any backyard.

Line the edges with rocks and add aquatic plants to help it blend into its surroundings, whilst a small pump will offer a soothing sound and helps to keep the water oxygenated (and they don't cost much to buy or run).

15. Paint your boundaries rather than replacing them

These walls are painted in 'Knightsbridge 215' and 'Carmine 189' Intelligent Masonry Paints, both from Little Greene

(Image credit: Little Greene)

If your garden wall or fence is looking a little lackluster, then you might be tempted to rip the whole thing out. However, before you fork out on a brand new style, consider whether the existing design can be improved or repaired.

Maybe just one or two fence panels have rotted or broken, in which case you can just replace those (take a look at our guide on how to install fence panels for advice). And sometimes, a good clean and a lick of fresh paint can do wonders at brightening up the dullest of walls. 

There's a huge spectrum of exterior paint colors available these days, from soft blues, deep ochre and warming terracotta to on-trend charcoal or gray. To make a real style statement, paint your raised beds in a complementary hue, like in this smart example above.

16. Or, go for stylish bamboo screening

This bamboo slat fence is available from Thompson & Morgan

(Image credit: Thompson & Morgan)

If your boundaries are beyond repair, another cheap fence idea is to use rolls of bamboo screening. As the team at Thompson & Morgan say, they're a 'quick and easy way to cover unsightly areas or create a stylish backdrop for plants,' and if you use them for your landscaping for the front of your house there's 'instant kerb appeal guaranteed. '

If you would like a more botanical feel, the team suggest planting black bamboo for a tropical-like screen with a contemporary edge. 'Quick and easy to grow, this non-invasive variety delivers real impact, making it a garden designer favorite.'

More top cheap landscaping ideas

Interior influencer Laura Higham of @The_Indigo_House  recently transformed her own backyard into a show-stopping space on a budget (see the image below). She shares some of the top tips and cheap landscaping ideas that she used.

Consider which work you can DIY, she suggests. As the average cost for a garden overhaul can start from as high as £5,000 (according to Checkatrade , or the equivalent of $6,897) it's wise to sit down and decide what elements of the work you can take on yourself. This will save you money to splurge on statement items for your social space, such as a lovely new outdoor sofa. For Laura's backyard, 'when it came to the work, we did a lot of it ourselves, from cutting down small trees to taking up the old patio and digging out the beds surrounding it. ' This allowed her to keep down costs and invest her money elsewhere.

We love the results of this backyard makeover by The Indigo House , featuring furniture from Luxury Rattan

(Image credit: The Indigo House)

You can also take on the task of planning your landscaping makeover yourself, saving the costs of hiring a professional to do it for you. Laura says, 'we very much planned the space ourselves and I found my inspiration through Pinterest, Instagram and even visiting National Trust gardens. This helped us build a solid framework of our concept.' You can find lots of useful suggestions to get you started in our guide on how to plan your garden design.

Laura also suggests sourcing secondhand objects where possible. This will result in a relaxed and laid-back feel (whilst stretching your budget further). She suggests trying antique stores, eBay, or vintage sellers on Instagram.

Other features in her refreshed plot include a newly-painted fence in an on-trend hue, and inexpensive-yet-smart raised beds. And by now, hopefully you'll be full of inspiration to create something just as beautiful in your own backyard.

20 Cheap Landscaping Ideas to Improve Your Yard

You don’t have to spend all your green for better curb appeal. Beautiful landscapes may look expensive, but an eye-popping yard can be budget-friendly, too.

Recycle an old watering can, lay down free mulch, hang some string lights and you can create a charming, cozy yard at little to no cost. If you’re crafty and good with tools, you’ll whiz through cheap DIY projects.

These 20 cheap landscaping ideas will inspire you. So, don’t raid your savings account, but do grab your sun hat, slip on those garden boots, and get started improving your yard’s look and feel.

20 Cheap Landscaping Ideas

1. Add a walkway

Nancy Buron, Pixabay

Stepping stones or pavers make excellent budget-friendly walkways. They draw the eyes to areas of the yard you wish to show off, and they invite your visitors to do a little exploring. Pathways also help keep people from walking on the grass and provide a sense of direction from one part of the yard to another.

Spruce your stones up with soft moss or plants, and you’ll have yourself an affordable, elegant walkway.

Cost: Pavers and stepping stones typically range from $1 to $15 each, and they can be bought at your local home improvement store.

2. Save with perennials

Coreopsis / JamesDeMers / Pixabay

Plant perennials, which return with color every growing season. This saves you money and gardening time because you won’t be buying and planting new annuals every year.

Examples of perennials include tulips, asters, hostas, daylilies, hydrangeas, lavender and coneflowers.

While perennials may have a higher initial cost than annuals, perennials will save you more green in the long run.

Cost: $10 to $30 (or more) for a perennial plant.

3. Spread some mulch

F. D. Richards, CC BY-SA 2.0

Mulch is just what you need to make your flower beds pop. It adds a textured ground cover to your flower beds and helps keep out those pesky weeds that keep stealing the show.

Mulch also helps lock in moisture, and organic mulches can add nutrients back into the soil to enhance plant health. This budget-friendly landscaping project will not only help your plants grow but also make your flowers a stunning attraction.

Cost: Free mulch — wood chips, grass clippings, leaves, compost, pine needles, and straw — can be found in your neighborhood. Or you could buy your mulch. Mulch for an average-sized garden (500 square feet) will cost around $175 with most homeowners spending between $100 and $300. But for a cheap landscaping idea you can’t beat free.

4. Plant flowers around your mailbox

Mohan Nannapaneni, Pixabay

When you’re giving directions to your home, wouldn’t it feel good to say, “Mine is the one with the pretty mailbox.” No one will be able to miss your driveway when you surround your mailbox with a flower bed or a small trellis with self-climbers like hydrangeas or roses.

Cost: One perennial plant from a nursery typically will cost between $10 and $30.

5. Plant a tree sapling

Pixabay, Pexels

If you like saving your green, plant a small sapling and you may see your tree increase your home’s value when it comes time to sell.

Saplings, strategically placed, can grow into giant trees that can help reduce home energy costs. Deciduous trees may provide enough shade over your home to reduce air conditioning costs, while evergreens may lower heat costs by blocking cold winter winds.

Cost: 50 cents to $1.50 per sapling. Planting a small or medium tree may cost between $100 and $200, while a large tree may run you into the thousands.

6. Raise your garden bed

Counselling, Needpix

A raised garden keeps nuisance weeds at bay, prevents soil compaction, provides excellent drainage, and protects your plants from pests. Raised flower or vegetable beds also add an aesthetically pleasing value to your garden.

A raised garden bed can be made with many materials, including wood, cinder block, or brick.

Cost: Check out how you can make a simple DIY raised garden bed with just $35.

7. Repurpose items as planters

Hmauck, Pixabay

Repurpose that old barrel, tub, piano, or wheelbarrow into an eye-catching focal point full of plants. You’ll get in A+ in recycling and likely have a one-of-a-kind creation in your front yard.

Don’t repurpose an old toilet into a planter, though. That’s not going to get the kind of attention you want from friends, family and neighbors.

Cost: Since you’ll be building a flower bed inside of an item you already have, you’ll only need to buy flowers, which may run you $10 to $30 per plant.

8. Landscape with lighting

Vitaly Vlasov, Pexels

Outdoor string lights can transform your entire yard into an enchanted space after the sun goes down.

Never had dinner outside because it was always too dark? Well, hang luminescent string lights around your backyard dining area, and you’ll have both a gorgeous evening landscape and a delicious meal.

Cost: Outdoor string lights may cost you between $15 and $50. Or head to a dollar store, outlet store like Big Lots or Ollie’s, or even the seasonal aisle of your grocery store for cheaper prices on outdoor string lights.

9. Hang some window boxes

W.carter, Public Domain

Are your front windows looking a little tired? Install window boxes to add instant charm and color to your front lawn while also covering up any wear and tear. Window boxes are simple, beautiful, and can be a great DIY landscaping project.

Window boxes also give you an exceptional view of your favorite flower right from inside.

Cost: A window box is the perfect DIY project if you’ve got wood lumber, screws, and brackets lying around in the garage. Otherwise, an 8-foot piece of wood lumber may cost you between $5 and $20. Keep in mind that plants typically cost between $10 and $30 each.

If you’d prefer to buy a window box instead of build one, window boxes cost between $15 and $100 depending on the style and quality.

10. Use edging to add some order

vasev_artem, Needpix

If you want to landscape with a budget, sometimes the best money-saving technique is to enhance what you already have.

Is your favorite tree looking a little forgotten, or is the mulch in your flower beds getting all over the lawn? Consider giving your trees, shrubs, and flower beds a makeover with some edging. Edging helps to keep your mulch in place, prevent erosion, and make your landscape stand out.

Edging materials include stone, concrete, brick, wood, metal, logs, and recyclable items.

Cost: Landscape curbing installation, or edging, can cost between $70 and $1,700. But to keep that piggy bank on the shelf, spare stones on your lawn or extra wood from the tool shed can make excellent materials for your flower bed’s edging.

11. Grow an edible garden

Michael, Pexels

An edible garden can cut your grocery bill because you will be eating what you grow instead of buying those fruits and vegetables in store. While a cost-effective garden may take time and energy to maintain, a good harvest will have you reaping the rewards.

Cost: You can buy your garden’s seeds for as little as $2 a pack. Establishment costs will vary depending on the garden’s size, whether you decide to install a fence, and whether you choose to build a raised garden bed. Keep in mind that while you may have to pay upfront to establish your garden, it will begin to pay for itself as you grow your fruits and vegetables.

12. Add texture with beach pebbles

Dominika Roseclay, Pexels

You’ll love your rock garden of pebbles when you see how much they can do and how little they cost. Fill in the crevices between your flagstones with these pebbles (or pea gravel) to give your stone walkway some charm.

Want to make your favorite stones and plants shine in your rock garden? Lay down some landscape fabric and some pretty pebbles, and your rock garden will have a whole new look.

You can also use small pebbles to create an elegant garden path. Just remember to grab some edging to keep those stones in place.

Cost: Beach pebbles cost approximately $1 per pound.

13. Show off your landscape with outdoor dining

llensgraf, Needpix

Sometimes all you need to make a budget-friendly landscape look its best is a dining area on the backyard patio. After all, it brings all your favorite people outside, and you can’t put a price on that. So enjoy a great meal, share some laughs, and enjoy the view.

Cost: You can buy outdoor patio furniture sets with a table and chairs for as little as $150-$200

14. Rock your rock garden

Pxfuel

A rock garden, also known as a rockery or alpine garden, accentuates various stones, boulders, and pebbles. Small, big, gray, or brown, your rock garden will highlight many shapes, sizes, and color palettes.

Rock gardens help to diversify your yard and create an appealing contrast from the greenery. These gardens are drought-tolerant and low-maintenance, so you won’t have to spend lots of money on their care.

Cost: Landscaping rock projects cost an average of $600 to $700. Homeowners may pay between $460 and $1,000 to buy and install rocks, stones, and boulders.

But there are plenty of ways to find free rocks for your rock garden and avoid writing that check.

Large boulders on farms and construction sites are typically a nuisance. Consider asking a farmer or construction worker if they have any rocks they plan to throw away. You may happen to find yourself coming home with a giant, new rock.

Hunting in your yard for small stones is also an excellent way to collect some of your favorites.

15. Cool off in an above-ground pool

Zachtleven fotografie / Pixabay

The kids want a pool, but you don’t want to break your budget, especially when you know no one will likely use the pool after the kids grow up. For a short-term solution that protects your budget and keeps the kids — and you — happy, consider installing an above-ground pool.

While you may need the checkbook for this one, an above-ground pool won’t cost you as much as an in-ground pool, and it will provide plenty of year-round fun.

Cost: In-ground pools typically cost between $20,000 and $65,000. An above-ground pool is much cheaper, typically costing between $730 and $4,200 depending on your budget and the quality of pool you buy. Unlike in-ground pools, which can last for decades, an above-ground pool, if properly maintained, may last between seven and 15 years.

16. Grow up with a vertical garden

SirGreen, Needpix

If you’re working with a budget and a small backyard, consider a vertical garden. This cheap landscape design will have you picking greens, saving greens, and growing a green thumb. These small gardens will help conserve space and make a fun, creative DIY project.

Plants that are great for vertical gardens include hostas, succulents, ferns, bromeliads, onions, garlic, tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers.

Cost: Costs will vary depending on your DIY vertical garden’s design and whether you have the supplies already sitting in your garage or tool shed. You also will have buy the plants or seeds for your vertical garden.

17. Sit a spell on a bench

Tom Swinnen, Pexels

A simple park bench can turn your yard into a space for reflective thought and quiet moments. Enjoy an afternoon tea with a friend, or sit alone and meditate amid the beauty of your yard. Don’t forget to decorate your new favorite spot with pillows, flower pots, or stepping stones.

Cost: An affordable bench may cost you between $100 and $200.

18. Light the way with lanterns

Goran Horvat, Pixabay

Your curb appeal needn’t disappear after that sun goes down. Install a few lamps around the yard, and you’ll add instant charm.

You can use lamps to provide light to your outdoor spaces, such as around the dining area or your reading bench. Lamps also can help guide you along a safe path, like to the front door or the garden, while also providing you with a sense of security.

Cost: Lamps are typically sold in bundles. A bundle of six or 10 lamps may cost you between $20 and $100.

19. Invite the neighbors with a birdbath

Jill Wellington, Pixabay

A birdbath can make a beautiful focal point while also inviting nature’s guests to your lawn. Enjoy watching the birds rinse their feathers and listening to their beautiful songs.

You won’t have to spend much time installing or maintaining this landscape feature to appreciate the beauty it brings to your lawn.

Cost: A low-cost birdbath will typically run you between $30 and $50.

20. Repurpose old watering cans

Susanne Jutzeler, suju-foto / Pixabay

Before throwing away those old watering cans, save them for your landscape. They can make beautiful flower pots and will give your lawn a cozy aesthetic. Fill them with flowers, then place them on your front porch steps or in the garden.

Your spruced-up watering cans will have a gorgeous effect, and you’ll be glad you managed to recycle them.

Cost: The flowers will be your only buy here, costing between $10 and $30 per plant. Your old watering can shouldn’t cost you a cent.

When to Call a Landscaping Professional

Without proper planning, DIY projects may lead to costly mistakes, resulting in more money spent than had you hired a professional. Many landscaping professionals market themselves as budget-friendly and are happy to help you not break the bank.

Call a landscaping professional near you if you’re interested in knowing all your options and possibly further design ideas. You may find that working with a professional landscaper makes your landscaping project stress-free and leaves you with a result you couldn’t have made yourself.

Main image credit: coneflowers / Joseph Yu / Pexels

Jane Purnell

Jane Purnell is a freelance writer and actor in New York City. She earned her B.A. from the University of Virginia and enjoys a warm cup of French press coffee.

Posts by Jane Purnell

Do-it-yourself landscaping of the territory of a private house

Landscaping of the territory of a private house is a process no less complex, creative and time-consuming than decorating a home interior. Everyone dreams of a beautifully designed garden or backyard. But not everyone can hire a landscape designer who will design everything. If you don’t have such an opportunity, but you really want to create a luxurious landscape design, then our review will help you with this. In the article you will find practical recommendations and simple solutions on how to improve the local area with your own hands and without big financial expenses.

A well-planned design of the courtyard area will allow you to create a whole plantation for recreation on a private plot

Contents of the article

Landscape design of a private house courtyard: planning principles

If you decide to create a landscape design with your own hands, then, first of all, you will need suitable projects . Before purchasing seedlings and certain materials, you need to make a clear plan on how to arrange all the elements of landscape design in the local area. You can see the simplest ideas in the photo. You can also see how to make a simple yard design project in the video below:


Watch this video on YouTube

Before you start planning, see what beautiful estates look like, as well as design options for a small yard. You can create a beautiful landscape on your own from improvised means.

Even a small yard can be decorated in a beautiful and original way.

The landscape of a private house requires a specific plan, on which it should be noted:

A detailed plan takes into account all the elements on the site

For your information! The marking of the territory must be carried out after careful preparation. A detailed plan will not only allow you to think through everything well, but also help save money.

Landscaping

When deciding how to plan your yard, first of all, start from the house and its corresponding style. You can not allow an excess of decor in the local area. The plan for the improvement of the territory involves the division of the site into separate zones.

The recreation area and playground deserve special attention. If there is not enough space in the yard, then perhaps some zones can be combined. Bushes, hedges, and perennials can be used to limit individual areas.

A recreation area and a playground for children are located nearby

If the layout is done correctly, then even in a small area you can place all the necessary objects.

The layout of the yard is carried out taking into account the following factors:

With a well-thought-out layout, all elements of the courtyard design can be compactly placed. Zoning a personal plot in a village or in another area involves dividing it into the following parts:

Compact placement of buildings in the yard

The layout of the yard area should be carried out taking into account the level of the ground. In some cases, it may be necessary to create a blind area, drain or soil filling. To strengthen the slopes, slopes, terraces and stairs are needed.

Landscape design also involves respect for cardinal points. Experts recommend that large trees and houses be located on the north side so that the shadow from them does not cover green spaces. Planning a site near the house involves placing a recreation area inside the territory in order to protect it from prying eyes and noise.

Delimitation of the residential area and green spaces

When planning a village house and yard, you need to think about the garden area. Shrubs, beds and fruit trees must be distributed so that all crops have enough light and space. Landscaping plan can be done with your own hands. For this zone, the sunniest place in the garden is selected.

Fruit trees need to be properly combined with the rest of the vegetation

The resting place for a country house does not have to be located in one place. Individual sites can be found throughout the territory. Landscaping includes decorative elements such as gazebos, flower beds, flower beds near the house and small ponds.

In the photo you can see great ideas for a private house, as well as for plots in the village.

Sidewalk paths, platforms and fences in the yard of a private house: photo ideas

Landscaping always includes activities such as laying paths, installing fences, and installing playgrounds and playgrounds. When deciding how to lay out the paths, consider different options.

Beautifully designed paths can be the main element of landscape design

Some patio cover can be laid out by hand and very inexpensively. At the entrance, paving stones, hewn stone paving or tiles will look great. To make beautiful path fences near the house, you can use low plants.

Original paving stones

When deciding how to cover the yard, consider original solutions. For example, a great path design will come from saw cuts. In this case, the free spaces between them can be covered with sawdust or bark. You can also use narrow boards for the yard. They need to be tightly fitted to each other, and then painted or varnished.

You can see the different design of paving stones, as well as interesting solutions, how to pave the paths worth looking at the photo.

Yard path can be classified depending on the material used:

Combination of the path with other design attributes Non-traditional solution Sturdy brick path Original path

A variety of landscaping can be used to visually delineate the adjacent territory. For example, you can use small fences in the design of the yard of perennials, annual flowers and dense bushes. To surround a sports ground or recreation area, a squat picket fence is suitable.

Small fence for fencing the recreation area

You can look at the photo of the design of the fence of a private house. A beautiful addition to such mini fences can be arches or pergolas for paths. In this case, you get a luxurious covered fence in a private house. Climbing morning glory, clematis and roses are used for designs.

A similar arch can be decorated with climbing plants

For your information! Frames with slats or boards made of perforated wood look original. You can make partitions from rattan, wicker and bamboo.

Landscaping and landscaping

After planning and marking the site, the question arises of how to plant trees and shrubs in the yard. Before planting something, it is also necessary to complete a project for green spaces. Landscape gardening necessarily includes planting bushes and trees. They will help make the house design more diverse. In addition, they will protect individual areas from the sun and wind.

Variant of landscape gardening with division into zones

When designing a small area near the house, you need to give preference to crops that bloom continuously. For the yard you can use the lawns. It is important to bear in mind that such areas also require maintenance. Plants need to be trimmed and watered.

Landscaping involves the use of various flower beds and beds. For a closed courtyard, a flowerpot is a good solution. They can accommodate exotic crops, such as cypress, pomegranate or lemon.

All kinds of flower beds are the main element of landscaping

You can create magnificent vertical gardening with your own hands. Such decorative elements will help create relief and volume for the garden. Arbors, fences and tree trunks can serve as supporting elements.

Various examples of the improvement of a private house and territory can be seen in the photo. Also, when creating landscape design, lighting activities are carried out. You can highlight ponds, plants, sculptures and paths. To illuminate the area, you can use lanterns on poles. Fountains and sculptures can be installed in open areas. Along the perimeter of the reservoir you need to plant plants that love moisture. This is a swamp iris, reed or mint. When landscaping the territory, it is also necessary to comply with GOST.

1 of 6

Flower beds in the yard of a private house: photo of original compositions Even with limited space, you can find a place for luxurious plants. At the same time, you should know how to plant flowers beautifully in the yard.

When deciding how to equip the areas of the local area with your own hands, first decide on the existing types of flower beds:

Regular Irregular flower bed Vertical construction Floral border Alpine slide with fountain

If you don't know what to plant and what flowers to use, look at the different options in the photo. Perhaps some idea will appeal to you.

Article on the topic:

Flower beds and flower beds with your own hands from improvised materials. If you do not want to spend a lot of money on the improvement of your territory, then a wonderful solution for you is to create original flower beds and flower beds on your own. We will teach this in our article.

Beautiful gardens and courtyards: photo projects

If you have not yet decided how to equip a beautiful area and garden design for private homes, then make a carefully thought-out plan. First of all, highlight areas such as recreation, garden and farm.

The landscaping of the garden and vegetable garden involves the decoration of garden elements. It is worth using the following options:

Beautiful stone garden

You can also use useful elements, such as a birdhouse. This element can perform both decorative and practical functions.

Garden design is, first of all, dividing into functional areas with your own hands. In one part there may be a playground, in the other a garden house or a gazebo, nearby you can place flower beds in the garden of a private house, photos of which are presented on the site. If there is very little space, then connect several zones. To do this, you can use special furniture for the yard and garden.

Luxurious garden with gazebo

Elements such as arches and screens can be used to divide a private courtyard and garden into separate areas.

Beautiful private gardens can be seen in the photo. Fruit trees, manicured lawns, and a variety of flower beds are complemented by various statues and pieces of furniture. Many decorative elements can be done independently. You can also peep beautiful landscape design ideas on a photo of a garden on a private plot.

Original Russian style garden

Outbuildings in a private house: photos of beautiful structures

When planning, the most important stage is the house and yard with outbuildings. Many yard elements can be made by hand. Without them, landscape design will not have a complete look.

Let's look at what kind of buildings in the yard can be used:

Comfortable area with fireplace Original white gazebo Sauna in the garden Variant of a functional platform

Arbors in the courtyard of a private house: photo options

An arbor is one of the important elements of landscaping the yard in a private house. It can be made by hand. Arbors can be closed, open or attached to the house.

If price matters, the polycarbonate option is worth choosing. A similar structure is located in the depths of the garden so that there is less noise. The design of the yard of a private house with a gazebo is popular, as it can provide another comfortable place to relax.

You can consider the following options for gazebos:

Open structure Japanese-style enclosed building

How to equip the gazebo inside depends on its configuration and design features. If the building is equipped with a hearth, then you can also build a dining area.

Related article:

Simple and beautiful: photo of your dream gazebo. To build a structure, you need to carefully consider every nuance, carefully select the material, and take into account the peculiarities of the landscape of the site. How to do this is described in detail in the material.

Gate to the courtyard of a private house

Functional, durable and beautiful fencing is of great importance for any site. In the photo you can see different options for such structures.

The following fencing options are used for the gates of a private house or estate:

Beautiful gates can be made from different materials

Swimming pool in the courtyard of a private house: photos of constructions

An important attribute of landscape design are all kinds of ponds, ponds, fountains and pools. For the design of a Japanese garden, such an element is a necessity.

Pool for summer cottage

You can make a good pond with your own hands. For him, the excavated pit must be laid out with a PVC film. To create a natural look, its banks are lined with pebbles or natural stone. Crops that prefer moisture can be planted nearby.

Fountains or waterfalls can become a beautiful addition to alpine slides and flower beds. Reservoirs are excellent for arranging recreation areas, as they contribute to relaxation.

An original pond for a summer residence

Do-it-yourself design of the courtyard of a private house: photos of the best ideas

There are a large number of ideas on how to design the courtyard of a private house. You can find the right option even with a limited budget. Even from a small area you can create a beautiful and functional corner for relaxation.

When deciding how to improve your yard, don't forget the following points:

Fountain decor

It is not necessary to look for complex projects to decorate and decorate the area near the house. The first stage of work consists of creating a simple sketch. You can take a sheet of paper and draw all the necessary elements. When zoning a country house, you need to choose a recreation area. At the same time, design ideas can be very different. For example, you can install wicker furniture and wooden benches in the yard. Also, do not forget about the installation of sheds in the yard. Under them, you can hide a picnic area or some kind of household equipment.

Decor for a flower bed

The design of the adjacent territory of a private house implies a convenient arrangement of paths. When deciding how to ennoble the main part of the yard, use grass. It can be planted in a variety of ways. For example, apply a special sowing grass for lawns or spread a ready-made rolled lawn on the site. The first option requires special care. And when using the second option, you need to clear, mark, as well as improve the adjoining or village yard. It is necessary to remove old trees and uproot stumps. The condition of the soil matters, if it is clayey, then you need to add gravel and sand. After installing the rolled lawn, it needs to be watered for the first week.

Composition of figurines

Then you should think about how to decorate summer cottages and rural yards. In this case, you can use details such as forged or wooden benches, original flower beds from improvised items, and also decorate the yard with beautiful figurines. Unusual vases can be made from boards, logs or hanging compositions.

Landscaping of modern yards requires special knowledge about plants that are planted in flower beds and flower beds.

Unusual ideas, beautiful design and different decor of the yard you can see in the video below:


Watch this video on YouTube

Before you decorate your yard with different crops, find out how much moisture the plants need, how they take root with other crops, as well as when they start to bloom and how long this process takes.

Learn more