15 Budget-Friendly DIY Landscaping Ideas to Try Today

Do you have a dream or plan for your backyard? Do you want to start incorporating some natural beauty and landscaping ideas into your everyday life?

If so, this blog is for you. In it, we will be discussing DIY landscaping, what it is, how it works, and the different benefits that come with it. We will also provide tips on how to plan your landscape, budget for it, and ensure that you take care of it throughout the year.

So if you're looking for some inspiration or helpful advice on landscaping, this blog is definitely for you!

What is DIY Landscaping?

DIY landscaping, or Do-It-Yourself landscaping, refers to the practice of designing, planning, and implementing landscaping projects by homeowners or individuals without professional assistance.

It involves taking on various tasks such as planting trees, shrubs, and flower beds, creating garden beds, installing pathways or hardscapes, and designing outdoor spaces.

DIY landscaping allows individuals to express their creativity, save costs, and take ownership of their outdoor environment. It can range from simple, small-scale projects to more complex and extensive transformations, depending on the individual's skill level and ambition.

How much does DIY Landscaping cost?

Small-scale projects: For simple DIY landscaping projects such as creating a small flower bed or adding a few potted plants, the cost can range from $100 to $500.

Medium-scale projects: If you plan to revamp a larger yard area, install a garden pathway, or build a small patio, the cost can range from $500 to $2,000.

Large-scale projects: Extensive DIY landscaping projects that involve major transformations, such as building a deck, installing irrigation systems, or constructing a retaining wall, can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 or more.

15 Best DIY Landscaping Ideas

Upcycle old items

Looking for a fun and creative way to enhance your DIY backyard landscaping? Consider upcycling! Upcycling old items saves you money and adds unique touches to your yard.

Repurpose old tires into planters or swings, transform pallets into vertical gardens or outdoor furniture, and turn mason jars into candle holders or hanging planters.

Don't be afraid to get creative with the items you have on hand - upcycling is an excellent opportunity to add a personal touch to your landscaping while promoting sustainability by reducing waste.

Grow from seed

Starting your landscaping project from seeds is a budget-friendly and best way to add greenery to your outdoor space. Whether you're starting indoors or outside, growing plants from seed allows you to enjoy a wider variety of plants than what's available at local nurseries.

Be sure to research which plants are easier to grow from seed before starting. With care and patience, growing from seed can be an affordable yet rewarding DIY landscaping project that delivers a unique and personal touch to your yard.

Mulch

Mulching is an affordable and low-maintenance way to enhance the appearance of your landscaping. It adds aesthetic value and provides numerous benefits for your plants.

Mulch acts as a protective layer that helps to retain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. With regular mulch applications, you can reduce the watering needed while promoting healthy plant growth.

Many types of mulch are available, such as wood chips, straws, or leaves. Choosing the right type of mulch depends on factors like climate, soil type, and plant species. Applying the correct mulch thickness is important to avoid suffocating your plants.

Incorporating this simple technique into your DIY landscaping routine allows you to enjoy a lush and healthy outdoor space with minimal effort and cost.

Use perennials

Using perennials is a cost-effective and low-maintenance way to add color and texture to your landscape. These plants return year after year, making them a long-term investment for your DIY landscaping project.

Additionally, perennials come in various types, from groundcovers to tall blooming flowers, providing versatility in your garden design. Native perennials are also ideal for the environment as they perfectly adapt to local conditions.

Planting them in groups or clusters can create a more cohesive and visually appealing landscape while reducing maintenance needs.

Propagate plants

Propagating plants is an excellent way to add greenery to your landscaping without breaking the bank. You can create new plants from existing ones by using stem cuttings, division, or layering.

Not only does this save you money, but it also lets you customize your garden with unique and interesting varieties of plants. Whether you want to propagate succulents, herbs, or flowers, several techniques can help you succeed.

Build a composting bin

Building a composting bin is an eco-friendly and budget-friendly way to reduce waste while improving soil quality. Composting helps to break down organic matter, such as food scraps, leaves, and grass clippings, into a nutrient-rich substance that can be used as fertilizer for your garden.

Not only does composting help to reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills, but it also provides your plants with the essential nutrients they need to thrive.

DIY garden edging

Garden edging can give your landscaping a polished look and help to define garden beds and pathways. Several DIY garden edging options are available, including using stones, bricks, or even recycled materials such as bottles or pallets.

Simple trenching and filling with decorative river rocks or mulch is another easy DIY option. Consider using plants such as low-growing shrubs or flowers as natural edging.

By choosing a DIY garden edging option suitable for your particular landscape, you can save money and add a personal touch to your landscaping.

Build a raised garden bed

A raised garden bed is a great way to add depth and dimension to landscaping. They can be made from various materials, such as wood, bricks, or cinder blocks, and can be customized to fit the specific needs of your plants.

Using compost and organic soil can improve the soil quality in your raised garden bed and promote healthy plant growth. Raised garden beds are also ideal for those with limited mobility, as they require less bending and kneeling during gardening activities.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly landscaping idea that adds visual appeal to your property, a raised garden bed is a great option.

Use gravel or mulch

Regarding landscaping, gravel and mulch are two cost-effective options that can add texture and color to your yard. Gravel can be used to create paths or as a ground cover in areas where grass won't grow.

Mulch provides nutrients to plants, helps retain moisture in the soil, and prevents weed growth. Both materials come in various colors and textures to fit any landscaping style.

Plus, using gravel or mulch can reduce the amount of water needed for your plants, making them more eco-friendly.

Paint garden accents

Consider painting garden accents if you're looking for creative and budget-friendly DIY landscaping ideas. Painting old pots, birdhouses, or even rocks can add a pop of color and personality to your outdoor space.

You can choose colors that complement your landscaping or use bold, eye-catching hues to make a statement. Don't be afraid to get creative with stencils or patterns for added visual interest. Spray paint is convenient for larger items, while acrylic paints work well for smaller pieces.

DIY rain barrel

DIY landscaping is a great way to save money and reduce water usage. A DIY rain barrel is a simple and affordable way to do this. By collecting rainwater in a large plastic drum, you can use it to water your plants or wash your car.

Rain barrels also help prevent runoff and erosion in your yard. By blending decorative elements with your landscaping, you can create a beautiful and sustainable landscape without spending a lot of money.

Use natural materials

DIY landscaping is a great way to add natural elements and textures to your garden without spending much money. You can create pathways or borders around garden beds by using natural materials such as stones, rocks, and wood.

Alternatively, you can create planters or raised garden beds with wooden pallets. In addition, using natural materials helps promote sustainability and eco-friendliness in your landscaping.

Plant trees

Planting trees is a fantastic way to add beauty and value to your landscape. Trees provide numerous benefits, such as reducing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, improving air quality, and providing shade in the summer months.

Additionally, planting fruit-bearing trees can provide a source of fresh produce for you and your family. When selecting tree species to plant, consider those that are native to your area for better adaptation and easier maintenance.

Add outdoor seating

When it comes to creating a backyard or garden landscape that is both beautiful and comfortable, outdoor seating is a great option. You can create seating areas using materials such as wooden pallets, cinder blocks, or even old tires.

Adding comfortable cushions and pillows can make your seating area even more inviting. Consider incorporating shade elements such as umbrellas or pergolas to make the space more comfortable during the hot summer.

DIY garden art

DIY garden art is a fun and easy way to add personality and charm to your outdoor space. You can use materials such as old dishes, bowling balls, or even broken tiles to create unique and colorful mosaic pieces.

Vertical gardens made from recycled pallets or hanging baskets are also a great way to add greenery to small spaces. Creating a DIY water feature using a large pot or tub is an affordable way to add the soothing sound of running water to your garden.

Mulch or rocks can be used as a ground cover, adding texture and color to your landscaping.

Planning your DIY Landscape

Assessing your space

When planning your DIY landscape, it is important to assess your space carefully. Factors to consider include the size and shape of your yard, existing features such as trees or rocks, and the amount of sunlight and shade in different areas.

Once you have a rough understanding of your yard, make a sketch or map of it to help visualize potential landscaping ideas.

If you notice any areas that need special attention, such as erosion-prone slopes or areas with poor drainage, take note of them and plan to address them during landscaping installation.

Creating a budget

Creating a budget is a crucial step towards achieving your DIY landscaping goals. It helps you determine how much you can afford to spend and where to allocate your resources for maximum impact.

Start by assessing the areas of your yard or garden that require the most attention, and then consider using affordable materials such as recycled pallets, stones, or native plants to keep costs down.

DIY projects such as building raised garden beds or installing a water feature can also be cost-effective and add value to your property.

Designing your landscape plan

Designing your own landscape is a great way to customize your home environment in a cost-effective way. By planning your project carefully, you can create a beautiful and functional landscape.

Start by sketching out a rough plan of your yard and identifying areas that need attention. Then, consider incorporating inexpensive elements such as recycled materials or repurposed objects into your design.

Finally, add lighting and other decorative elements to complete the look of your landscape.

Choosing plants and materials

DIY Landscaping maintenance tips

Landscaping can be expensive and time-consuming, so it's important to find creative and budget-friendly ways to do it. By following these simple tips, you can create beautiful landscaping without breaking the bank.

For example, start by creating a plan before you start working. This will help you determine what you need and how much it will cost. Then, use low maintenance plants that require minimal care. This will save you time and money in the long run.

Use a drip irrigation system to conserve water and lower your water bill. And lastly, consider adding outdoor lighting to enhance the beauty of your landscape at night.

Watering and fertilizing plants

When it comes to maintaining your DIY landscape, it's essential to water and fertilize plants on a regular basis. watering should be done early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid water loss.

Fertilizing can be done with organic options like compost or manure or with store-bought options that cater to specific plant needs. Following instructions carefully when applying fertilizer is important, as over-fertilization can harm plants.

Proper watering and fertilizing can help you achieve a lush, beautiful landscape without breaking the bank.

Pruning trees and shrubs

Pruning trees and shrubs is essential to maintaining a healthy and attractive landscape. By following a few simple tips, you can ensure that your landscaping is kept in good condition year-round.

Using the right tools for the job is important, such as sharp pruning shears or loppers. Make sure to prune at the right time of year for each specific plant species to avoid damaging them.

Properly pruned trees and shrubs can improve curb appeal, increase property value, and create a more enjoyable outdoor space.

Controlling weeds and pests

A well-maintained garden free of weeds and pests can be a beautiful and cost-effective addition to any home. By following a few simple DIY landscaping tips, you can control weeds and pests without using harmful chemicals.

Regularly pulling weeds by hand and using natural pest control methods can help keep your garden healthy and free from pests. Additionally, planting companion plants that naturally repel pests can help protect your garden without relying on chemicals.

Cleaning and maintaining hardscaping features

Maintaining your landscaping features, such as hardscaping features and pathways, is important for keeping them in good condition and looking their best. Cleaning can be done using a pressure washer or a simple scrub brush and soap.

Sealing hardscaping materials like concrete or stone can help protect them from the elements and prolong their lifespan. Regularly inspecting hardscaping features for cracks or damage can prevent more extensive repairs down the line.

Maintaining your landscaping features regularly can also improve the overall appearance of your landscaping.

Pros & Cons of DIY Landscaping

Pros

One of the primary benefits of DIY landscaping is the potential cost savings. By taking on the work yourself, you can avoid labor fees and have more control over the expenses. You can also choose budget-friendly materials and shop around for the best deals, potentially reducing overall costs.

DIY landscaping allows you to express your creativity and personalize your outdoor space according to your vision. You can choose the design, plants, and features that align with your taste and preferences, resulting in a unique and personalized landscape.

Cons

DIY landscaping can be time-consuming and physically demanding, especially for larger or more complex projects. It requires research, planning, and executing various tasks, which may require a significant investment of time and energy.

If you have a busy schedule or limited physical abilities, it may be challenging to complete the project to your satisfaction. Professional landscapers possess extensive knowledge and experience in their field.

By opting for DIY landscaping, you may lack their expertise, which could result in suboptimal design choices, improper plant selection, or mistakes in installation. This can lead to less-than-desired outcomes or the need for costly corrections.

Bottom Line

DIY landscaping is a great way to save money and enjoy a beautiful outdoor space. By researching and planning your project before starting, you'll ensure success. Use inexpensive materials like recycled items or natural elements like rocks and plants.

Consider adding functional elements like seating or a fire pit for added enjoyment. Remember to maintain your landscaping regularly to keep it looking its best.  For more information and such articles, visit our website, ArkaEnergy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a free app to design Landscape?

Yes, there are several free apps available to design Landscape. Some popular Pinterest options include iScape, Home Depot, Home Outside, and Garden Planner & Design App.

These apps allow you to visualize your landscaping ideas and make changes before implementing them. Be sure to check app reviews and features before choosing the one that suits your needs.

What is the cheapest way to landscape a backyard?

The cheapest way to landscape a back or front yard is by starting by creating a plan and budget for your project. Using plants that are native to your area can be an affordable and low-maintenance option. Incorporating recycled materials like old bricks or pallets can add unique and inexpensive features to your landscape design.

Which one is better: sod, gravel or mulch?

The choice between sod, gravel, or mulch depends on your landscaping goals and budget. Sod may be more expensive upfront but quickly provides a lush green lawn.

Gravel is low maintenance and works well for paths, walkway, driveways, pavers, or rock gardens. Mulch is affordable and helps retain moisture in the soil while adding aesthetic value to your landscaping.

What is the best type of grass to use for DIY Landscaping?

The best type of grass for DIY landscaping will vary depending on your area's climate and soil conditions. Some popular options include Bermuda grass, Zoysia grass, and Fescue grass.

Bermuda grass is well-suited for warmer climates, while Fescue grass is better for cooler regions. For the best results, it's a good idea to consult a local nursery or landscaping professional who can help you determine the best type of grass for your specific DIY project.