Easy garden ideas on a budget


22 Cheap Garden Ideas - Best Garden Ideas On A Budget

Looking for some cheap garden ideas? It's easier than you think to give your garden a budget-friendly makeover. We've listed some quick fixes to help you save cash whilst making your outdoor space look fantastic, which in turn will enable you to spend more time enjoying your outdoor sanctuary.

Whether it's painting an old shelf, getting clever with how and what you plant, or repurposing old items, take a look at how you can save money without scrimping on style.

So, are you ready to give your garden a new lease of life? Try these easy garden ideas on a budget, perfect for patio areas, small gardens, or outdoor spaces of every shape and size...

1

Paint effect

-Getty Images

You'll be surprised by how much a lick of paint can transform an old fence and provide a striking backdrop for greenery and jewel-coloured plants. And the colour you should opt for? For a dramatic look, choose black.

'The depth this colour gives is magical for garden designers; paint a fence black and it disappears, a shed becomes less of an eyesore and that old bench suddenly becomes a chic focal point,' says Chelsea Flower Show garden designer Andrew Duff.

This is a great garden idea if you want instant impact. Don't forget, you can give your plant pots a new lease of life by painting them too.

• Head to Homebase, Wickes or B&Q for garden paint.

READ MORE: Garden paint: A guide to transforming exterior walls

2

Grow from seed

Homebase

Without a doubt, the cheapest way to get a thriving garden is to sow seeds. Whether it's flower seeds or vegetable seeds, remember to check the seed packet size, as some contain far more seed than you’d be able to sow in a year in the average garden.

Pictured: House Beautiful Cornflower Midget Mixed Seeds at Homebase

3

Plant and divide

AlpamayoPhotoGetty Images

A cost effective way to fill flowerbeds with great looking plants is to buy perennials that you can divide. This may sound like advanced level gardening but really it isn't. It will work with clump-forming perennials such as geums, astrantia and hardy geraniums.

Simply tip the plant out of its pot and pull it apart into two or three bits, each with some stalks and root. Dig a hole and plant each part in your flowerbed. Next year when they've grown and spread, you can dig them up and pull them apart again to gain even more plants.

You'll get a wonderful display in a couple of years for very little cash. Six geranium plants are usually enough to get going in an average sized garden.

Shop a wide selection of perennial plants at Crocus

4

Grow a lawn from seed

Swell MediaGetty Images

'The cheapest way to get a thriving garden is by growing a lawn by seed, as turf isn’t cheap and can be difficult to lay. With seeding, you’ve got much greater control over which species of seed are going into your new lawn,' advises Carlos Real, Lawn Care Expert and Managing Director of TotalLawn. 'For example, if you want an aesthetically pleasing lawn, you should be looking for slender fescues – this forms a close turf with bristle like, dark green, glossy leaves.

'Not only this, if you sow in the spring, you won’t have to wait long for it to grow – it’s a simple and cost-efficient way to renovate your outdoor space.'

5

Shape up

WestburyGetty Images

A simple and cost-effective way to transform your garden is to cut the lawn into a clearly defined shape – something like a circle, a square or an oblong. Mark it out with string and use a spade (try this Stainless Digging Spade by Spear & Jackson) to cut away the excess grass. It's not a difficult job and should only take an afternoon.

6

Use containers for patios

Made. com

No lawn? Container gardening is a really easy way to get your garden looking beautiful with blooming flowers. It's especially ideal for patios, balconies or other paved areas. Remember, containers can restrict root growth, so you need to ensure an even water supply and good drainage, and choose the right compost.

Pictured: Colleta, Set of 2 Splatter-Effect Planters, MADE

7

Get creative with storage

Tom MertonGetty Images

'Creating storage for your shed is the perfect time to reuse items or upcycle,' says Jack Sutcliffe, Co-Founder of Power Sheds. 'Items no longer needed in your home can all take on a new life in the shed. For instance, an old shoe rack can be used to store garden footwear or be hung onto the wall of your shed and provide great storage for things like paint cans or tools.'

8

Create a cosy outdoors

Land of Rugs

As extensions of our homes, our outdoor spaces are becoming 'rooms', and so there's a need to bring that cosy feeling into the garden. An easy way to do this is to invest in an outdoor rug. Inject some personality into your space with a pop of colour or bold pattern – and it will help to zone your space, too. To accessorise, add some garden lanterns and outdoor cushions

Pictured: Antibes Outdoor Rug Blue White Linear, Land of Rugs

9

DIY garden bar

Wayfair

Want space for entertaining in your garden? If a garden bar is out of your budget, transform your area with a DIY cocktail bar.

'There's no need to invest in a pricey readymade bar when you can update a cheap and cheerful potting bench by day into a chic drinks station by night with a simple, purse-friendly lick of paint,' says Wayfair's Resident Style Advisor, Nadia McCowan Hill.

'A good quality primer & undercoat will remove the need for laborious sanding, so all you need to think about is selecting your go-to hue. Miami pink will add a retro flavour to your bar, whereas cornflower blue is the perfect tone for an English garden spritz and pistachio tones will blend seamlessly with spring foliage. Don’t forget to seal your bar with a waterproof finishing wax to keep the sundowner sessions flowing summer after summer.'

And, of course, don't forget to style it: Add a drinks dispenser, coloured glassware and your favourite beverages – and finish off with succulents and greenery.

10

Start a vegetable patch

Svetlana Fomina / EyeEmGetty Images

Grow Your Own, even in the smallest of spaces, and save lots of money in the process. Simply corner off a section of your garden, prepare the soil, and plant some vegetables. Not only will it be a great addition to your garden, but you’ll have your own supply of tasty veg!

Chillies remain a popular choice owing to their ease of growing, colour and varieties, with names such as ‘Etna’ and ‘Meek and Mild’. Beans, peas, chickpeas, lentils, soya and other legumes are also a staple of the vegetable plot, overtaking more traditional choices such as parsnips and calabrese.

READ MORE:
Allotment ideas for beginners

11

Reuse old furniture as planters

GuasorGetty Images

One of the most cost-effective garden ideas is to simply upcycle! You can give old and tired furniture in your home a new lease of life in the garden. Old sinks and dressing tables can be turned into quirky planters, or you could use pallets to make planting tables, furniture and much more.

'Wooden pallets aren’t just cheap and easy to get hold of, they’re also incredibly versatile in your garden,' says Jack Sutcliffe of Power Sheds. 'Take a wooden pallet, fasten it upright on your shed wall and you’ve got yourself a space to store your garden tools. This type of solution may seem a little more rough and ready, but it’s cheap and very effective. '

12

Hanging baskets

Antony-KempGetty Images

Want instant colour in your garden? A really easy and inexpensive way to do this is to plant up some hanging baskets. Choose plants such as fuchsias, verbena or petunias, or you can even grow vegetables like tomatoes.

READ MORE: The best hanging basket plants for a vibrant display

13

Welcome birds

Moorland Green Wood

If you're looking for ideas to increase wildlife to your garden, install a bird feeder, bird bath or bird house. More birds attracted to your outdoor space will also mean more chances of listening to the sound of birds singing, which is great for your wellbeing. In fact, research shows that listening to the sound of birds can help lower stress and fatigue, as well as helping to combat anxiety.

You could buy one (shop a selection at the RSPB) or, if you're looking for a cheaper way, wash out old tin cans (from soup and baked beans), then paint, fill with bird seed, and hang in the garden for your own homemade bird feeder.

Pictured: Bird feeder in Moorland Green Wood Paint, Thorndown Paints

14

Transform your space with lights

Lights4Fun/Oliver Perrott Photography Ltd

It's all about the ambience! Outdoor lights offer a quick, simple and cheap way to bring a pretty glow to a patio and beyond – and there are so many styles available. Solar garden lights are popular, or you can opt for outdoor battery lights which include string lights and lanterns.

If you're using fairy lights or festoon lights, you can style them through trees or shrub branches, attach them to fences and furniture, or suspend them from canes stuck into the ground. Stringing fairy lights across a pergola or arch or even around a parasol, always looks wonderful and creates a perfect setting for alfresco dining.

Pictured: 80 LED Battery Operated Parasol Lights, Lights4Fun

15

Use stake lights to illuminate plants

Lights4Fun/Oliver Perrott

Buy stake lights to scatter amongst shrubs, place on your lawn, or stick into window boxes for instant wow factor. These are pretty inexpensive and they add a wonderful decorative touch to your garden, however small it is.

With solar lights, just place it within a sunny spot in your garden to enable a full day's charge. As evening falls, the lights will automatically shine bright.

Pictured: Flower, Bee & Butterfly Solar Stake Lights, Lights4Fun

16

DIY pond

welcomiaGetty Images

Another great way to attract wildlife to your garden is with a pond – and it won't cost much at all. Simply collect pebbles and stones, dig a hole in the garden, protect the bottom with a pond liner and hide it using the pebbles and rocks. Then fill with water to create a pond.

READ MORE: 8 steps to creating your own garden pond

17

Make your own compost

Ann Louise HageviGetty Images

One of the easiest ways to save money and garden on a budget is to make your own compost.

Jack Sutcliffe of Power Sheds explains: 'Get a compost bin and turn your kitchen and garden waste into organic matter that you can use to mulch garden borders and fill pots, boosting the growth of plants and vegetables. This idea isn’t just cheap, it’s also a great way to make your garden even ‘greener’.

READ MORE: How to make compost

18

DIY outdoor cinema

Kel Harmer/Oh So Kel

Create an outdoor cinema using materials from your home. Transform your space in an instant for movie night using a white sheet, pegs and some string. Then all you need to do is buy a projector (shop a range at Amazon to suit all price budgets).

Interior stylist Kel Harmer created this fabulous outdoor cinema in her garden. 'To create the DIY Movie Night we used string, pegs and a kingsize white sheet to create the screen and a projector which we placed on a garden table and ran the leads underneath the seating to prevent hazards,' she explains.

READ MORE: Kel Harmer's garden makeover

19

Reuse plastic bottles

Cavan ImagesGetty Images

Plastic water bottles take an average of 1,000 years to biodegrade, so avoid throwing them away altogether and reuse them. They're ideal for the garden as they make great alternative planters. Just cut open one side, fill with compost and plant seedlings, then hang with heavy duty string.

20

Tree love

Simon McGilGetty Images

Considering their size and longevity, trees are very inexpensive and just a few will make a difference to the look of a garden. Try small trees like June berry, Amelanchier lamarckii, an ornamental cherry like Prunus × incam 'Okamé', or a crab apple. Three should be plenty for an average sized garden.

READ MORE: Top 5 trees for small gardens

21

Create a path with gravel or stone chippings

bgwalkerGetty Images

When it comes to paths and patios, gravel is a much more affordable surface than paving. To lay it in place; mark out the area, then scrape away loose soil or grass, pin down a permeable membrane to stop the weeds coming through and spread the gravel over it. Aim for a depth of 2.5cm. Honey stone chippings will contrast with your lawn and planting, creating a rustic look. A large bag will cover around 20 sq metres.

'We'd recommend going for 20-30mm size stones as they generally last longer than the smaller ones and feel sturdy underfoot,' Carlos Real of TotalLawn advises.

Head to Homebase, B&Q or Wickes for all your gravel needs!

22

Use corks as plant markers

maramicadoGetty Images

Upcycle your wine corks and reuse them as plant markers.

Jack Sutcliffe, Co-Founder of Power Sheds, explains: 'Carefully slice one fifth of the cork off to reveal a flat surface, then use a permanent marker to write each vegetable's name on. Then insert your wooden skewer into the bottom of the corks. Who would have guessed that sipping wine could help you save money?'

The House Beautiful team News, advice and ideas from the team at House Beautiful UK

Budget garden ideas – 45 brilliant ways to update your outdoor space

The weather might have got us all in a spin, but that doesn't mean our gardens have to look that way! We've got plenty of great budget garden ideas to give yours a seasonal refresh, ready for hosting family and friends, come rain or shine.

Whether you're looking to make beds beautiful, planters perfect or even seating stunning, follow our top tips to transform your garden space in just a few hours.

Start by checking what needs your attention first. If your garden fencing is in need of repairing or painting, or your garden edging seems overly messy it can impact upon the whole space. Breathing new life into your back garden, or front garden, for that matter, doesn't always require a landscape gardener and huge costs– as these brilliant budget garden ideas prove.

Budget garden ideas

There are plenty of simple updates that can be achieved on a budget, and which make a huge difference to the appearance of your outdoor space. Whether it's a small garden, a patio or a balcony garden, there are plenty of budget garden ideas (or even DIY tricks) to boost your space.

From simple garden lighting to inexpensive outdoor furniture ideas, pretty planting to statement outdoor styling for summer garden parties, there are a multitude of smart ways to make your garden great without breaking the bank.

All it takes is a little planning and a few clever tricks, and you can turn any garden into a tranquil haven, country retreat or al fresco dining area - even on the smallest budget, as these garden ideas show.

1. Use old guttering to plant up strawberries

(Image credit: Future PLC/ /Howard Walker)

Don't just chuck out old plastic guttering once it needs replacing, but use it as a cheap container for growing strawberry plants instead. Attach the guttering to the wall of your house or garage and arrange in lengths sat on top of each other. Not only will this make an attractive display, it will also save you from having to bend over low flower beds, and makes the plants more accessible to pick once ripe.

2. Make a planter with built-in drainage

(Image credit: Future PLC /Howard Walker)

Another great way save cash on a planter is to use an old metal colander, and attach four lengths of chain to it to make a hanging basket. The beauty of a colander is that it has ready-made drainage holes already built in, so you don't need to worry about your roots becoming water logged. Plant it up with a mixture of flowering plants and trailing plants to make a beautiful display.

3. Bring your inside furniture, out!

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

Save money and space, by bringing out your indoor chairs and side tables, and setting them up in a sunny spot in the garden. Ok so this isn't ideal if you live in a high-rise flat, but if you can save on doubling up on seating that spends the majority of it's life tucked away in a shed, you're winning right? Think wicker chairs on your balcony, rattan numbers on the patio and cool cane armchairs nestled among the flora.

4. Make vegetable tags from corks

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Tim Young)

Save the corks from bottles of wine enjoyed with friends and upcycle them into vegetable tags. Carefully slice one fifth of the cork off to reveal a flat surface, then use a permanant marker to write each vegetable name on. Use a wooden skewer pushed into the bottom of the cork to give your tag height, then pop into the ground when you're growing your veg to remind you what's what.

5. Make a pallet planter

(Image credit: My Thrifty Life/Cassie Fairy for Mano Mano)

Make a planter which can also double as a privacy screen, using a few old pallets (and a bit of DIY knowledge). A planter is super versatile and can be filled with flowers to add colour to the garden, herbs for those looking to 'grow your own', and if you add some taller plants, it can also act as a privacy screen to zone spaces or divert prying eyes. Check out Mano Mano for the step-by-step guide.

6.

Create a candle centrepiece

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

Use vintage terracotta pots to make a simple patio display. Fill the pots with sand and push in a selection of dinner candles.

Odd numbers feel visually balanced, so use three standard sized candles or seven to nine skinny tapered ones.

Place on the table as a rustic centrepiece or along walkways to cast light and create a relaxed ambience. To repel insects use candle that contain citronella essential to deter pesky mosquitoes.

7. Make a plant marker

(Image credit: Future PLC /Tim Young)

Prettify your pots with slate labels. Never confuse your chives with your chervil again by creating handy labels to pop in your herb pots. Use a white marker pen or piece of chalk (if you want to rub them out) to write the plant names on mini slate tiles.

Bend wire using pliers to make rods with curled hooks to hang them on. Write how often plants need watering on the back of the marker.

8. Beachcomb for garden materials

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

Repurposing is always a winning way to cut down costs when it comes to seeking out  garden materials. In this landscaped garden the planting is highlighted by recycled whelk shells, lighting up the ground underneath the Acer tree at the back of the garden. The intention is to make a feature of the hero tree, and to hide the dark soil beneath.

9. Create a free vegetable garden with kitchen scraps

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Tim Young)

If you want to make your garden a bit more about sustainability, but don't really have space (or the funds) to plant a full-scale veggie patch, why not try a neat vegetable trug instead?

Marcus Eyles, Horticultural Director, Dobbies Garden Centres suggests ways to grow vegetables from kitchen scraps! 'Spring onions and celery are two kitchen staples that are easy to regrow from their root base with a couple of inches of stem attached' he explains. 'Slice across the stems, then stand them root down in a shallow glass of water. When new roots appear, plant them out in the garden to grow on.'

'For chillies and sweet peppers, collect their seeds and plant them directly into fresh compost. Then leave them to grow on a warm sunny windowsill, watering regularly.'

10. Preserve planting with 1p coin trick

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Do garden tips get much better than this 1p wonder from celebrity gardener David Domoney ?! Appearing on This Morning he explains, 'I'm often asked 'How do you tell if a plants alive or dead at this time of year if it hasn't come into leaf?'. His response, 'All your need is an expensive bit of equipment' he jests, as he goes on to explain, 'it costs a penny, it is a penny!'

He goes on to demonstrate how you use the 1p coin to scrape away a small patch of the bark on a branch, to determine the health of the plant. If it's brown, it's dead and if it's green or white (depending on the branches) it's still alive and well. This simple garden hack instantly tells you which plants are alive or dead.

11. Upcycle to make brilliant budget furniture

(Image credit: Cuprinol)

If you're on a budget, buying new garden furniture can sometimes feel so far out of reach. If you are looking for a savvy solution while you save for the dream furniture set try upcycling old wooden pallets. Above is a fine example of how a disused wooden pallet can make a fabulous garden table, thanks to a splash of vibrant colour and simple castor feet it takes on a whole new purpose.

12. Build a budget corner sofa

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dominic Blackmore)

Making your own furniture is always going to prove more budget-friendly, plus you get exactly what your heart desires. Visit your local DIY retailer and buy some basic sheets of MDF to construct a seat for your corner sofa, fashioning a back with scatter cushions for comfort. Ensuring the base is securely fastened to the walls and well-supported beneath to take the weight when garden gatherings ensue.

To add an extra touch of style, and make it feel less budget, paint the seating area in the latest on-trend colours. Add a coffee table and outdoor lighting to welcome a touch of ambience to the sociable space.

13. Paint the patio

(Image credit: Dobbies)

If you want to make your grassless garden ideas a little bolder, perk up an old patio with a splash of paint and a stylish stencil pattern. A striking floor will enable your furniture and outdoor accessories shine brighter as a result of the backdrop.

The trend became uber popular last summer, as cost-effective garden makeovers reached fever pitch.

14. Carve out a gravel path

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

Navigate your garden with a path paved with gravel and concrete slabs. This garden path idea is a great budget solution for those who want to do it themselves, rather than having to source a professional to do the job – which would substantially add to the costs.

15. Open a DIY garden bar

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Tim Young)

After a long day of work in the garden, a cheeky G&T may be just the thing you need. Fashion your own DIY garden bar with an upcycled wooden pallet mounted to the wall with a chain to drop down when required. Cheap to make, plus it'll save you a fortune from not spending at the local. Plus you can make your own DIY pallet bar – for as little as £35!

16. Invigorate with a simple splash of colour

(Image credit: Dobbies)

Adding a splash of bright colour behind your existing plants will help to breathe new life into your garden. Painting a feature wall in a bright colour, such as this sunshine yellow, will deliver huge impact without much  budget or effort. Be sure to paint with a specialist exterior paint to ensure it's suitable for the space. Choose a coordinating colour palette for pots and garden accessories, to create a cohesive look.

17. Organise garden twine

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore)

Upcycle unused kitchen funnels to organise your garden twines. Simply attached the surplus kitchen accessories onto the wall in the shed, using a hook or a picture fastening. Ensure it's secure enough to take the weight of the twine and withstand the pulling motion as the string is dispensed.

18. Use old wine corks to elevate plant pots

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Tim Young)

We've picked this tip up via Love Your Garden’s celebrity gardener David Domoney. On his Instagram David writes, ‘Use wine corks, instead of buying pot feet for containers. By elevating your pot you’re creating a gap between the container and the patio allowing the pot to drain effectively and preventing the soil from getting waterlogged’. Drinking wine to help the garden, it's a win win.

19. Make your own free plant food

(Image credit: Future PLC)

On Gardening Together with Diarmuid Gavin on BBC2, a must-watch for any keen gardener, Diarmud showed fans how to use nettles for a greater good in the garden – by making nettle soup for plants. 'The idea is to make a wonderful plant food. All you do is pop a handful of nettles into a bucket of water (preferably collected rain water) and pop on the lid for 2 weeks.

20. Upturn crates to fashion garden shelving

(Image credit: Future Plc/Spike Powell)

Use old wooden crates imaginatively to create bespoke garden storage. Upturned crates can be stacked to fashion shelving for displaying plants or simply storing pots and accessories – even garden shoes.

To ensure safety we recommend attached the wooden crates securely to the fence behind, where possible. If being used as a freestanding storage unit, say in a shed, simply attached the crates to one another and ensure they are positioned safely – so not to topple over.

21. Transform old shelves into a vertical herb garden

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

If you have an old set of shelves mount them to a fence and fill with terracotta pots to create your own vertical herb garden. You can also convert an old pallet or ladder if you don't have any old shelves lying around.

22. Repurpose peg rails

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Jamie Mason)

Repurpose old peg rails into a striking outdoor lighting fixtures. Attach any hooks or peg rails you have lying around the house to a fence or wall to create the perfect spot to hang solar powered lights or tea light holders. This is the perfect tip for adding interest to a small garden.

23. Make a shed multipurpose

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Joanna Henderson)

Create the perfect place to entertain by making a your garden shed a multi-purpose solution. It can house garden furniture in the winter, then open out into a bar for garden parties and alfresco sundowners in the summer months. Hang herbs from the roof to utilise during cocktail hour.

24. Reuse old pans as planters

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Before throwing out old pots and pans, think about whether they could be used as alternative planters instead. Their hard-wearing shells make them ideal for the outdoors. Simply punch a couple of drainage holes in the bottom before re-potting your plants.

25. Dress the garden with indoor accessories

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Joanna Henderson)

Why double up the expenses of buying beautiful home accessories? Dress your deck with attractive textural accessories that can be easily popped inside should the great British weather do its worst. Doubling up also makes the outdoor an extension of out stylish indoor spaces, a rising trend we're seeing right now for gardens.

26. Paint your house number on plant pots

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

The ideal front garden idea, painting your house number onto plant pots is a thoroughly charming way to make your house instantly identifiable. It costs next to nothing, especially if you already have a plant pot in mind and a test pot of paint. Get creative and paint the design of your choice – here simple flowers are created with freehand brush daps. To paint the numbers neatly we recommend using either a wraparound stencil or marking them precisely with masking table.

27. Fashion a plant display using old ladders

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

Step up your garden features with the help of decorative ladder shelving. These ladder shelves are formed by tying two ladders together at the top. Wooden planks laid across the runs provide the shelves on which to display potted plants, lanterns and decorative accessories. Super easy to make and totally cost effective. A step in the right direction for budget gardens!

28. Power up solar lights for ambience

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

Fairy lights in the garden help to add ambience. This clever fairy light idea is made using a kitchen staple, the Kilner jar, and a set of solar-powered lights. Powered by all day by the sun these dainty lights will cast a pretty glow over gardens after dark. They are a great solution that doesn't cost a lot at all.

29. Add interest to walls with framed plants

(Image credit: Sandtex)

Simple but hugely effective, this easy make costs just a few pounds but is a smart way to bring colour to a dull wall. It's a great Bank Holiday project – you'll need some frames, chicken wire, paints, and succulents and moss to fill them out.

30. Upcycle an old cabinet into a potting table

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Jamie Mason)

Here, an old freestanding kitchen unit has been transformed into a place to repot plants with a few easy modifications. Start with a lick of paint, and maybe look to changing the worktop – here, a surface with a lip stops soil dropping all over the floor. Add hooks to the side so you can hang trowels and other tools for easy access. Inside, you can stash compost, pots, seeds and more, freeing up space in your shed.

31. Lay a path made from old bricks

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Put that pile of leftover bricks to good use and make a path that mirrors the shape of your flowerbeds. Lay them long and sideways in a bed of gravel to create a patterned curve.

32. Add instant colour with bedding plants

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Val Corbett)

A tray of Tagetes or Antirrhinum (snapdragons) will add instant colour to your front garden and bloom throughout the summer. Be sure to feed them weekly with tomato food in the summer keep them well watered in the heat – snip off any dead flower heads to keep them looking top notch.

With the right care they should be packed with flowers until early autumn.

33. Perk up a patio with a rug

(Image credit: Weaver Green)

An outdoor rug and some oversize floor cushions laid over faded decking or a grubby patio will instantly lift your outdoor space and ensure an entertaining area just as stylish as your interior. Go for designs that are patterned on both sides, so you can flip them over if they start to discolour in the sun.

34. Impress guests with an outdoor bar

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore)

Rather than disappear into the house every time another drink is needed set up a bar outside and make cocktail hour an alfresco affair. You can pick up the materials needed to knock up your own Tiki-style serving area cheaply at your local DIY store. Or you could keep it really simple and upcycle and old wooden bar cart, making sure to treat the wood against the elements. Keeping drinks cool is as simple as filling a bucket with ice.

35. Use plastic bottles as containers

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Amy Cutmore)

It's only when you look closely that you notice this potted display is actually contained in used drinks bottles. We spotted this trick at this year's Chelsea Flower Show, and isn't it genius? Try it yourself by carefully cutting off the top of each bottle, then adding gravel for drainage, followed by soil and the plants of your choice.

36. Hang baskets filled with blooms

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Polly Eltes)

Hanging baskets are easy to make and look stunning. Make sure you use multi-purpose compost and feed regularly with tomato food. For a sunny spot use sun loving Surfinias and Bacopa and for a more shady corner try Lobelia and trailing Fuchsia.

37. Turn your shed into a summerhouse

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Dan Duchars)

If you have a garden shed, but you're not really using it for anything beyond storing a toolbox and housing some cobwebs, don't waste the extra space. You can spruce it up pretty easily and turn it into a bright and airy potting shed (if you're green-fingered) a sunny summerhouse, a neat studio or even a garden playhouse for the kids.

38. Create a bird feeder

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

It's not always big things that change the feel of a garden – it can simply amount to the sounds you hear. Boost your garden's atmosphere by encouraging birds in with a DIY bird feeder their song will instantly create a more positive feel. Talk about an idea on the 'cheep'!

39. Paint the fence

(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Giles)

Garden fences need more care and attention than we usually care to think about. How come the paint job it needs never lasts as long as we hope it will? So, if you're looking for garden fence ideas, why not treat it a bit differently next time you give it a coat of wood paint.

Use paint specially designed for outdoor use to add new life to your garden as this will help preserve the wood, meaning the colour won’t fade. Instead of your usual shades of golden or ashy brown, consider a fresh, playful colour instead. Create a bold statement with your trellis or shed by using bright oranges for a hot Mediterranean feel.

40. Upcycle drawers to create a unique planter

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Colin Poole)

If you have an old, unused chest of drawers knocking about the house, give it a new lease of life by turning it into a unique colourful garden planter! This four-drawer unit is well-balanced with two staggered tiers of plants, that bring a playful touch to your back garden design.

41. Create an inexpensive awning

(Image credit: Future PLC)

If you have a compact patio garden that's a bit of a sun trap, consider hanging a simple sail-like canopy. It won't take up the valuable space that a parasol would, but still gives you a little bit of safe shade.

You can buy shades like this at B&Q, or get creative and make your own garden shade ideas out of an old sail or sheet.

42. Opt for a one-colour wonder

(Image credit: Future PLC)

Paint everyone in one colour, save buying more than one tin. In a balcony garden, don't overcomplicate things; choose slender planters in a rich, summery colour and match your furniture. A lick of metal paint can update an old iron garden chair quite easily and is a cheap update, too. This beautiful blue has a real Mediterranean feel and, together with the slender lines of the plant pots and the chair, the small garden area feels comfortable rather than cluttered.

43. Repurpose old food tins

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Lizzie Orme)

Turn kitchen waste in garden wonders. For the planters, make drainage holes in the base of each can with a bradawl and a single hole 1.5cm from the top edge. Spray with 2 coats of paint (we used Plasti-kote spray paints) and, once dry, thread wire through the top hole as a hanger. Fill with plants of your choice.

As lanterns, draw a pattern on the can using a Sharpie pen then punch along the lines with a bradawl. Punch two holes near the top edge at opposite sides for the hanger. Spray with two coats of paint and loop the wire through the top holes as a hanger.

44. Transform a plain wall with a mural

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore)

Here, and old brick garage has been magically reinvented as a mystical pathway through the woods. And all it took was some tins of paint, applied by an expert wall artist. Commission your own work of art, or have a go yourself if you're really counting the pennies and fancy yourself as the next Banksy.

45. Boost seating with colourful cushions

(Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Bevan)

Give your old garden sofa a boost by layering it up with new-season accessories for a modern, budget-conscious look.

Keep a feeling of warmth, even in a shady corner with bright cushions and matching planting.

How can I make my backyard beautiful on a low budget?

Try all these ideas to make your backyard beautiful on a low budget. From upcycling to make your own furniture to painting the stone tiles to add some much-needed colour – there are so many ways to make the garden beautiful on a budget. where you can try your hand at DIY to ensure whatever you are updating is cost-effective.

Try dressing the garden with accessories such as outdoor rugs and shower-resistant cushions to instantly make the space feel more premium and well-dressed. All of these things can be a cheap fix to enliven outdoor spaces of all shapes and sizes.

How can I landscape my yard cheaply?

DIY garden landscaping ideas are how you do it cheaply. Put a pile of leftover bricks to good use by fashioning a cheap garden path that mirrors the shape of your flowerbeds. Lay them length and sideways in a bed of gravel to create a patterned curve that looks professionally done, rather than DIY.

Use pots of low maintenance plants to frame patios and pathways, while building raised beds using reclaimed wood to create depth for your border planting will also help save on garden landscaping costs.

Additional words: Holly Walsh

33 Small Lot Ideas

Small lots, tiny decks and small patios may seem difficult to design and furnish, but even the tiniest lot can be turned into an elegant outdoor retreat.

Small areas have many advantages, the main one being that they do not require much maintenance.

Whether you're looking to create an impressive balcony garden, cram garden furniture into your patio, or fill your yard with greenery, there are plenty of ideas below to inspire you. And if you're working on a tight budget, we'll show you how to get what you want without spending a fortune. nine0003

  1. Zoning space

This site consists of three parts, each of which has a clear individual purpose. On the upper level, there is a cabin and a patio bathed in the morning sun. The central seating area is designed for communication. Next is the reservoir. Due to the versatility, the space seems larger.

  1. Adding color

Using bright color on walls and fences helps add depth to a space. nine0003

This allows the plants to stand out, creating the illusion of space. Not to mention the positive emotions that a splash of color evokes.

  1. Create a sense of height with different plants

A smart and simple idea for decorating a small area is to play with height to add a sense of space and depth. Use plant pots of different heights and scales to make the most of the space. This is the perfect solution for small patios and balconies. nine0003

  1. Add levels

Add charm to a small garden with levels. It can be a recessed terrace or a raised lawn. Overhangs and steps will help you make better use of the space by adding extra space for plant pots or garden furniture.

  1. We equip the wall with hanging shelves and a table

Even in a tiny garden you can enjoy drinks thanks to the compact folding bar counter. Create your own outdoor entertainment space with a clever hanging rail made from wooden pallets and a long chain. nine0003

  1. Consider vertical gardening

Use the vertical wall space to place plant containers. This allows even the smallest garden plots to flourish. The simple yet thoughtful addition of horizontal surfaces can transform an unaesthetic barn wall into a decorative hedge.

  1. Add a smart outdoor kitchen

Don't let a small garden get in the way of your summer kitchen dream. Increase the capacity of your kitchen with narrow tables placed along a wall or fence. nine0003

  1. Make a ground cover with different materials

Fill a small garden space with different areas. A good way is to choose different materials for the floor. Just as indoors different floors signify a change of room, outdoors it can help subconsciously enlarge a space by defining different zones.

  1. Use color and mirrors on the walls to expand the space

In a small garden it is useful to mask the walls as much as possible. Painting exposed walls green helps to harmonize them with the surrounding greenery. Add a decorative garden mirror to enhance the illusion of space.

  1. Get creative with your shelves and hooks

Shelves and hooks aren't just for indoors. Create an extra precious surface for pots and accessories by placing some hanging shelves. nine0003

Old scaffolding supported by metal brackets, which you can buy at your local store, is a budget solution. Wall shelves will free up space on the floor from lanterns and plant pots. The support rail can also be an ideal place to install outdoor lighting.

  1. Expand your indoor space

Make your small garden bigger by making it an extension of your indoor space. Combining outdoor and indoor space will make it more valuable, no matter how small it may be. nine0003

Decorate your small garden space with furniture and decorative lamps to spend more time in it. Potted plants will add charm. Since garden furniture can be moved from time to time, you get a sense of freedom from a change of scenery.

  1. Squeeze in a small dining table.

Don't let limited space get in the way of your outdoor dining experience. Buy a compact dining table, such as a half-size table. It fits neatly against the wall without intruding into tight spaces. nine0003

  1. Use outdoor mats

Create the illusion of space by zoning your garden layout. Lay a decorative outdoor rug to highlight your living and dining area. The flooring will act as a reference point, so you can comfortably arrange furniture around it. Highlighting each area helps create a sense of the functionality of the space.

  1. Paint a partially blank fence

Draw attention with artfully painted backgrounds to create the illusion of height and space. A simple two-tone fencing can spice up any space. Using a dark color helps make the effect stand out and also complements the green foliage nicely.

  1. Organize extra seating

Buy some large floor cushions in case you have guests over. They are easy to stack on top of each other when not in use, perfect for easy storage. Patterned cushions or bright colors can also help bring personality to the space. nine0003

  1. A canopy helps you make the most of your space

Upgrade your shed with a canopy. In winter, the barn can be used to store garden furniture, and in summer it can be converted into a bar for outdoor parties. Great idea!

  1. Take your plants to the next level

Make the most of your small space by arranging items at different levels with vertical shelving. This graceful staircase creates additional space for potted plants and garden accessories. Height allows more efficient use of space. nine0003

  1. Make the most of every corner of the yard

If your small garden is a courtyard, consider how you can make the most of every inch of space. Often, a courtyard can appear enclosed due to the looming brick walls surrounding it.

Using corner seats or a high-backed sofa can help hide most of the walls, which in turn will distract and create the illusion of space. nine0003

  1. Make a mini greenhouse

Even the smallest outdoor space can include a greenhouse for growing plants. Design this IKEA style tall cabinet - just stand it up and attach it to the wall in a sunny spot.

  1. Mount the plant box under the kitchen window

Use old boards to make a simple plant box that can be placed directly under the kitchen window. This is a great place to grow herbs. nine0003

  1. Hang a hammock

The ideal place for outdoor recreation is a hammock. It will instantly turn your garden or patio into a lounge area that will rival any beach bar in Ibiza. Hang it in the shade, perfect for chilling out on a hot day. When the hammock is not in use, both ends can be hung on the same hook so that space can be used.

  1. Make low curbs that you can sit on

Perhaps you only have enough space for a couple of chairs? What happens when friends come to visit? By adding raised beds surrounded by borders, you will not only make plant care easier, but also create additional seating for guests. For comfort, add pillows that match the color of your plants.

  1. Create a true living wall

Once the domain of design installations and innovative commercial solutions, living or green walls are increasingly making their way into small gardens. nine0003

To create these vertical gardens, plants are rooted in a structure attached to a wall.

Various herbaceous perennials, annual herbs, small shrubs and even fruits and vegetables can be used. Try adding scented plants, seasonal flowers, and bulbs.

  1. Paint the walls white

White paint is often used in interiors because of its brightening properties. It can be successfully used in the exterior. With a white painted brick wall and white patio furniture, your small garden will feel like a Mediterranean one. nine0003

  1. Place planters and planters at different heights

You don't need a lawn to create a lush garden, and you don't need flower beds either. A low-maintenance flooring option, such as gravel, is great for smaller gardens. Add lots of plant pots next to your garden furniture and you have the perfect place to enjoy a summer day.

  1. Vertical gardening

Use climbing nets and trellises to add color and greenery. This is a great solution for small gardens as it lifts flowers and foliage off the ground. A beautiful fence will draw attention away from a tiny area - after all, if you and your guests focus on beautiful roses or hot pink trellis, who will notice the size of the garden?

  1. Decorate your yard with colorful furniture

Even the smallest terrace can be turned into something exceptional. If you have a small area, a landscaped terrace can be a good solution that combines elegance and low maintenance. A simple finish, such as tile or traditional stone, creates a rustic feel, while thoughtful furnishings provide privacy. nine0003

Simply add comfortable seating to create the perfect outside room. Here, outdoor furniture paint makes the space special. Please note: Seat colors do not have to match - bright hues like orange and pink go great together.

  1. Pursue beauty and functionality

Make small spaces inviting and provide a modern look with clear landscape lines. Create interesting interconnected areas with a variety of materials such as painted flooring, light-colored patio slabs, and decorative stones or rubble. Then plant plants to bring the landscape to life. nine0003

  1. Add decorative elements

Even the smallest spaces can be turned into decorative outdoor space. Lay concrete step slabs and use a narrow rustic table or bench to create a central focal point.

Keep the look chic and unpretentious with shingles, topiaries and flowering plants in orange and yellow. Add elegance with aluminum and stone planters and carefully selected items such as a large lantern and unusual bird sculptures. nine0003

  1. Focus on furniture

Place items of interest at the end of the garden and create the illusion that your space is larger than it actually is. Choose white patio furniture and place it at the back of the paved area.

Play with space by strategically planting large shrubs to partially block your view, giving the impression that there is more to see.

Add interest to your garden with climbing plants and evergreen shrubs. This is enlivened by brightly colored favorites such as foxglove and delphinium. nine0003

  1. Organize a place for the little ones

Design an ingenious little space that will appeal to both kids and fun lovers. Build a playhouse that fits seamlessly into your garden perimeter.

Complete the camouflage effect with a stonecrop roof to make the house blend in perfectly with its surroundings. Store bright furniture inside so it's easy to take it out for play and put it back in when not in use. nine0010

  1. Perfect your look

Create an outdoor living area for the summer months. Even if you have a small area with some natural greenery, you can create the look of a colorful garden with flower pots and planters. Just like indoors, choosing neutral walls and floors can make a small garden look lighter and brighter.

How to make a small area beautiful?

Living green walls are trendy and can be used to hide unsightly borders and add lush foliage even in a garden where space is limited. nine0003

A stylish fireplace will become an unusual focal point in the garden and allow you to enjoy summer evenings even longer.

Bright colors will also make a small garden really sing. You can achieve this with brightly colored plants, opt for a set of brightly colored garden furniture, or even paint your fence or barn a hot pink or blue.

How to arrange a small garden?

If you want to change the layout of your small garden, start by exploring the existing space. Look at what plants are already growing and think about where the sun falls. nine0003

If, for example, you like having a large group at dinner, you probably want to place the dining table where it is sunny. But in the afternoon heat, you will also need shade. Where is the dead space? Or a barn to stay in the shade for half a day?

Think about how much time you are willing to devote to the care of the site? If you're short on time, more intricate landscaping and more hardy plants will require much less attention than complex planting lawn and garden beds. nine0003

Paving and gravel yards are still popular and concrete is on trend.

Which plants are best for small gardens?

Start by determining your soil type and garden conditions, then purchase the right plants.

Evergreen conifers look great all year round. Use shrubs and trees of varying heights, as well as soft grasses and herbaceous perennials, to add vibrant colors and soften architectural elements. nine0003

Plant a mixture of bulbs that will bloom in spring in pots - they are also low maintenance and look great in high traffic areas like patios.

Climbing plants are great for small gardens - honeysuckle and jasmine will fill your garden with fragrance.

You can also plant fruit trees and fill the beds with vegetables. What could be better than harvesting a fresh crop of lettuce or strawberries?

Potatoes, beans and onions are also fairly easy to grow and don't require a lot of space. On 10 square meters you can grow enough for a family of 5 people. nine0003

We hope that our little garden ideas have inspired you to create your own garden. Do you have any other great ideas for a small garden?

Tamara Kelly

Feb 26, 2021

Budget Walkway Ideas (Garden & Backyard Design)

A garden path can be a great way to fully nurture living areas and effectively outdoors. Least enjoy relaxing in the backyard. Creating your own garden path does not require large expenses. nine0003

Many inexpensive options are available such as pea gravel, paving stones, flagstones, bark, timber and pebbles. For those who want to create a beautiful garden path, these are the best path ideas on a budget.

The small but cozy patio in the picture above is furnished with comfortable seating furniture in a round red stone seat. A lone red slab is laid out vertically to the entrance to the passage to serve as a passage to the smaller circle. Pebbles and boulders of various shades and shapes are scattered everywhere, contrasting with the greenery of tall thin trees and potted plants. A low wooden bench is located at the back of the patio for extra seating and as a contrasting design element. nine0003

Garden paths can make or break a backyard. The materials need to be practical and durable because it can be frustrating to keep replacing an expensive paver that doesn't meet the needs of homeowners. It's also important to use material that matches the surroundings and doesn't detract from the floral area you've worked so hard on. Finally, it is important that the garden path is safe to use. The path will be the main path of movement throughout the garden, so it must be slip-resistant, highly visible, and easy for people (and pets) to step on. nine0003

Here are some inexpensive but beautiful materials that you can use when choosing design garden paths for your home. Don't forget that these materials can be mixed and matched to give your garden more variety beyond the usual plants and flowers.

Slabs - can be the hardest DIY to make, but large cut flat stones give any garden an instantly luxurious rustic look. They also withstand harsh weather conditions and require little maintenance, as aging only improves their appearance over time. Some popular uses for flagstone include sandstone, travertine, and limestone for a paler tone. For bolder hues and textures, slate, bluestone, or quartzite are also good options. nine0003

Wood A warm and easy addition to any garden, wood comes in many cuts and sizes so there is a lot of variety when choosing what works best for your garden. Aside from aesthetics, make sure you choose wood that is resistant to mold, weather, and wood rot, as these are in close contact with moist soil. To reduce the need for maintenance, it would be wise to apply wood sealant and apply termite protection to the wood prior to installation. nine0003

Fine gravel is a quick solution when you need to create a garden path, any garden or hardware store will most likely sell gravel, just ask for the size of the fine gravel otherwise the stones will be too big. Simple and hardy, fine gravel is great for gardens that prefer a more industrial style. To avoid placing small stones, place a barrier around the area to be washed with fine gravel, preferably larger stones, or metal or plastic lining around the edges. nine0003

Pebbles is a more elegant solution for fine gravel, the pebbles have a better variety of colors as well as a nice round shape. Your local gardening supply store should stock a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes that you can simply pour over a dry patch of compacted soil. As with fine gravel, be sure to install an edge barrier to keep rocks from flying across the garden.

Concrete is one of the most basic building materials today. Surplus concrete left after building a house can be used to quickly lay paths in the garden. Store-bought concrete in single paving stones or made from home mold is a reliable and extremely cheap solution for those on a budget who need a garden path. This concrete can also be used in large strips and molded into regular shapes such as circles or rectangles. In addition, some concrete mixes need to retain the imprint of the leaf or shape of the top layer so that the slab is more non-slip and also adds design to what would normally be an everyday part of the garden. nine0003

Pebbles - To give old plain concrete a look, consider adding a layer of pebbles on top of the concrete to give it more texture and color. It is also a good way to improve the non-slip properties of garden paths, even if the steps are overgrown with moss.

This gorgeous tulip garden is a gray concrete path surrounded by a white river road. A simple do-it-yourself walkway project like this one can be done with no experience and without putting a lot of effort into your budget. nine0003

This beautiful garden path is made from gravel and pressure treated wood. The path is surrounded by a bed of bark interspersed with plants and stones that create a unified garden design.

This backyard flower garden is the perfect place for an inexpensive concrete path leading from the house to the lawn. Concrete pavers are very affordable and easy to use.

Although simple, this dual yard walkway design contrasts with the difference in color and texture between fresh green grass and fine gravel. Surrounded by river cliffs, a sense of order is maintained, and at the far end stands a lone wooden lawn chair - a great way to enjoy the view of the old red brick house in the background. nine0003

This DIY garden path is constructed from paving stones laid in a bed of river stone, with a line of brick structure to separate the path from the grass. The path leads to a small wooden terrace with a gazebo in the backyard overlooking a small pond with a stone fountain.

Flat stones are laid out horizontally, forming terraces on the sides for a wide cluster of bushes and shrubs. To match the rustic quality of the horizontal stones, large free-form slabs were used for the steps in the garden, as well as for the platform that fanned out into the garden. These slabs can even be made from concrete and will be strong enough to withstand all kinds of weather conditions as well as heavy user foot traffic. nine0003

The large green lawn is covered only in places with collections of exotic plants and trees. A small path winds along the perimeter of the garden with low bushes on one side and a gravel path on the other. Made of randomly arranged stone blocks, the empty spaces are filled with simple crushed gravel, all flanked by a linear arrangement of roughly scattered mini boulders to keep the path neat and orderly.

This beautiful garden path includes some very interesting textures. Semi-cylindrical mounds rise above the ground, rounded logs are horizontally laid out along their path. The alternating diagonal squares on the track are a set of circular weathered wood cross-sections. These round platforms provide a smooth, even surface as opposed to the uneven, unpredictable texture of logs.

This grassy backyard was quickly transformed with the addition of a reclaimed wooden walkway on a raised platform. With a lighter wood tone than the wood used for the perimeter fence, it can be the center of attention in this minimalist backyard. The sinuous nature of the deck also allows users to enjoy walking to and from the backyard and provides a better visual aesthetic than a linear one.

Purple flowers accentuate the rough, rough texture of square paving stones. The walkway pavers are finished in a gray pebble wash finish that matches the existing pebble wash paths attached to the house and lined with potted plants. Pebbles are not only cheap and easy to clean, but they are also abrasion resistant and non-slip even in wet conditions.

This rustic but comfortable patio of gravel on the rear yard is laid out between large paving stones paved with pebbles. The gravel bed is held in place with metal barriers on the side that also hold the soil and mulch used for plant boxes that contain many native shrubs and weeds. In the center of the garden is a great seating area with modern style wooden and metal benches and tables, a high stretch fabric hammock and low wooden benches under large canopy trees. nine0003

In the garden's backyard, a series of curvilinear cut flagstone blocks in a beige meander. The light-coloured slabs contrast beautifully with the reddish nature of the shavings scattered across the planting area. The rustic secondary tree used for the low perimeter fence and the short rows of a variety of blooming flowers also bring rustic charm to this backyard garden.

Tall garden plants with green and purple leaves peep out next to rows of white flowering bushes. These two planter sections surround a grassy garden path tiled on each side with rectangular, textured stone tiles. This grassy path leads to the central tree, which is shaped like a helmet. nine0003

This gravel path skirts a low red brick garden wall. The whitish color of the small pebbles contrasts with the overgrown vine bushes that occupy the garden wall. In addition, tall vertical purple lilies on the opposite side contrast with the horizontal nature of the gravel path and low brick wall.

Japanese-style home with large zen garden outside of strict walking paths. It consists of very fine gravel, which is necessary in order to be able to traditionally comb the pebbles with a rake. Large flat but rough tones are scattered throughout the garden, leading from the large step to the hallway of the house to the street. A lone bonsai tree is the only greenery in the garden, except for the dense pine trees behind the house. nine0003

Large steps of rough hewn stone are stacked on top of each other to form a series of steps that cut through the sloping bank of grass. For budget reasons, large boulders can be replaced with poured concrete, given a worn and worn appearance, and then coated with a suitable water-weather sealer to increase durability.

This rough, flat stone path runs through this rich mission garden. Low white rose bushes gather around the base of larger shade trees, and a path leads to a central stone fountain surrounded by low bushes. To the side is a red brick terracotta floor used for patio decor, contrasts in color with the plain gray stone of the walkways.

This rustic backyard features a homemade concrete stone walkway built from a resin mold that is framed with glass bottles in different colors. The path is surrounded by white gravel and wooden fence .

In this example, a linear series of reclaimed railroad timber is laid out horizontally on a lush patch of grass. Despite the simple and minimalist design, it's actually a great way to reuse existing materials and integrate them into new environments to give them new life. Weathered wood like this is also known for being highly resistant to heavy foot traffic and lends a rustic feel to a simple lawn path. nine0003

Round garden paving stones in various sizes are molded from concrete and built into the garden path. This is a cheap but effective way to create a path in a lowland garden. The red shavings scattered across the steps ensure that the concrete is not damaged by growing weeds and also provides a good contrast in color and texture to the plain gray pavers.

This simple garden path is 100% made from USA made cedar boards. Tied together with a flexible and discreet nylon cord, backyard installation takes just a few minutes. It's also a great choice for backyard owners on a budget, and is naturally low maintenance due to cedar's resistance to rot and harsh weather. The pale yellowish color is also striking in a pristine green lawn. nine0003

Good garden ideas on a budget should be inexpensive and easy to install. Set between a grid of log pots, these flagstone concrete steps are an effective and creative way to decorate a garden path. The do-it-yourself mold is made of plastic and can be used repeatedly when shaping the concrete mix. In addition, concrete can be mixed with various colors of liquid cement to create a brighter accent with weathered planter wood and green lawn.


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