6 Cheap and Simple Front Yard Landscaping Ideas
Your front yard is the first thing that welcomes friends, family, and visitors to your home, so why not make it look great? If you’re worried about cost and difficulty, don’t! Landscaping your front yard doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated!
In this post, we’ll provide six cheap and simple ideas to transform your front yard into an oasis. From planting flowers and shrubs to adding walkways and decorative elements, we’ll show you how to create a welcoming and inviting space with minimal effort and cost. With these ideas, your front yard will surely become the envy of the entire neighborhood!
Idea #1: Plant a Low-Maintenance Garden
Introducing plants into your front yard can help bring charm and texture to the area. The plants you choose should be easy to maintain and preferably drought-resistant, so you won’t have to spend too much time caring for them. Be sure to check out your growing zone as well to ensure that the plants you pick will thrive in your climate.
When planting new plants, it is essential to ensure that you place them in suitable soil and give them appropriate watering. You will need to research the specific needs of each plant to give them the best chance of survival. It may also be a good idea to invest in a weed eater to keep the edges of your garden neat.
Idea #2: Create a Flagstone Path
A flagstone path is practical and aesthetically pleasing in a front yard landscape design. It gives structure and definition to the area while providing a durable surface for walking. Selecting flagstones that suit your garden or outdoor space is best. Flagstones in different sizes, shapes, and textures will help you create an attractive path that fits your overall garden design.
The first step in constructing a flagstone path is determining where it will go and marking the area. After this, you need to secure the stone with either sand or gravel, depending on the stone’s size. Be sure to pack it down securely, as this will help it stay in place over time. After that, you could add edging stones around the outside of the path if desired or simply leave it as it is for a more natural look.
Idea #3: Add a Garden Bench
Adding a garden bench can provide an inviting space for family and friends to gather for outdoor conversations or a place for you to relax alone and enjoy your garden’s beauty. You can find plenty of options for benches made from different materials at most stores or online retailers. Metal, wood, wicker, or plastic all work well outdoors.
Materials Needed and Installation
Depending on the garden bench you choose, you may need some screws or bolts and tools, such as a drill and screwdriver, for installation. This is why it’s important that your chosen bench comes with all the necessary pieces and instructions so you can follow them step-by-step when installing it.
It’s best to place your bench away from direct sunlight or rain. If neither is possible, try using an umbrella. Next, ensure that the surface you are installing your bench is level and secure; if not, use some cement or gravel underneath it before installing. After you find your spot, attach screws into pre-drilled holes and secure your bench firmly in place following any other instructions.
Idea #4: Install a Fountain
An outdoor fountain can bring peace and harmony and attract wildlife, such as birds, into your front garden. Plenty of options are available when selecting a fountain—from ceramic ones to stainless steel models—so be sure to select one that compliments your current design scheme and fits in with its surroundings. You’ll also want to consider factors like size (ensuring you have enough room for it) and power source (electrical or solar-powered) when selecting your fountain.
Idea #5: Install a Retaining Wall
Retaining walls are valuable landscape design components, providing leveled sections and visual interest to an otherwise flat front yard. They also serve as barriers to protect structures and gardens from rainwater run-off and erosion, which is particularly beneficial for hillside properties.
Apart from their functional purpose, retaining walls can enhance curb appeal by incorporating additional features like planters, flowerbeds, and garden fixtures. Building a retaining wall yourself requires large rocks, shovels, pickaxes, gloves, cement mix or ready-mixed mortar, stakes, string, and a level.
To begin construction, map out the placement of wall stones using string, stakes, and a level. Dig trenches deep enough to accommodate the wall stones securely, ensuring the cement mix doesn’t wash away easily. Fill the trenches with cement mix and lay the wall stones, repeating the process until reaching the desired height. Check the alignment by assessing the straight line from the bottom edge to the top edge and make necessary adjustments before finalizing the construction.
Of course, if this is too much work to do on your own, you could always ask for help from a handy friend or hire a professional.
Idea #6: Plant a Few Trees
Trees offer various benefits in front yard landscapes, such as providing shade in summer and acting as natural wind barriers in winter. When choosing trees, consider the available space and select small ornamental trees for limited areas. Deciduous varieties are typically a better option than evergreens, especially if there is more room to accommodate them without impacting entrances or the house.
Be sure to research local tree varieties suitable for the climate and soil conditions. Pay attention to the trees’ height, width, and leaf structure, considering available space and the maintenance of aesthetic appeal even after leaf shedding in autumn.
When planting, dig holes that are twice as wide and three times as deep as the tree’s pot size. Add organic matter to the bottom half of the hole to promote healthy root growth in the initial months. Place the roots in an upright position inside the hole and fill the remaining space with soil, compacting it firmly but gently around the trunk. Water the base area thoroughly after planting, ensuring not to overfill the hole as excess water can negatively affect long-term tree health.
Conclusion
Creating a beautiful front yard landscape doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. With these six cheap and simple front yard landscaping ideas, you can quickly and easily transform your front yard into an inviting and stunning outdoor space. Whether you choose to plant a low-maintenance garden, create a flagstone path, add a garden bench, install a fountain, build a retaining wall, or plant some trees, you’re sure to create a welcoming area that will make your home the envy of the neighborhood. So, let these ideas be your guide, and start transforming your front yard today!