20 Small Backyard Landscaping Ideas on a Budget

Want to spruce up your small backyard without breaking the bank? You’re in luck! There are lots of easy and cheap ways to make your outdoor space look great. From DIY projects to clever plant choices, you can transform your yard into a cozy oasis.

With a little creativity and elbow grease, you can create a beautiful backyard on a budget. We’ll show you 20 ideas to get started. These tips will help you make the most of your space, no matter how small. Get ready to enjoy your outdoor area like never before!

1. Container Herb Garden

Want fresh herbs at your fingertips? Start a container herb garden! It’s easy and budget-friendly. Pick a sunny spot on your patio or deck.

Use pots you already have or find cheap ones at thrift stores. Fill them with potting soil and plant your favorite herbs. Basil, mint, and rosemary are great choices for beginners.

Water regularly and snip off leaves as needed for cooking. You’ll save money on store-bought herbs and enjoy the fresh flavors all season long.

2. Vertical Plant Wall

A vertical plant wall can turn a plain fence or bare wall into a living, green masterpiece. You can create one using recycled pallets, hanging pockets, or even old gutters.

Choose plants that thrive in your climate and require similar care. Herbs, succulents, and small flowers work well. Water-resistant materials and proper drainage are key to prevent damage.

This space-saving garden adds beauty and life to your backyard without taking up precious ground space. It’s a budget-friendly way to make a big impact in a small area.

3. Reclaimed Wood Planters

Reclaimed wood planters add rustic charm to your small backyard. You can make them from old pallets or scrap wood. Paint them in bright colors or leave them natural for a weathered look.

These planters are perfect for growing herbs or flowers. Place them along fences or walls to save space. You can even stack them to create a vertical garden.

4. DIY Water Feature

You can make a simple water feature without spending a lot. A small fountain or bubbler adds a peaceful sound to your yard. You can use a container you already have, like a pot or barrel.

Add a pump, some rocks, and water. This creates a nice focal point in your garden. You can even add small plants around it for a natural look.

5. Stepping Stone Path

A stepping stone path adds charm to your backyard without breaking the bank. You can create one using inexpensive materials like concrete pavers or natural stones.

Space the stones in your lawn or garden bed. Make sure they’re level and stable. For a budget-friendly option, use pea gravel between the stones.

This path not only looks great but also provides a practical walkway through your yard. It’s an easy DIY project you can finish in a weekend.

6. Fairy Lighting Strings

Fairy lights can make your backyard magical without breaking the bank. You can wrap them around trees or fence posts for a twinkling effect. String them across your patio or hang them from branches to create a cozy atmosphere.

These lights are cheap and easy to find at stores or online. They come in different colors and styles to match your taste. With fairy lights, you can enjoy your backyard even after the sun goes down.

7. Upcycled Pallet Furniture

Got old pallets lying around? Turn them into cool backyard furniture! You can make chairs, tables, or benches without spending much money.

Try a simple coffee table by stacking two pallets. Add wheels to move it easily. Paint it to match your style.

For seating, create a comfy bench with a pallet base and cushions. It’s perfect for relaxing outside without breaking the bank.

8. Hanging Bird Feeders

Hanging bird feeders are a great way to attract feathered friends to your backyard. You can make simple feeders using plastic bottles or jars. Cut holes in the sides for birds to access the seeds.

Thread wire or string through the top to hang them from tree branches. Fill the containers with birdseed and watch the birds flock to your yard.

9. Paver Patio Squares

Paver patio squares offer a budget-friendly way to spruce up your small backyard. You can create a cozy seating area with just a few square pavers.

Choose concrete pavers for an affordable option. They come in various colors and sizes to fit your style.

Lay the pavers in a simple grid pattern for a clean look. You can do this project yourself to save money.

10. Raised Garden Beds

Raised garden beds can transform your backyard on a budget. You can build them using inexpensive materials like cinder blocks or cedar wood.

These beds offer many benefits. They improve drainage and soil quality. They also make gardening easier on your back and knees.

Try different shapes and sizes to fit your space. You can grow vegetables, herbs, or flowers in your raised beds. They’re perfect for small backyards and add visual interest too.

11. DIY Fire Pit

Want to add warmth and ambiance to your backyard? Try building a DIY fire pit! It’s a budget-friendly project that can transform your outdoor space.

You can use pavers or concrete blocks to create a simple circular pit. Stack them in a ring shape and secure with landscaping adhesive.

For a rustic look, try using natural stones. Arrange them in a circle and fill the gaps with smaller rocks or gravel.

12. Succulent Rock Garden

A succulent rock garden can add a unique touch to your small backyard. It’s easy to create and doesn’t cost much. Pick a sunny spot with good drainage for your garden.

Choose small succulents and pair them with different types of rocks. Mix smooth river stones with rough boulders for variety. This combination creates an eye-catching display.

Remember to use drought-resistant plants. They need less water, saving you money in the long run. Your new succulent rock garden will be both beautiful and budget-friendly.

13. Garden Trellis Arch

A garden trellis arch can add charm to your small backyard. It’s a budget-friendly way to create a focal point and support climbing plants.

You can build a simple arch using wood dowels and slats. Plant jasmine, roses, or honeysuckle to cover the structure. This will create a lush, green entryway to your garden.

Choose plants that thrive in your local climate for best results. A trellis arch can transform your backyard into a cozy, cottage-like space.

14. Vintage Wheelbarrow Planter

Want to add a charming touch to your small backyard? Try a vintage wheelbarrow planter. It’s a budget-friendly way to bring character and greenery to your space.

Look for an old wheelbarrow at yard sales or thrift stores. Clean it up and fill it with colorful flowers or herbs. You can even paint it to match your garden’s style.

Place your wheelbarrow planter in a sunny spot. It’s perfect for showcasing your favorite plants and adding a unique focal point to your yard.

15. Repurposed Tire Planters

Old tires make great planters for your backyard. Paint them bright colors to add a fun pop to your garden. Stack a few tires to create raised beds for vegetables or flowers.

You can hang tire planters on walls or fences too. Fill them with soil and add your favorite plants. It’s an easy way to recycle and spruce up your yard on a budget.

16. Bamboo Privacy Screen

A bamboo privacy screen can give your backyard a peaceful, natural feel. It’s a budget-friendly way to add seclusion to your space.

You can buy bamboo fencing rolls at home improvement stores. These are easy to install yourself with some basic tools.

For a DIY touch, try making a frame from wood posts and attaching the bamboo to it. This creates a sturdy, attractive screen that blends with your garden.

17. Garden Mirror Illusion

Garden mirrors can make your small backyard look bigger on a budget. Place a mirror on a fence or wall to create depth. It will reflect plants and light, making the space feel more open.

Choose a weather-resistant mirror for outdoor use. Look for deals on second-hand mirrors to save money. Prop one up on a potting bench or hang it low to double the look of your plants.

18. Rain Barrel Watering

Rain barrels are a budget-friendly way to save water in your backyard. You can make one from a trash can or old garbage bin. Just add a filter and spout.

Collect rainwater from your roof to water your garden for free. It’s easy to set up and helps reduce your water bills.

Rain barrels also cut down on stormwater runoff. You can use the water for your lawn, plants, or even washing your car.

19. Recycled Glass Path

A recycled glass path can add sparkle to your backyard. Collect colorful glass bottles and break them into small pieces. Mix the glass with concrete and pour it into molds or directly onto your path.

This eco-friendly option creates a unique, shimmering walkway. It’s budget-friendly and lets you upcycle old materials. Your path will catch the sunlight and create a magical effect in your garden.

20. DIY Garden Edging

Want to spruce up your backyard on a budget? Try making your own garden edging! You can use everyday items like glass bottles, plastic containers, or old bricks.

Bury bottle necks side-by-side in the soil for a fun, colorful border. Or create a mini fence with wooden stakes and twine. Even flat rocks painted in bright colors can make eye-catching edging.

These DIY options are cheap and easy to do yourself. They’ll give your yard a unique look without breaking the bank.