Brilliant Backyard Landscaping for Small Spaces

With summer upon us, it’s time to make the most of your outdoor space. Some backyard landscaping for small spaces ideas can make your backyard an oasis. An excellent way to enjoy the warmer temperatures while creating a calming space where friends and family can gather.

There are numerous ways to add color and character to your backyard, from seating areas with weather-resistant furniture to decking it out in flowers and decorations that add visual interest. Backyard landscaping is also cost-effective to boost your home’s resale value.

Build a Fire Pit

Building a fire pit in your backyard is ideal if you’re searching for a cozy place to enjoy a cup of tea in the wintertime or an inviting spot to host friends and family during summer nights. Not only does it create an attractive focal point, but it can also help ward off mosquitoes!

Before you begin constructing a fire pit, you must select a secure area in your yard. Position it at least 10 feet away from buildings, fences, or trees for added safety.

Once you’ve chosen a location, begin by laying down a base layer of blocks around the perimeter. Afterward, build additional staggered layers, ensuring each is level and all brick tops are lined up. Once your foundation of bricks is in place, cover it with a 4-inch layer of sand. Next, add another 4-inch layer of gravel or crushed stone.

Install Backyard Outdoor Lighting

Installing outdoor lighting is an ideal way to transform your backyard into a tranquil haven. It will add visual interest and ambiance and increase safety and security for everyone in the yard.

Begin by creating a lighting plan for your space. This will enable you to light your backyard on a budget. Decide which fixtures best suit your objectives and aesthetics. Outdoor LED lights cost more upfront but have a longer life.

Next, dig a shallow trench along the path you plan to install your lights. Be sure to bury the wire at least 6 inches deep to meet local codes. Once your trench is dug, push the cable down and stake each light position into the ground. Repeat this step until all your fixtures are securely installed.

Once your lights are installed, plug in the power pack and turn on the timer. This will give you a chance to test each fixture before making adjustments. Ensure each light shines brightly without glare, and the timer is set for dusk-to-dawn operation.

Create a Seating Area

If you want to make an idyllic retreat in your backyard, one of the best ways is to add a seating area. This space can be used for anything from reading in the sun to hosting guests and enjoying summer’s warmth.

Constructing a seating area can be a simple endeavor. Instead of scattering chairs throughout your garden, create defined boundaries using plants or built elements like fences, arbors, and trellises for outdoor seating areas.

Boundaries provide direction for an outdoor seating area, signaling whether it will serve as a social hub or a private sanctuary. This strategy works well in both urban gardens and rural settings alike; however, it should be delayed until after hardscaping has been completed before adding planted boundaries.

Add a Backyard Pergola

Pergolas can be custom-built by a landscaping expert or purchased as kits from reliable manufacturers.

A pergola can be the perfect focal point for your garden or entertaining area. Also, a pergola provides plenty of room for hanging potted plants – the ideal addition to any deck or backyard patio.

Customizable to your requirements, these screens offer features like lattice screens and partial walls. Furthermore, adding them to your backyard landscaping plan can increase the value of your property when selling it in the future.

Add a pergola to your backyard for an effortless sanctuary. Not only will it encourage you to spend more time outdoors, but it can also increase the value of your home to potential buyers.

References for Backyard Landscaping for Small Spaces

DMACC: Native Landscaping – https://www.dmacc.edu/urban/sustainable/prairie/Pages/native-landscaping.aspx

UNH: Ornamental Gardening and Landscaping – https://extension.unh.edu/agriculture-gardens/yard-garden/ornamental-gardening-landscaping