November 22, 2021
Making your backyard more aesthetically pleasing can be a years-long project. Depending on the dimensions of the yard you’re working with, your local climate, and your budget, putting together a backyard that you can be proud of is quite the endeavour. Often, people want a nice, relaxing backyard space for entertainment and enjoyment. Many people often want a nicer yard and have proposals to start the project, but they are unsure exactly where to begin or what improvements to make. Here’s a few ideas for improvements to make in your backyard.
It’s a good idea to start with what you have and spruce it up. Trimming the trees in your front and back yard can be a great first step to getting that nicely manicured look. Much of the basic tree trimming you can do yourself, but you’ll often need to hire professionals for the bigger (and taller) jobs. Trimming your trees isn’t just about the look, either. Keeping your tree pruned and healthy can decrease the chances of dead and dying branches falling and causing damage. Tree trimming can also help direct a tree and keep it growing in the right direction. Trees that are growing too close to roofs or power lines can be a hazard.
After you’ve gotten your trees all nicely trimmed, consider putting in some new greenery. Few things add to a yard the way plants, trees, and shrubs do. If you’re the DIY type and you feel like you have a green thumb, consider planting new greenery yourself. Check out this guide for how to properly plant trees and shrubs in your yard, and select a few good spots. If you need help picking out which kinds of shrubs and trees to plant, consider consulting a professional landscaping service. Most landscapers will be happy to offer their advice, and you can get quotes on their services at the same time too.
Stone is a great material to work with in yardscape because it is so versatile. Most people like the unhewn, natural look of stone and it can be used in many different ways around the yard. Pathways, driveways, patios, and around flower beds are a few ideas. Stone can also be used to assemble a low wall or form guardrails around different fixtures in the yard. Stone also makes a good outdoor flooring choice and it can be used in lieu of concrete for a more edgy-looking driveway. You can also use stone as a base for the patio area: the natural tones of the rocks make for a classier feel than concrete paving.
Adding a pool is always a surefire way to take your backyard to the next level. Not only does it make your backyard an automatic entertainment destination, but adding a pool almost always increases the value of your home. An in-ground pool, that is. And they are often easier to put in than you might think. Concrete trucks can reach over objects and obstacles on your property. Installing a pool can get a little tricky, though, if you feel you already have a smaller backyard. Why not try installing a hot tub instead? Not only are hot tubs more versatile and potentially more relaxing than a pool, but they can also double as a swimming pool during the warmer months.
Planting a garden is one of the best ways to enhance your yard space. Not only are gardens aesthetically pleasing, but they can also be practical. Studies have shown that working outside in a garden can reduce stress and improve mood, perhaps related to the extra sun exposure. And let’s not forget that you’ll be getting lots of tasty vegetables that you can serve in soups, salads, or just have as a snack. You don’t necessarily need a lot of space to garden, either—urban gardens are a new trend and can be started using very little yard space. Beginning a successful garden will take some research, though, so be sure to check out what sort of plants grow best in your climate.
And while you’re thinking about creating space—don’t forget to set aside some lawn space too!
Setting aside a blank area of the lawn can be great for playing lawn games, setting up a kid’s soccer field, backyard picnics or really anything that you can think of to use with a plot of grassy land. Having a multi-purpose area in your yard may feel counterintuitive, but having an open area can be more of a boon than you might initially think.
One trend that’s really hoping these days is installing an outside kitchen. Outside kitchens are very popular with BBQ folks, but really, anyone who enjoys dining and entertaining outdoors will enjoy them. Outdoor kitchens come in many sizes and have a variety of abilities. Some fully-equipped outdoor kitchens include a wood-fire pizza oven and a BBQ smoker, and others are more kitchenettes and bars. Whatever your fancy, if you’re into outdoor entertaining and food, it’s something to consider.
And speaking of outdoor entertaining, what’s a backyard without a deck or patio?
Decks and patios are a surefire upgrade to any backyard. Not only are they great for hosting guests and holding outdoor events, but they usually also increase the resale value of your home, decks especially. Decks and patios are very versatile and can be constructed using a variety of materials. Whether it’s wood, stone, or some combination, there’s a style out there to please even the pickiest homeowner.
Improving your yard space is an exciting adventure. Putting together your project list and prioritizing it in order of where you need to start first are key to creating a front and back yard that everyone in your household will enjoy.
Read this next: Home Projects that Should Be on Your To-Do List
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