For those that have never done it before, landscaping can be intimidating. Many people are scared to try it themselves, thinking it’s best left up to professionals. However, there are plenty of simple ways to spruce up your yard without having any prior experience.
First, decide what you want to use your yard for. Do you want it to be a space where you can unwind and read a book? Will you use it as a space to entertain? A place to grow your own plants and vegetables? Or all of the above?
After deciding how you want to utilize your space, look at the space you have. Is it big enough? How does wind move through it? Where does the sun hit? These observations will help you to determine how to plan the layout of your yard.
When you have an idea of what you want to do with your space, you can begin these simple projects yourself.
Simple landscaping ideas to get you started
Plant a flower bed
If you’re unsure how to begin creating your landscape, start with a flower bed. This is a small step that will start to improve the layout of your yard. Depending on your landscaping plans, you can choose to plant it wherever you want, as long as the area provides optimal weather and lighting for the plants and soil you choose. When your flowers are planted, fill the area with mulch and line the bed with stones, for a clean and finished look.
Take your time to plant your bed by working for an hour or two when you have the time. You’ll enjoy the finished product even more if you enjoyed the process of creating it.
Establish a focal point
Lots of good, simple designs start with one big item; a tree, a shrub, a bench, a bonfire pit, or even a swimming pool. Consider where you may place one larger item and then let the rest of the yard’s design flow from there. If your yard already has a large item, work with it to enhance or direct eyes to the item in question.
Create a pathway
If you have a high-traffic area of your yard, say between a back door and a garage, create a pathway of stepping stones and mulch. If you haven’t made stepping stones before, you can find step-by-step instructions in our DIY backyard guide. Line the pathway with solar accent lights to shed some light without wasting any electricity and plant small shrubs along the edges to keep the mulch contained. This small project is both functional and attractive and will add variation to your yard.
Switch it up
To define different areas of your yard and to make your space more visually appealing, consider using different landscaping materials like rock, mulch or gravel.
The same principles that guide how you set up an indoor room should guide your outdoor designs as well. Set up separate areas for different activities. For example, if you have a space that you would like to use as an eating area, lay stone for a patio so that you have a defined space for your table, chairs, and grill. In the example below, the patio is surrounded by a thin frame of rock, and boxed in by shrubs. The landscaping defines the seating area, almost appearing as its own room for an intimate feel.
Simple landscaping ideas work!
Remember: patience is key. The process of creating a landscape will take time, especially if you’re working alone. However, landscaping doesn’t have to be expensive or require too much effort. There are many small projects you can complete over time to improve the look and feel of your property. A simple change to your yard can make a big difference. For more DIY backyard ideas, check out our Frador Tips.
