For many homeowners, a bright and spacious garden full of flowers, greenery, and other features is a dream come true. Sadly, the reality is that most of us will just have to make do with our small yards, and this is especially true with modern suburban life. However, just because we have to accept that reality doesn’t mean we have to let our yards look drab and uninspired. There are ways to maximize that modest space and upgrade our yard’s look.
Install a water feature
Having a water fountain installed in your yard may sound excessive and intimidating, but in reality they’re simple and uncomplicated set pieces that can really enhance a yard’s look. If you’re worried about it taking up too much space in your garden, there are many smaller models available that offer the same effect but is much more economical in terms of space—as well as in terms of budget. An example of this is a small wall fountain for the garden, which not only runs on a very small compressor but also only needs a relatively small amount of water to work.
Use tall plants to enhance your yard’s vertical space
Our yards may be constrained in horizontal space, but vertically may be a different matter. If there isn’t anything that can limit just how high your garden can grow, such as existing structures or perhaps your neighbor’s fencing, then planting tall plants and trees around your yard is a great option to help make it look bigger and grander. Fruit-bearing trees are also a wonder to see in small gardens, not only to add more color as the seasons roll in but also to give you delicious, home-grown treats to enjoy every now and then.
Construct keyhole plant beds
Flowers and other colorful plant life are wonderful in giving life to a garden, but too much in a small yard can make things look disorganized and overblown. However, by making u-shaped keyhole gardens in strategic places around your yard, you can maximize your limited space while still enjoying the colorful effect that live plants can have in any space. This also allows you to diversify the plants you grow—one keyhole garden can have flowers while the other can have herbs for the kitchen, and so on.
Give your deck a new look
If you have a deck or porch overlooking your yard, chances are, it could use a good cleaning. Take this chance to give it an entirely new look, either by painting it with an entirely new color or even just giving it a new coat of protective stain and a thorough cleaning. As for the cleaning process itself, while a power washer does make the entire process faster and easier, experts say that it can be too rough on wood—especially if your deck’s been getting on in years. Scrubbing with oxygenated bleach as well as a thorough round of sanding is better for your deck in the long run.
Revitalize your outdoor furniture
During your yard upgrade, you may be tempted to replace your outdoor furniture with newer, stylish models. If you have the budget for it, it’s definitely a solid move to make in giving your yard a new look. However, if you’re looking to save some money or you just can’t bear the thought of tossing what you already have installed in your yard, then simply treating them to some restorative work should suffice. Use a wire brush to remove flaking paint and rust from metal furniture, while those made of wood can be freshened up with a mixture of turpentine and boiled linseed oil-mix. From there, re-stain them to the shade you want with an oil-based varnish or shellac.
A great-looking yard doesn’t always have to involve a lot of space. By carrying out the above steps, not only will you be able to give new life to your yard, but also make it more attractive and appealing to look at in the long run.