DIY Gardening Tips To Liven Up Any Yard
If you love gardening, you know that regardless of the size, having it look its best is always the goal. With some imagination, creativity, and dedication, DIY gardeners can follow simple tips and ideas to improve their gardens no matter the size.
This article will explore some of the best tips and ideas to help any DIY gardener make their garden look beautiful. Whether your garden is large enough to grow an orchard or just a few herbs, the tips and ideas will help you create a garden you will love.
Old Becomes New
DIYers can make the most of their garden by repurposing old furniture into new sets, shelving, and containers. With thought and creativity, you can easily create seating areas, colorful planter boxes, and multi-functional storage.
Re-imagine an old dresser or nightstand by painting it a bright hue and adding some plants on the top as decoration. You can also convert broken chairs into rustic garden benches or give cabinets a new life as vertical planters. Effortlessly, you can turn your garden into a unique and vibrant outdoor space.
Rubble And Debris Urbanize Gardens
Using materials such as broken bricks and other yard waste to improve the look of a garden is an ideal way to be sustainable and creative. Pieces of bricks can be made into walks, walls, seating, and more. Yard waste can be used to create mulch and compost or as a protective cover from wind, sun, and insects.
Creatively repurposing materials like this in a garden can produce stunning results. It is also a great way to save money while giving new life to materials that would have otherwise been thrown away.
Perfect Gardens Start With The Lawns
Lawn maintenance is imperative for creating a beautiful and healthy garden. It involves basic tasks such as mowing, weeding, and trimming to ensure grass growth and health. Regular lawn maintenance can help to keep the garden free of weeds, pests, and diseases.
This not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal of the garden but also keeps it healthy. For amateur science nerds, grass absorbs carbon dioxide, making lawn maintenance essential for creating a clean and healthy environment. After exerting your green thumbs perfecting your yard, take the time to enjoy your work.
Elevate Your Plants And Garden
Using potted plants on patio tables, stools, and platforms is a great way to enhance any garden. This can save space, making it especially useful in urban settings such as apartment balconies and rooftops. These ostrich planters are alternative ways to elevate your growing flowers and create a forest-style look.
You can also use trailing vines in tilted terracotta pots to give the tables or stools a textural layer. Potted plants are a great way to add life to a yard, make the space look fuller, and add a touch of style.
Mirror Mirror In The Garden
Old mirrors or pieces glued together can be an elegant and beautiful way to update the look of a garden wall. Installing the new window treatment in an outdoor area can add light, depth, and visual interest to the outdoor space. They reflect the surrounding area and can be easily dressed up with various plants or other decorations.
Depending on size, these mirrors can also give the illusion of a larger outdoor space. When attached to the wall, the effect will be stunning and can add a unique, stylish update to the garden decor.
Paint Greenhouses, Sheds, And Furniture
Painting a garden greenhouse or shed in bright colors can add life to a dull garden. You can choose bold, cheerful colors like yellow or orange to make a noticeable impact. Once the paint has been applied, add plants and other outdoor decor to complete the look you are going for.
As a bonus, a painted shed can help protect your garden tools and supplies for years. Repainting garden greenhouses and sheds in bright colors is an easy and affordable way to revive and enhance any outdoor space.
Sunflowers And Tall Plants Create A Beautiful Gaden Oasis
Creating a personal sanctuary in the backyard by planting sunflowers and other tall plants can be a great way to take a break from the heat and sunlight. The tall blooming plants will provide a shield from the sun while providing a vivid splash of color.
Planting these plants also adds beauty and life to any garden while providing a peaceful atmosphere within view. Sitting and enjoying the windswept plants serves as an escape from life's chaos, allowing one to relax in the beauty of nature's wonders.
Shape Your Gardens And Planters
Shaped planters create a unique and eye-catching beehive look to any garden or outdoor space and are built with a straight edge and a saw. To create circles and triangles, use wooden boards cut to desired lengths and screw them together before drilling holes for drainage.
Add potting soil and fill your planter with colorful plants for a fun and geometric look. Consider adding outdoor lighting around it for evening appeal. With these simple steps, you can have showstopping planters that stand out in any garden.
Turn Old Tables Into Board Games
The kids at the picnic table deserve some fun. With old patio tables that have seen better days, why not turn them into something new and fresh? Chess and checkerboards can be painted on the tabletop easily to give the kids something to do at the picnic table.
Also, you can paint whatever else you want, like animals or shapes, so your kids can use them for any other kind of board game or counting game. Turn those old picnic tables into something special for the kids, and they will love it.
Section Off Your Garden
Take advantage of the backyard by rearranging the outdoor furniture pieces. Start by moving the patio set and chairs to an area with adequate shade to create a conversational seating area. Place the deck furniture close to the grill and produce a lounging zone for BBQs and get-togethers.
Consider utilizing outdoor rugs or pillows to define each space and create a distinction within the outdoor area. To add a touch of comfort and coziness, hang string lights, outdoor planters, and décor to wrap up the new outdoor lounge.
Bloom Uniquely-Shaped Plants Like Cacti
One great tip to boost any garden of any size is to buy plants and flowers with unique shapes, patterns, and colors. Instead of wasting money on expensive items or becoming an amateur carpenter building things for the garden, invest in rare and vibrant plants that will instantly brighten the look of it.
The perfect blend of creativity and patience can transform a dull green garden into a unique and colorful sanctuary. Plants and flowers make for a great addition and can be used to enhance the overall aesthetic as well as the character of the garden.
A Plant Wall Is Always A Good Idea
DIY wannabes are always up for a challenge and a unique way to add flavor to any garden. Taking old slatted bed bases and converting them into vertical planters is an example of a creative project. The plant boxes can be filled with flowers, herbs, succulents, or vegetables.
Painting it in bold colors brings out character and makes for a truly one-of-a-kind piece. Installing it in a corner of the garden can help develop depth and give the garden an edgy appearance. This is a fun and attractive way to show off your green thumb.
Step Up Your Planters
To create a unique and creative enhancement for your garden, try making shelves of planters in the form of a ladder or steps. Gather materials such as sturdy wood planks, screws, wood glue, nails, paint, and clay pots. Use the wood planks to make rungs and to build the sides of your steps or ladder.
When the framework is ready, insert the clay pots into the steps and secure them with screws or nails. Finally, paint the shelves the color of your choice. The new plant structure can easily be moved around your yard or inside your home.
Use Old Tires As Flower Pots
Old tires are often thrown away and create waste. One great way to recycle them is to turn them into flower pots. To do this, paint tires with any paint or leave them as-is. Then, use a small drill or saw to make holes in the bottom for drainage.
Fill the tire with soil, compost or mulch, and plants or flowers. Place the tire in the desired spot in the garden or indoors, and the result is an eco-friendly way to decorate with plants and flowers.
Transform Old Tables Into Garden Tablestops
Transform those old pool and card tables into charming outdoor tabletops for your garden. Present the tables with weather-proof treatments, for example, oil, wax, or paint. To create the perfect outdoor experience, place potted plants around the tables and incorporate a bit of nature into the environment.
To start, fill the centers of the tables with flowers or other small plants. This will turn the tables into an imaginative work of art as you dine al fresco in the comfort of your garden.
Raised Flower Beds Out Of Damaged Fences
Instead of trashing broken wooden fence pieces, reuse them to create something beautiful and inspirational to admire. A great option is to transform them into large flower beds. This will spruce up the garden or yard, and it is a great space-saving solution for small yards or condo balcony gardens.
To show a drop of ingenuity, these beds can be customized and arranged to create a picturesque garden. The broken fence pieces will be reused, making it an eco-friendly DIY project. So, bring life to old fencing by adding flowers for a charming and sustainable way to update your outdoor space.
Upcycle Used Milk Jugs Into Planting Pots
Using recycled materials is an excellent way to create planting pots. To begin, gather old plastic milk jugs. Using some wood, build a rack to support them by running a beam through the handles. This allows more to fit in a row and securely be held in place.
Each jug should then be filled with soil or another growing medium, and plants of choice can be added. Adding drainage holes at the base makes sure excess moisture can escape. This sustainable project will brighten up your home and help protect the environment.
Fill The Pool With Plants And Rocks
The old neglected pool can be transformed from an eyesore to a place of beauty. For the hole where the pool once was, soil can be poured in to form a flat surface that can be used for making flower beds. Small planters can be used to deck up each corner with colorful flowers.
Benches can be placed around the area for people to sit and appreciate the beauty of nature. With the combined beauty of trees, flowers, and seating, the abandoned pool can be transformed into a visually attractive space.
Reimagine Colanders As Hanging Plant Baskets
The colander may not be the most suitable kitchen tool anymore, but it can still be repurposed to showcase plants and flowers. Start by securing wire or wired clothes hangers onto the colander with the help of pliers. Tie a knot near the end of the hangers, adjusting the length as needed.
With the holes in the colander, tie a rope, string, or ribbon for a more secure suspension. Finally, hang the basket onto any hook and fill it with soil. Your flowers and plants will be brighter and more vibrant than ever.
Un-Mow Your Lawn
Growing grass, bushes, and shrubbery can create privacy while fostering a diverse ecosystem. Mowing and manicuring less frequently add more plant species that can grow and spread. This will create a mix of wildflowers, ornamental grasses, and other plants flourishing in various habitats.
The mixture can also provide an ideal habitat for wildlife and improve air and water quality. Creating a haven of lush greenery can be a splendid way to increase privacy while beautifying the landscape.
Weeds Have Style And Beauty Too
Weeds like dandelions with bright yellow colors can brighten up our gardens and yards. Allow these eye-catching weeds to grow freely and trim them occasionally to style them into patterns.
One example is to line them in a pathway or around flowerbeds or other features in the landscape. After some TLC, they can even become a part of the garden design. With the removal of some of the weeds, you will not only groom the yard but will create a wild yet beautiful and unique landscape.
Gardener's Station To Make Garden Magic
Liven up your lawn and garden with this imaginative DIY improvement. If you have an eye for finding unique items, create a gardening station by visiting local yard sales and secondhand stores. Old furniture can be easily repainted and transformed with a few simple steps. Use it to organize and store your garden tools and supplies.
Once your station is complete, set up a potting area to repot plants and flowers. Trimming your lawn with precision cutting tools will give your garden a neat look. Paint and elbow grease are all you need to get started.
Turn Barrels Into Mini Garden Ponds
Old whisky barrels and storage containers can create mini ponds to encourage wildlife. Place the barrel in an area that gets some sunlight, fill it with water, and add lily pads. This will create a clean habitat for frogs, birds, and other animals to visit.
To add to the appeal, consider introducing some small fish. Keep the water clean and provide an area for wildlife to climb out of the pond, for example, a rock or old log. This project can help boost local wildlife and provide a pleasant home for small creatures.
DIY Plant Markers
This inexpensive DIY gardening idea is perfect for labeling vegetables and plants in any garden. Use old paint sticks or flat pieces of wood and write or paint names on them for easy identification. Place them near the base of each plant or vegetable so they are easy to find and read.
Not only does this help to keep your garden organized, but it also adds a personal touch to your garden. You can even get creative by painting different designs onto each marker. This is sure to add a fun and unique element to your garden.
Hang Potted Plants On Old Wooden Skids
Upcycle old or abandoned wooden warehouse crates to spruce up your garden. Hang them on walls and use them as planter boxes for growing plants. With imagination, these rustic crates can be used to create and maintain stunning gardens. You can paint them for a modern look or leave them as-is for a more rustic charm.
The possibilities are endless. Plant vines to create an outdoor oasis, or add artfully placed succulents for a unique touch. Whatever your preference, these wooden crates make a great addition to any gardening area.
Birdbaths Are Not Only For The Birds
Old bird baths as planters can be an effective way to add a unique flair to your garden. You can save money and utilize limited space by upcycling an existing bird bath into a planter. Drill drainage holes in the bottom and fill it with soil and your favorite plants.
To ensure proper drainage, place a layer of small rocks or pebbles at the bottom before filling it with a soil-potting mixture. Place in a sunny spot and water regularly, and you will create a cheerful, floral centerpiece in your garden.
Faux Grass Pathway
Using old carpet or faux grass to cover stone steps in the garden can improve any garden. You don't need to worry about mowing and watering. You can reuse old carpets or buy faux grass. Use them to cover the concrete stones with it for an impressive visual effect.
Not only does it look great, but it is also non-slippery in wet conditions such as rain or poolside. The fake turf will also endure all elements, so you don't have to worry about replacing it regularly. These options are a great way to improve any garden.
Enjoy The Fruits Of Your Labor In A Hammock
Nothing is better than finding a spot to relax in your backyard on hot summer days. Pull out your hammock and hang it from the trees, or set it up on a stand. To add enjoyment to your newly renovated or upgraded garden, recline in the shade to rest while listening to the birds and the leaves rustle.
Or, after hours of yard work, take a break in the hammock, feeling the breeze and immersing yourself in the calming atmosphere. Your garden can be a place you look forward to retreating and a place of escape from the outside world.
Lights Brighten Any Garden Party
String lights are an easy and affordable way to brighten up your garden. You can buy them from most home supply stores in various shapes, colors, and sizes. They are easy to hang since they often have hooks or clips and require little maintenance.
Fairy lights are great options for adding some sparkle to your backyard. You can hang them around trees, on fences, or even adorn a walkway. Lights offer an inexpensive way to liven up any garden instantly with minimal effort and cost.
Grow Fruits And Veggies In Pots
Urban dwellers can use their outdoor spaces to enjoy the benefits of growing their fruits and vegetables when space is limited. All that is needed is a few pots and some soil to create their mini garden.
Cherry tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, lettuce, and herbs are some of the best plants to grow in small pots. For best results, ensure they receive adequate light and water and use fertilizer when necessary. This will help you reap the rewards of delicious fresh produce without wasting space.
Become Your Plants' Personal Trainer
Some plants respond to pruning and can be trained to grow along a wall to preserve space while adding more life to a garden. Prune plants to encourage them to grow in the desired direction. Going upward or across, they can bring a bright touch of color and life to any outdoor space.
Plant training can require minimal upkeep compared to medium-sized trees and still bring the same atmosphere. Pruning and shaping your plants will not just help you save space, but the increased airflow and better sun access will also help them bloom regularly.
Upcycle Shutters As A Space For Plants
Reusing window shutters in the garden is a great way to save space and give the shutters a new purpose. Hang potted plants with the shutters to instantly transform your outdoor space. Attach them to a porch, fence, or the side of the house. This will create an eye-catching display that can be enjoyed year-round.
This is an effortless way to make the most of an item that would otherwise remain unkept or discarded. You can inject style and color into your garden using things that had other uses initially with some paint and creativity.
Conserve Space With Plant Stands
Reusing old furniture or buying plant stands are great ways to save space while organizing your garden. If you have a limited planting area, these can help you get the most out of your gardening space. Plant stands enable amateur or balcony gardeners to create an organized display of plants that can be admired from all sides.
Or, use your old furniture to create a terraced plant unit with different shelves. It's a great way to work with limited space while ensuring all your plants have adequate light and room to stretch their roots.
Over-The-Door Canvas Shoe Organizers For Plants
A great DIY garden tip beauty hack that can be achieved for pennies is repurposing canvas over-the-door shoe organizers as planters for vines and other similar plants. This is a great way to save space and bring out-of-the-box imagination into your garden.
Attach them to secure the bottom of the organizer with a few tacks to a wall or fence, and then plant the bottom of whatever you would like to grow in the pockets. It is an easy, cheap, and effective way to bring an exciting look to any garden.
Grow Shade-Thriving Plants
Gardening in low light or shade conditions can prove challenging, but all is not lost. Certain plants can handle and even thrive in these environments. Geraniums are beautiful flowering plants that are ideal for shady areas.
Many varieties flower in colors like pink, red, purple, and white. They are easy to grow and maintain, so they are the right choice for people new to gardening. With the right combinations of shade and watering, your outdoor space can come alive with blooms and greenery.
Match The Garden Furniture And Shed
Any garden of any size can be given a quick upgrade with the help of some paint. Garden and tool sheds can be painted to match outdoor furniture, and bright colors can be included to make the area seem more vibrant even on a cloudy, rainy day.
Paint transforms the look of an outdoor space quickly and relatively inexpensively. Plus, with the right colors, it can withstand the outdoor elements without much maintenance. With the right paint, even the most limited outdoor areas can be turned into a cheery, vibrant space.
Gravel Is Cheap And Useful
Gravel is a cost-effective way of adding illumination and character to landscaped areas. Use it to fill in areas usually left out of plans, such as a seating area or a walkway, making them appear brighter than other areas.
Landscape fabric can be laid under the gravel to help prevent weeds and anchor the things in place. Professional decorators may have specific tips, such as using a mix of larger and smaller pebbles, supplying appropriate edging, or using gravel to lend texture to areas.
Research And Get The Right Gardening Tools
Before you purchase soil and other gardening items, research the appropriate gardening tools needed to make your garden flourish. Planning and having the tools ready will save the time and money spent making multiple trips to the hardware store.
Investing in the proper tools for the job, including a shovel, rake, wheelbarrow, watering can, and other gardening items, will make your gardening experience easier and more efficient. Time and money spent upfront on the right tools will have rewards, so plan and get the hardware first.
Self-Sowing Plants Or Save Seeds
Saving the seeds from plants or planting self-sowing vegetation keeps money in your pocket and your person in the garden. Whether the concern is your budget or the level of your passion for having a green thumb, this DIY gardening idea is for you.
After hunting the seeds from a neighbor or friend, sew and let nature do the rest. Once they are nearing expiration, they drop pits without provocation. Flowers like meadow cranesbill, poppies, and verbena are examples of self-sowers.
Homemade Compost Containers
Making DIY compost containers or building dedicated boxes in the yard for composting is an ingenious way to enhance gardens. It saves money by avoiding trips to the store for pre-made compost but also gives a place to throw food waste.
With basic instructions, anyone can build these containers. Depending on the size chosen, this can help to break down food waste and provide a nutrient-rich soil amendment for the garden. Spend the saved money on other ways to increase the wow factor of your garden.