The idea of creating a beautiful lawn or backyard on a budget can be overwhelming. But sometimes the best cheap landscaping ideas are right in front us, and we don’t even see them. I’ve definitely tried my hand at landscaping-on-a-penny … with mixed results. So, I asked the Artificial Turf Supply team about their experiences, and I’m here to help you transform your outdoor space into a budget-friendly paradise that’s as fun as it is stylish!
Low-Budget Landscaping Basics
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- Assess your budget and prioritize your backyard must-haves
- Plan and design your backyard based on your needs and preferences
- Choose low-maintenance, native plants that thrive in your climate
- Consider investing in budget-friendly artificial turf for a low-maintenance lawn
- Install an above-ground pool for affordable summer fun
- Get creative with recycled materials for eco-friendly and unique features
- Opt for budget-friendly paving and pathway options
- Find affordable outdoor furniture options
- Incorporate water features and lighting on a budget
Affordable Landscaping – Planning & Budget
If you need to stick to a budget, the first thing you have to do is make some plans and do some homework. So take a good hard look at your budget. How much green are you willing to spend on your green space? Make a list of your backyard must-haves. Then prioritize them based on your budget. Trust me, you don’t want to blow your entire budget on a fancy water feature only to realize you can’t afford to buy a lawn chair to sit on while you admire it!
So, now you have your budget sorted. It’s time to plan and design your dream backyard. Don’t worry, you won’t need a degree in landscape architecture to create a beautiful space. Just grab a pencil and paper (or a fancy design app if you’re feeling tech-savvy) and start sketching out your ideas.
Think about how you want to use your backyard – do you want a cozy seating area for entertaining? A play space for the kids? A garden bursting with fruits and veggies? The possibilities are endless!
Plants: Landscaping That’s Low-Cost & Low-Maintenance
Okay, we’re dealing with landscaping, so we have to start with plants. I have exactly zero green thumbs, so I’ve learned that the key to a low-maintenance backyard is choosing plants that thrive in your climate. Look for plants that are native to your region and climate. That way, they’ll be well-adapted to your soil and weather conditions. For example: if you’re living in Colorado (the high desert), many grass types will struggle to thrive without TONS of watering. Taking this approach wastes less water (a real money saver). Plus, using local plants attracts local wildlife like birds and butterflies. You’ll be like Captain Planet!
Quality Artificial Turf on a Budget
If you’re anything like me, you love the idea of a lush, green lawn but don’t want to spend your weekends mowing and watering. And you definitely hate those water bills in today’s water-scarcity situation. Well, you should give artificial turf a look and compare it to your current costs of natural grass.
I know, I know – fake grass might seem like a cardinal sin to some backyard enthusiasts. But hear me out! Artificial grass has come a long way. It definitely uses less water, so you save on that monthly bill. Today’s turf options are more realistic than ever and require almost zero maintenance. And you have a lot of great artificial turf landscaping options:
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- Combine artificial grass with pavers to create wonderful lawn designs
- Turf is great for pets, and pet-owners don’t have to deal with muddy paw prints in the house
- Turf can be combined with other artificial foliage for beautifully layered or sculpted looks!
Creative Ideas for Using Recycled Materials
One of my favorite budget-friendly backyard ideas is getting creative with recycled materials. Old tires can be repurposed into colorful planters. Reclaimed wood makes beautiful rustic furniture or garden borders. You can find a lot of these really creative options at flea markets and second-hand stores.
Obviously, this can help you save money. But you’ll also add some unique, eco-friendly charm to your space. Just make sure to check for any creepy crawlies before bringing those materials inside!
Affordable Landscaping Approaches to Paving and Pathways
So, what if I want cheap landscaping ideas that are a great marriage of form and function? I recommend you use hardscaping options like stones, pavers, and gravels to create pathways or visual breaks in your lawn. Stones can be arranged in a spiraling pattern. Pavers can be laid out in a grid to bring you some symmetrical satisfaction. And walking down a gravel pathway between flowers is good for both your eyes, nose, and soul.
When it comes to paving and pathways, there are plenty of affordable options that don’t skimp on style. Gravel paths are surprisingly budget-friendly. You can also create a DIY patio using concrete pavers or reclaimed bricks. Just don’t forget to leave some space between the pavers for plants to grow – it’ll add some softness and charm to the area.
Above Ground Pools – Affordable Summer Fun
To many folks, the idea of paying for a pool is outrageous. I can’t blame them. A full-blown in-ground pool might require you to take out a second mortgage. But what if you could step outside on that hot summer day and slip into an affordable above-ground pool that doesn’t drain your bank account?
One of the best things about above-ground pools is that they come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit any backyard and budget. Whether you’re looking for a small, inflatable pool for the little ones or a larger, more permanent structure for the whole family, there’s an above-ground pool out there for you.
Of course, as with any backyard addition, there are some safety considerations to keep in mind. But with a little bit of planning and preparation, an above-ground pool can provide hours of affordable summer fun for the whole family.
Outdoor Furniture on a Budget
So, what are some cheap landscaping ideas that use furniture? While it might be tempting to splurge on a fancy lounger or dining set, there are plenty of affordable options that’ll still make your backyard feel like a resort. Check out second-hand stores or online marketplaces for gently used pieces that you can spruce up with some fresh cushions or a coat of paint. Or, if you’re feeling handy, try your hand at building your own furniture using reclaimed wood or pallets.
Water Features and Lighting Ideas
Bird baths, small fountains, and outdoor lighting elevate your outdoor experience, and you have some great wallet-friendly optinos. You might not want to pay for one of those huge, majestic fountains, but you can still get that same soothing ambiance with a smaller fountain or bird bath.
And there are few things more magical than a post-sundown backyard party with those twinkling lights woven into the tree branches overhead. This is outdoor memory-making at it’s finest … without adding much heft to your budget.
Bring Your Affordable Landscape to Life!
The most important thing? Have fun with your design and make the space your own. Your backyard should be a place where you can relax, unwind, and make memories with the people you love.
Get a free quote to start your project today. From all of us here at Artificial Turf Supply, happy landscaping!
