Considering an overhaul of your outdoor space, but not sure where to start – or how much you’ll need to spend?
Your backyard, while often neglected, can be an incredible space to entertain, kick a footy or take some time out to relax in nature.
With minimal funds and a few days work – you can create a space for everyone to enjoy.
The first things to consider are your skills – what do you bring to the table, which mates can help and where do you need a professional to step in? You also need to think about your budget – where you need to save and where you need to spend.
And of course, you need to consider your priorities for your outdoor area. Do you want low maintenance, or are you a green thumb? Do you want it to be an area designed for entertaining, with a firepit? Or for activities, with a basketball hoop or a soccer net?
Map out these basic things before you get started. And when you’re ready to start planning – these DIY garden landscaping ideas might help!
Make a conscious plant selection
While it may be tempting to select the attractive plants that make the perfect ‘statement’ piece, it’s best you aim to match the types of flowers you’ll be growing with the space – and the environment they’ll be growing in.
Light, soil requirements, rainfall and temperatures should always be considered before deciding which types of flowers to plant in your yard.
The goal is to have trees or shrubs that flower throughout spring and summer, drop foliage in autumn, and have a good structure in winter.
You can use a post hole digger to plant trees and shrubs. It is also great for use when building retaining walls.
Consider the best use of space
Going back to your priorities and what you want to use your space for – consider the best way to make them happen, while using your space to its fullest potential.
Building a small deck is a great way to set aside space for seating – and provide some undercover area. It allows you to create a comfortable entertaining space, with level ground that is aesthetically pleasing.
Installing modular decking is something you can do yourself – with the right tools! Don’t forget to prep the site, you may need to use a plate compactor to compact the soil and ensure a smooth surface quickly and efficiently.
Don’t forget to look into the environmentally friendly timbers! Composite decking can be made out of recycled plastic. It is long lasting, easy to maintain, and is termite resistant.
Treated pine sleepers can also be a great addition. They help shape backyards of all sizes while providing a natural, earthy look. These are versatile, easy-to-use and hard-wearing. You could use them to build flower beds or create a border along your garden, which will help to bring definition to your space.
Pavers are also a nice look, when used to create a small walking track, or to designate a seating area. They are not too expensive and easy to lay.
If you need to remove any trees or stumps that are below ground level to create these spaces, make sure to use a stump grinder.
Use the principles of landscape design
Without getting too fancy – you may want to do some very basic research around design principles, just to make sure you achieve a good balance.
We’re talking things like scale, variety, texture, colour and line sequence.
You don’t want things that will clash, or mess with your overall vibe.
It’s worth laying out your landscaping ideas in a rough design first, so you can get an idea of what it might look like visually before you get started.
Safety first for DIY landscaping – always
The most important thing to remember when doing your own landscaping is that safety is always the most important factor – not price, or time.
Don’t take the easy way out or cut corners at the cost of safety. Know your limits and hire an expert where needed.
Consider the safest option when it comes to your tools too – for example, a long-reach pole pruner is great for pruning, trimming and cutting those hard to reach branches, rather than stretching yourself too far on the ladder!
See our full range of garden and lawn care equipment, to make sure you have the right equipment for the job.
