If your backyard is looking more like an abandoned jungle (thanks to fewer woollen friends) than entertainment or play area for the kids, it might be sign you’re due for a makeover. You don’t have to go on a backyard blitz to make your backyard work for you instead of looking like an eyesore. Here are some tips to give your backyard a cheap and cheerful makeover that’ll look a million bucks.
Plant a garden
If there’s a huge swathe of unused space in your backyard, you might want to invest in planting fruit and vegetable garden with a few flowers for added flair. Use a fence to have flowers and veges resting against it for a rustic look. It only costs a few dollars’ worth of seeds, some digging, fertiliser, and watering. Easy peasy!
Hang a hammock
Got two trees? Then you’ve got space for a hammock. Even if you don’t have two trees or posts, you can purchase self-standing hammocks for lazing about summer or spring days. Online retailers usually sell them, as well as most hardware stores.
Install a small shed
If your inside is cluttered or you don’t know where to put all your tools, you may want to upgrade your shed with something new or improved. A small 2x2m or 4x4m kit can store a lot of your stuff or serve as a playroom for kids or as a small workbench. Note that sheds larger than 10x10m will likely need council approval and professional construction – but these smealler ones you can knock up in an afternoon.
Add a few outdoor furniture pieces
Create an instant outdoor entertainment area by placing some furniture under the patio or among your trees. If you don’t have trees, don’t sweat it – you can put up a marquee or shadecloth to keep people cool. A few wicker or plastic couches, tables, and chairs make a real difference to your home! Optional for winter: buying an outdoor space heater.
Create tree garlands
Hanging string lights or garlands in your trees or awnings gives your backyard a whimsical glow in the summertime and will wow guests – and their kids – alike. A few fairy lights or lanterns can also distract from mozzie zappers or traps, too! Opt for solar or battery powered lights to save a bit of money over time.
Other quick ideas
Other quick and easy ideas to beautify your backyard is to plant hanging flowers from trees; install a small swing for kids or adults; plant some well-manicured shrubs to create a sense of depth; put in a low-maintenance pond that doesn’t require plumbing; build a small gazebo instead of a shed (as always, check with the council before you start); or install a stone path with larger feature rocks for a Zen garden style look.
There’s no shortage of looks you can create just by browsing your local hardware or landscaping store – and they can add tremendous value to your home in both aesthetics and sale price. It just takes a bit of creativity, planning, and hard work!
