Backyard Landscaping - Smart Upgrades for a Thrifty Backyard Renovation - Budget-Friendly Tips for Outdoor Bliss

Transforming your backyard into a tranquil staycation oasis doesn't have to break the bank. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can achieve a stunning outdoor space without draining your wallet. Your backyard renovation starts here with some simple backyard design tips.

One of the most cost-effective ways to enhance your backyard landscaping is by repurposing and refurbishing existing furniture and decor. Consider giving old patio furniture a fresh coat of paint or repurposing wooden pallets into stylish outdoor seating; or go thrifting to create a cozy outdoor seating area. You can also buy second-hand or garage sale patio pillows to add comfort and style to your backyard landscaping project. By breathing new life into your existing pieces, you not only save money, but also contribute to a more sustainable and eco-friendly backyard retreat.

You don’t have to have a green thumb to incorporate gardening into your backyard renovation. Take advantage of space-saving backyard design and build up. Vertically garden using wall-mounted planters or hanging pots. This design tip helps you add pops of greenery while maximizing your space and keeping your budget in check. You can inject some backyard DIY into your backyard renovation by upcycling wooden pallets, wheelbarrows or ladders into DIY planters, vertical gardens, or unique plant containers to give your backyard even more personality.

Are you someone who likes to entertain outdoors in the summer? Use inexpensive string lights or solar-powered lanterns to instantly enhance your backyard design, especially in the evenings. If you want to be more hands-on with a backyard DIY, you can also create some of your own backyard lighting using candles or tealights and mason jars – using a clothesline strung across the yard; or paint some large planter pots with glow-in-the-dark paint. DIY projects not only allow you to customize your outdoor space according to your unique preferences, but also provide a sense of accomplishment.

Create your own backyard DIY pathways using materials like gravel, mulch, or inexpensive paving stones. Gravel and crushed stones are a low-cost-fast-draining nonslip surface, whereas mulch provides a casual, natural look and feel but works best in low-traffic parts of the yard. By taking the DIY route, you'll both save money and infuse your outdoor space with a personal touch that commercial products may lack. Remember that straighter pathways help extend the appearance of your home, and it’s easier for your guests to follow while you are entertaining them in the backyard. When starting this backyard design, remember to plan your pathway before you build.

Low-maintenance backyard landscaping – native plants are hardier and require less care than other plants. You can also use mulch – since you still have it from your DIY pathway, to retain moisture and reduce weed growth. Native plants are well-adapted to your local climate.

Additionally, they attract local wildlife, fostering a more natural and vibrant ecosystem in your backyard. Opting for perennials instead of annuals ensures that your garden remains lush year after year without the need for frequent replacements.

Lisa Wagner, a certified rug specialist from National Institute of Rug Cleaners (NIRC) and creator behind RugChick.com says that there are three main reasons you might buy an outdoor rug: “to protect and prevent surface area damage, for safety to avoid slips and falls, and to add a stylish element to a space.” Whichever of these reasons is most important to your backyard renovation plans, remember to factor in airflow to avoid the rug becoming mildewy. You can get a backyard rug second-hand, at garage sales or at thrift stores, and they can help make the backyard feel more like an extension of your entire home.

As the seasons change, and interior design changes, incorporate some trends into your backyard landscaping planning. Seasonal decoration, such as lanterns, seasonal flags or festive touches help refresh the backyard seasonally, without making significant investments or major changes.

Bonus: feeling extra productive? Why not build your own simple pergola courtesy of The Spruce. 

 Creating a serene and inviting outdoor space through your backyard design planning isn't just about aesthetics; it's also a powerful investment in your overall well-being. Numerous studies highlight the positive impact of spending time in nature on mental and physical health. A well-designed backyard serves as a private haven, for your dream staycation, offering a retreat from the stresses of daily life.

While embracing DIY projects can add a personal touch to your backyard upgrade, certain aspects are best left to the expertise of professionals. Tasks such as electrical work, plumbing for outdoor features like fountains or irrigation systems, and major structural changes require a level of skill and knowledge that professionals bring to the table. Professional landscapers can provide valuable insights into soil quality, plant selection, and overall backyard design, ensuring a cohesive and thriving outdoor space. Come to a home show near you and connect with local experts with the skills and experience to help you turn your house into your dream home.