First impressions matter—and for many homeowners, creating a warm, inviting, and well-designed landscape is a top priority. But achieving a lush, polished yard can often feel out of reach, both in terms of time and budget.
The good news? Curb appeal doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. We spoke with two landscape designers to uncover their favorite simple and affordable ideas to transform your yard’s look and feel this summer—without sacrificing personality.
1. Plant Perennials and Native Plants
Plants are a great place to start when adding color, texture, and interest to your yard. Perennials and native plants are especially cost-effective because they come back year after year, offering long-lasting beauty and sustainability.
These low-maintenance plants are adapted to your region’s climate, which means they typically require less water and are more resistant to pests and diseases—cutting down on upkeep while adding vibrant, natural charm to your garden.
2. Mulch Garden Beds
Another plant-focused upgrade is mulching your garden beds, which can quickly boost your yard’s appeal while helping your plants thrive.
Mulch is a budget-friendly way to give your landscaping a finished, intentional look while providing contrast between pathways, plants, and bed areas. It also locks in soil moisture and suppresses weeds. Organic options like bark, wood chips, or compost can even enrich your soil as they break down.
3. Define Edges
Once you’ve added eye-catching plants and mulch, take your landscape to the next level by clearly defining garden edges. This technique helps separate planting beds from surrounding lawn areas, walkways, or driveways, giving your yard a clean and structured look.
While some edging materials can be pricey, there are plenty of low-cost options you might already have on hand—like bricks, rocks, stones, or river pebbles. These small details can make a surprisingly big impact on the overall design.
4. Add a Tile Pattern
Landscaping isn’t just about plants. The overall curb appeal includes patios, porches, walkways, and how your home ties into the outdoor space.
Try adding patterned tile to your front porch for an instant visual pop and a more welcoming entry. You can coordinate tile colors with your front door paint, surrounding flowers, or the tones of your natural landscape to create a unified, eye-catching aesthetic.
5. Impactful Outdoor Lighting
Lighting is another must-have element when updating your outdoor space—and one that doesn’t have to break the bank.
String lights are always a go-to for creating instant ambiance, whether you’re hosting guests or simply relaxing in the backyard. Consider using solar-powered lights, which are easy to install and come in a variety of styles. They’ll help you create a cozy, inviting atmosphere for evening gatherings without adding to your energy bill.
6. Small Water Features
Adding sculptures or water elements to your yard might sound expensive, but even a little can go a long way.
Features like a small fountain or a birdbath can act as peaceful focal points. Many DIY options are affordable and simple to assemble. The sound of trickling water adds a soothing, spa-like quality to your garden—without a major investment.
7. DIY Planters and Garden Art
Affordable landscaping isn’t just about plants and pathways—it’s also where you can inject the most personality.
Get creative with DIY planters using painted pots or repurposed items like wooden crates. Handmade garden art, such as painted rocks, mosaics, or upcycled sculptures, adds fun and charm to your yard—and you can craft them on a tight budget.
By combining creativity with smart choices, you can revamp your landscape this summer without spending a fortune. Whether it’s a pop of color, a new texture, or a touch of whimsy, these small upgrades can make a big impact.