Backyard Landscaping Ideas - Easy Ideas For Breathtaking Backyard Landscape

Is your home backyard dull and boring to the eyes? Then it needs some major remodeling. If you are really interested in redeveloping a backyard into a beautiful landscaped garden then there are some easy steps involved that can do this quickly.

Many people think that developing a garden in the backyard is an expensive affair. But it's really not. With a few basic landscaping elements you can have a dull backyard converted into a soothing green area where you can enjoy quality life with your family members.

What you can do is convert the whole backyard area into smaller areas and start visualizing it for redevelopment. If the idea of managing the complete area frightens you then let's deal with this one step at a time. Each individual area can be a grid of simple rectangles or squares running across and along the backyard. The lines forming the grid can become pathways to move into internal areas.

Once the pathways have been finalized you can visit the local nursery store and simply ask for help. Ask the expert their to give you a list of the following types of plants with their costs.

1) Lawn beds

2) Shrubs along the pathways

3) Flowerbed plants

4) Crawlers

5) Trees

Also ask about their specific requirements such as shade loving/non shade loving, the quantity of water they require etc.

The next steps involve locating the positions of these plants in the garden layout. You can use chalk powder to do this you in less than an hour. While finalizing the plant positions make sure to use some creativity and use colorful plants that will create a wonderful display of colors when they bloom. Endless options are available for you to choose from in this planning stage.

Walkways cab be built with a variety of materials such as:

1) Gravel

2) Tiles

3) Stone tiles

4) Bricks with interlocking arrangements

5) Plain sand

If you are ready to spend some money even planting a pond or a fountain a good idea as this will greatly enhance the visual quality of your garden. Having statues in you garden with built-in lighting arrangement is another great idea to go for.

Try to cover most of the area with green cover to keep the surrounding cooler. If you don't want to experiment too much on plat types then a simple lawn with flowering plants in the periphery is also a good idea. The lawn can have a central paved area with a coffee table and probably an umbrella to cover it.

This can become a favorite place to have morning tea and some chat with your family members. if space allows a small area with swing set or a seesaw can be installed so that kids are happy too.

Thus simple visualization can easily transform a dull backyard landscaping ideas into beautiful retreat of your own. With careful planning and little professional help this should not be an expensive affair too.

Peaceful Backyard Landscape Design Ideas

Life can be pretty chaotic: our jobs, our homes, and our families can make a lot of demands on our time. But one of life's most soothing resources can be found right in your own backyard. Landscapes that provide a feeling of peace and tranquility are not only beautiful - they're good for the soul, too. And when it comes to creating a space that's right for your needs, there are literally hundreds of backyard landscape design ideas to choose from. Why not try some of these?

· Butterfly Gardens: What's more beautiful than a butterfly? From the very beginning of their lives, butterflies remind us of renewal and rebirth - and they're absolutely gorgeous to behold. Planting flowers and herbs (like inexpensive marigolds and oregano) can attract butterflies to your space, which makes butterfly gardens good landscaping ideas for small backyards, too.

· AromaGarden:People are very sensitive to smell - more so than you might think. (That's why so many spa treatments involve scented water.) Those in need of inexpensive backyard landscape design ideas would do well to go for smell over sight. Lavender, jasmine and thyme make wonderful additions to backyard landscapes, and can be combined with the flowers and plants already in bloom.

· Fire Pits: Not all backyard landscape design ideas have to include flowers. For those with more space, installing a fire pit is a wonderful way to create a cozy outdoor living area. Natural stones, like Bluestones, fit well with all backyard landscapes, because they can be as conspicuous or as subtle as you'd like. For those who are watching their budgets, concrete or bricks can create a more modern feel.

· Water: Not everyone can have a babbling brook in their yard, but installing a fountain or koi pond is a great second choice. And because fountains and ponds come in all shapes and sizes, they're an ideal part of landscaping ideas for small backyards. If you have more room - and more of a budget - consider hiring a contractor who can install a small waterfall in a larger pond. You may even attract birds, such as ducks and storks, looking for a quick dip (or a quick bite to eat) during their migration to other places.

· Rounded Patios: Why do we always assume that patios must be square or rectangular? Most things in nature have rounded edges; maybe your backyard landscapes and hardscapes should, too. Rounded patios look best with rounded furniture, which invites intimacy and conversation. You could even install a water structure, fire pit or stone table in the center of the circle to create symmetry. For those who want to feel a little more "at one" with the world, a small Zen garden can be placed at the center of the circle or all around it.

· Hedges: If you have a larger budget - and larger outdoor space - consider filling it with larger shrubs and trees. Hedges are wonderful for backyard landscape design ideas that are aimed towards creating privacy in a natural way. They create natural fencing, thus cocooning you in your outdoor living space. If you want something a little less severe for your backyard landscapes, you can use bamboo instead of trees: it's a hearty plant that grows quickly, and can create a warm and inviting space.

Landscaping ideas for Small backyards

If you don't have a larger yard, don't worry: you can create some amazing backyard landscapes in smaller spaces, too. You may want to consult a contractor before you start digging up your yard, though: sometimes even the best backyard landscape design ideas can become overwhelming in smaller spaces, and sometimes smaller pieces go completely unnoticed. What's most important about your backyard landscape's design are ideas that work with YOU. You don't want to choose flowers or stones that look out of place in the area where you live, so make sure to do your research before starting any project.

Using Backyard Water Features in Your Garden Landscaping

How could you convert a featureless, boring backyard into a stunning work of art? A water feature is a great option. Get hold of some water feature ideas and see which one would be best for your yard. You would be amazed at the difference it will make to your property. It can create a peaceful and tranquil space for you to relax in. Here are some options:

Ponds

Although ponds would require some work, you should manage very well if you have a good video guide to follow. You should be able to find a DIY kit at your local garden or home improvement store.

Decide on a suitable location for your pond and dig the required hole. Be very careful when deciding on the location of your pond. Once you've dug the hole and established your pond, it'll be difficult to undo it. Ponds are usually not very deep but it will still be a tiring job to excavate all that soil.

Next, you'll need to insert a pre-shaped, hard plastic liner or a flexible pond liner. Add a suitable pond-filtration system and some attractive rocks for some interest. First treat the water before adding any fish or aquatic plants.

Fountains

A garden fountain is an easy water feature to add to your yard. The majority of home improvement or garden supply stores will stock do-it-yourself fountain kits. There is a large variety available on the market, including wall-hanging fountains and free-standing styles.

To install your fountain, you'll just need to position it, put in some water and turn on the pump. If you want to make your own fountain, you could find a couple of old pots and some plastic tubing. A simple water pump will complete the picture.

Waterfalls

To bring some special interest to your pond, why not add a small waterfall? It's a bit more complicated to install this so it might be a good idea to do a little research first. An experienced landscaper will give you some professional advice on how to plan the water flow.

A waterfall could also be added to your existing swimming pool landscaping. It would make it much more appealing.

You've seen that there are many ideas for backyard water features. With so many possible designs available, it can be difficult to decide which idea would work best for your home. Make a note of your preferred ideas and choose the one that best suits your landscaping knowledge and budget.

Landscaping - Simple Front Yard Ideas

Designing a landscape for your front yard will greatly differ from the backyard, because they serve two completely different functions. The front yard is where people come in and leave; it should thus be the most striking and most accessible area.

What makes a front yard extremely interesting is walkways and pathways with features and designs around it. It seems intriguing and inviting. The front yard should not be elaborate, but simple and uncluttered. Invite people in by letting the main walkway lead straight to the front door. It could be soft and curvy, but not too elaborate as to confuse guests. Frame the front of the house and door by placing smaller plants next to the entrance. You can also try and "soften" the front view by using vertical shrubs and plants and by pruning plants regularly to keep it neat. Grass can add immediate texture to a garden and there are many varieties and colours of grass that are bound to compliment your overall design.

You can also create a "container garden" at the front door with different coloured flowers flanking out in different directions to compliment the colour of the front door and house. Use evergreens that are low maintenance and that will create a year-round welcoming atmosphere. If you have a long driveway or cul-de-sac, create a successful transition between driveway and front door. Pocket gardens with flowers, as well as boulders will break the monotony and create this transition.

Garden furniture is not restricted to the back yard; you can easily incorporate small aluminum or wrought-iron tables and chairs near the front door with umbrella. This will look welcoming and even festive. Adding coloured gravel or mulch underneath will add character. The best option regarding plants and flowers is to use one type of shrub throughout and to stick with one colour, but in different shades when choosing flowers. You can also use arbours, trellises and even a garden sculpture to break the single height of plants and create a second focal point.

Connect the front and back yards with flowing shrubs and flowers on the side of the house. This will lead guests in a specific direction. You can easily create an interesting "island" in the middle of a large front yard by placing mounds of dirt, ground and gravel on large pieces of newspaper (which keeps weeds down). Add shrubs and perennials and create a perimeter with old bricks and stones. You should definitely incorporate trees in all sizes, but take care to not go overboard. Large, dense trees can easily hide or overwhelm a house when it should actually be framing the house.

Light up the house and yard with solar-powered garden lights. These will provide security and are perfect for creating a welcoming, secure atmosphere if you decide to entertain guests at night. These are easy to install and require little maintenance.

Are you ready to turn your outdoor space into a natural haven of beauty and tranquility? Do you want to be the envy of the neighbourhood? Download your copy of landscape Design: The Road to a Beautiful Surroundings now and turn your garden into paradise!

Hillside Landscaping Ideas - Great Backyard Landscape Ideas

Do you have sloped land in your yard? Does it make an eyesore to you and to the neighborhood? Well, you can create a beautiful and outstanding scene out of it by the art of landscaping.
Landscaping is such a creative but challenging work to be accomplished. And it will be more challenging if the landscape is to be done in sloping land. It needs some extra effort and devoted time because the problem regarding soil erosion is needed to be solved and the inability for the water to be held.

Using your creative and imaginative minds can transform the bare hillside into an eye catching and attractive hillside landscape. Just do not be afraid to try out new ideas to make your hillside landscape a great work of art! And of course, just have fun! This is important so that you will not get bored as you create your personal design.

But how to transform the bare hillside into a haven getaway?

Here are some hillside landscaping tips.

First is to clean and manage your area. Unnecessary things such as garbage and weeds must be taken away before you start landscaping your sloping land. This is important to make sure that redundant works are eliminated.

Second is to solve the soil erosion problems. Since you are about to landscape an area which is very susceptible to soil erosion, you need to deal with it first to avoid the damage once you get your landscaping started. You can do this by planting shrubs and covering the land with mulches. Mulches are not only functioning to reduce soil erosion but to protect the plants as well when cold weather approaches. It also helps in maintaining good level of moisture in your land.

Third would be to bring features that would interest you and the passersby. Bringing in interesting elements in your hillside landscape will give a different impact in your hillside landscape. In addition, this will be used as your personality reflection.

Fourth is to set up retaining wall. This is done to put extra security to the sloping land. However, the wall that will serve as a security wall must not ruin the entire looks of the hillside landscape but rather add first-class looks and styles to it. On the other hand, additional resources and help should be applied when needed.

Fifth is to have a list of all things that you will need in starting your project. This will eliminate the chance of having difficulty of getting this and that once the actual landscaping has begun.

And finally, when designing your hillside make it an attention grabber. Make sure that the features and designs are visible even at some distance. In this way, member of the public who happens to passed by would think greatly of the scene that they have viewed form garden even from afar.

It is really a good thing that you are able to transform any rough and bare land into a beautiful and most rewarding surrounding for you, your family and your neig hborhood by just making use of your imagination, originality and innovation. In addition, commitment and time will make the best out of your landscaped garden.

Three Backyard Landscaping Ideas Even a Novice Landscaper Can Implement

Getting the look of a beautiful backyard can be a challenge to even the most gifted gardener. However, there are several techniques that you can use that will give your yard a look of splendor with little effort. If none are popping into your mind, don't worry. Here you will find some of the more commonly overlooked ways to make your backyard interesting and inviting.

One of the best ways to shape and mold any backyard is to incorporate the use of deciduous trees into your backyard landscaping ideas. They will instantly increase the natural beauty of your yard and their hardiness allows them to hold their color in even the coldest regions of the country. Evergreens are another great plant to bring into the scheme. These spectacular trees can easily grow into a wonderful wall of lushness. Their inviting tone will inspire a feeling of welcoming to any yard. And these trees look great throughout every season.

Having a sense of togetherness and fullness in your yard is key to maintaining that overall look of lavishness. Both the evergreens and deciduous trees will accomplish this. There are many other types of trees and shrubs that you can add to your backyard landscaping ideas that will stay green as well. Check with a landscape professional, or go to your local nursery. Any of these people will be able to advise you as to which trees will work best in your area.

In the southern states, palm trees can be placed in such a way as to provide privacy and beauty. Arborvitae, in the northern regions look magnificent when they fill in. And both of these trees require little to no maintenance. Remember too, that flowering trees and bushes will stand out beautifully against these backdrops if positioned properly. Make sure you know the maximum height and width your plants will naturally grow to, and do not plant them too close together.

Hardscaping, using rocks and other non-living elements, is another great backyard landscaping idea. Natural rock walls can be found in many yards in the north, and even manufactured rock can be placed strategically in southern gardens. By placing an arbor or trellis with beautiful flowering vines in between the deciduous plants, you can create a whole new sensation and purpose to a row of hedges. Adding these simple touches to your yard will maintain its appeal and will keep your eyes from getting bored.

The use of fences is another great way to break up the boredom of some backyards. A fence separating a row of hedges and non flowering plants can prevent the plants from getting lost in the greenery behind it. Fences, rocks and walls should never be left out of backyard landscaping ideas. These engaging elements add dimension and diversity to almost any yard. And once installed, the only work they become is a work of art.

Some Basic Backyard Landscaping Ideas

If you are a little bit stuck ideas when you are looking to landscape your backyard, then why not take inspiration from many of the natural gardens that you find around the world. Here are a few landscaping ideas that you could consider if you are a little bit stuck for creative thought.

One thing to do would be to create a tropical backyard. Any type of tropical backyard will be comprised of all sorts of different colours and shapes. Due to the fact that the tropics are known for heavy rainfall, it is also a good idea to install certain water features. The entire setup you create should be enough to attract some interesting wildlife and insects, just be sure that you do not attract anything unwanted.

You might also consider the option of a bamboo backyard. Bamboo is eternally green, and will maintain their leaves throughout the different seasons of the year. As the bamboo begins to grow too high, consider cutting them down and using the additional bits of bamboo to create sculptures that you can add around the garden.

Or how about a bonsai garden? Bonsais are potted plants that have small trees in them, and they originated in Japan. You should gather together many of these different miniature trees, and then arrange them within your garden so that it seems like you are walking through a miniature forest.

You can also create a cacti garden if you want to. Cacti are plants that will require the least amount of water, and therefore they will not require a great deal of maintenance whatsoever. You can get them in all sorts of different shapes and sizes, but just remember that they are very prickly and therefore may not be ideal if you have small children around.

All in all, these are just a few very basic ideas that you could consider when landscaping your garden.

Build A Beautiful Backyard Water Fountain

There are several methods you can use when it comes to building a backyard water fountain. They are made out of several different kinds of material such as copper, bronze, stone, fiberglass and steel. Building a backyard fountain is not a hard task, but it does call for a lot of labor. Many people enjoy the sound that comes from their fountains because they help to relieve stress or helps them to relax. People with allergies enjoy their fountains because they help increase the levels of humidity and decrease the amount of dust particles in the air.

One of the ways to build a backyard water fountain will be to use a small water pump placed in a small tub or over a liner. You can cover the liner using rocks and pebbles. Using a PVC pipe connected to the pump will cause the water to rise up out of the rocks. You can use rocks or pebbles to cover up your electrical lines. If you have a backyard water fountain that you purchased, the directions should let you know what size pump you will need. The pump may come with the fountain. Alternatively, you may dig a hole that will fit the shape and depth of your pond liner. You can select a shallow pond liner for this project unless you want to have a pond that is deep enough for koi or plants. You will need to be sure you remove any type of rocks or debris from the hole before you lay down your liner. Place your liner in the hole and make sure the liner is level with a smooth surface beneath it. Once you have the liner in place, the edges of the liner should be just above the ground's surface.

Most people use mortar to spread around the perimeter of the liner. You can place river rocks around the edges of the liner so that they will help your fountain blend in to your landscaping in a more natural way. You can also put other decorative items that may be appealing around the liner's perimeter. It is wise to keep your pets in mind when building your water fountain. You do not want them to think of the fountain as their backyard drinking source! It is a good idea to consider putting a small decorative fence around your fountain. You can cover up the pump with a nylon stocking. This will prevent any type of debris from clogging the pump mechanism. In order to keep the pump in place, you can attach it to a brick with a large rubber band. The stocking will go over the section that creates the fountain spray. Place the pump in the middle of the pond liner and if you need it elevated, you can use bricks for that. Before turning on the pump, fill the fountain liner with water. You can adjust the sprayer nozzle for your fountain until it is to your liking.