A $500 budget for your yard might not sound like much, but you’d be surprised how far it can go if you focus on the right projects. Smart landscaping—think native plants, efficient irrigation systems, or thoughtful outdoor spaces—can bump up your property value by thousands, and honestly, it just makes your place more enjoyable.
From easy DIYs like raised garden beds or string lights to bigger upgrades like fire pit zones or water features, your backyard’s got all kinds of potential. The trick is to stretch every dollar with clever plant picks, water-smart ideas, and a dash of creativity. Turn a plain yard into a space that’s hard for buyers (or guests) to forget.
FYI, we used AI to assist with the creation of some of the visuals in this article.
25. Create a mini pond with a waterproof liner and aquatic plants
A mini pond adds a peaceful water feature that’s surprisingly affordable—usually well under $500—and it really catches the eye.
Pick a waterproof container like a big planter, or dig out a little spot in your garden. Grab a tough liner—EPDM rubber or PVC works—to keep your pond from leaking.
Toss in some gravel and rocks for depth and texture. Not only does this look good, but it also gives critters a place to hang out.
If you can, fill it with rainwater—tap water’s chemicals aren’t great for pond plants. Try to put your pond where it’ll get some sun and some shade.
Add surface plants like water lilies (Nymphaea species) in aquatic baskets with heavy clay soil, and sink them into the deeper spots.
Around the edges, plant things like cattails (Typha latifolia)—they like shallow water and help keep the pond clean.
For oxygen, float some hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) in there. This way, you set up a mini ecosystem that attracts cool wildlife and needs hardly any upkeep.
24. Plant fragrant herbs like lavender (Lavandula) and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) near walkways
Line your paths with aromatic herbs for an instant sensory upgrade. Lavender and rosemary look great together and like the same conditions.
Both like well-drained, slightly alkaline soil and full sun. Give them space—plant about 18-24 inches apart so they don’t crowd each other.
Lavender needs at least 6 hours of sun. Water it deeply, but let the soil dry out in between. After it flowers, give it a trim to keep it bushy.
Rosemary likes sandy or rocky soil and hates wet roots. Once it’s going, you barely need to water it.
Fragrant walkways stick in people’s minds. Brush against the plants and you’ll catch a whiff of their calming scent.
Plus, you can snip these herbs for the kitchen, and they’ll help repel some pests while drawing in bees and butterflies.
23. Build a Stone or Brick Vegetable Garden Perimeter
Nothing makes a veggie patch look more “put together” than a tidy stone or brick border.
Brick raised beds last forever and won’t rot like wood. New bricks give a neat look, but old, reclaimed ones add character.
Mark out your bed with stakes and string, then dig a shallow trench—about 4 inches deep—for the bricks or stones.
Stack the bricks without mortar if you want to rearrange later, or use mortar for a permanent wall.
Stone borders look just as good, especially if they match your house or other landscaping.
Defined edges keep grass out and make it easier to mulch or add gravel paths. Maintenance gets simpler, too.
Materials usually run $300-500, but the boost in curb appeal and order can make your place look $2,000-4,000 pricier, at least in the eyes of potential buyers.
22. Add a compost bin to enrich garden soil naturally
A compost bin turns kitchen scraps and yard waste into black gold for your garden. It’s a simple way to boost your soil and, honestly, it just feels good to make your own compost.
Pick a partly shaded spot with good drainage, not too far from the house so you’ll actually use it.
Layer in browns (dried leaves, cardboard, paper) and greens (veggie peels, grass clippings). Aim for about three parts brown to one part green.
Every couple of weeks, turn the pile to let it breathe. Keep it damp, but not soggy.
In three to six months, you’ll have rich, crumbly compost. Mix it into your soil or top-dress your plants.
This natural boost means you’ll need fewer chemicals, your soil holds water better, and your plants just look happier.
21. Install window boxes with vibrant flowers on porch railings
Window boxes overflowing with flowers can turn your porch railings into the star of the show. It’s a quick, under-$500 fix that really pops from the street.
Try trailing flowers like petunias (Petunia × atkinsiana), lobelias (Lobelia erinus), or ivy geraniums (Pelargonium peltatum) for that lush, spilling-over look.
Petunias need full sun and well-drained soil. Water them, but don’t drown them. Pinching off dead blooms keeps them flowering.
Lobelias do better with some afternoon shade and like their soil moist. Pinch back if they get scraggly.
Ivy geraniums like sun and air flow. Let the soil dry a bit between waterings. Take off yellow leaves and old flowers to keep them healthy.
Use sturdy brackets so your boxes don’t fall off, and make sure there are drainage holes so your plants’ roots don’t rot.
20. Add Inexpensive Bistro String Lights to Enhance Ambiance
Bistro string lights are an easy way to make your outdoor space feel magical, and you can do it for under $100. The cozy vibe just draws people in.
Hang them from fences, pergolas, or deck rails. No trees? Try shepherd’s hooks or DIY poles.
Go for LED bistro lights—they’re energy efficient and tough. Shatter-resistant bulbs won’t break if the weather gets rough.
Drape the lights over seating or dining spots to carve out little “rooms” outside.
That warm glow from Edison-style bulbs gives your backyard a bit of restaurant flair. It’s a simple touch, but it really ups your home’s nighttime appeal.
19. Create a DIY Outdoor Chalkboard or Message Board
An outdoor chalkboard is a fun, functional touch for your yard. For about $30-50, you get a project that families and guests love.
Grab some exterior plywood, chalkboard paint, and a weatherproof sealant. Pick a spot on your fence or build a simple frame.
Cut the plywood (4×6 feet is a good size), sand it, and prime it for outdoor use.
Brush on two coats of chalkboard paint, letting it dry in between. Seal the edges with stain or paint to keep moisture out. Attach it to your fence with galvanized screws.
Add a little shelf for chalk if you want. Your giant outdoor chalkboard becomes a conversation piece and a spot for doodles, games, or messages.
It’s interactive, a little quirky, and shows off your yard as a place for fun—not just plants and patios.
18. Plant a butterfly garden with a mix of nectar plants
Making a butterfly-friendly garden is honestly one of the best ways to boost your curb appeal while helping out local wildlife. If you ask me, a thoughtfully planted butterfly garden catches the eye of buyers who care about sustainability—or just love a little magic outdoors.
Start with purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea). Just sow the seeds after the last frost in spring, give them some decent, well-drained soil, and keep them watered until they’re growing strong.
For a real showstopper, plant a butterfly bush (Buddleja davidii) as your centerpiece. Pop it in a sunny spot and prune it back in late winter. Its fragrant flowers are like magnets for butterflies.
Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida) is another must-have. You can sow the seeds right into the soil in fall or early spring. Once they’re settled in, they kind of take care of themselves.
Bee balm (Monarda didyma) likes a bit of shade and moist soil. Every few years, dig up and split the clumps so they don’t get overcrowded.
It’s smart to pick nectar-rich native plants for your region. Try grouping things in clusters of three to five—it just looks better and butterflies seem to prefer it.
Honestly, a butterfly garden gives you a beautiful, low-maintenance space that can help your property stand out.
17. Build a simple outdoor bench with cinder blocks and wood
A DIY cinder block bench is probably the easiest way to add extra seating to your yard without breaking the bank. You can usually get it done for under $30 and finish it in an afternoon.
Grab some standard cinder blocks, a wooden beam or a 2×10 board, and construction adhesive. Pick a flat spot in your yard where you want the bench to stay.
Stack the cinder blocks two high for a comfy seat, gluing each layer for stability.
Lay your wooden beam across the top. Sand it down so you don’t get splinters, and slap on some weatherproof stain or paint.
This simple outdoor bench design holds up well, even when the weather’s rough. It’s perfect for hanging out with friends or just enjoying a quiet morning coffee.
You can even tweak the length—just add more blocks or use a longer board. It’s a no-fuss way to make your patio or garden look and feel more inviting.
16. Add bird feeders and baths to attract wildlife and charm
Bird feeders and baths bring instant life to your yard. They’re a quick way to boost your property’s appeal for buyers who love nature or just want a livelier view.
Bird feeders attract diverse species if you fill them with good seeds—sunflower, nyjer, or a nice mix. Hang them about 10-12 feet from shrubs so birds have somewhere to dart if they get spooked, but you can still see them from inside.
Give feeders a good clean every month with a diluted bleach solution, and toss out old or wet seeds to keep the birds healthy.
Bird baths provide essential water sources for drinking and bathing. Shallow basins (1-2 inches) with a rough surface are best so birds don’t slip.
Place baths in partial shade with some cover nearby, but make sure you can keep an eye on them. Change the water every couple of days—nobody likes mosquitoes.
Wildlife-friendly gardens turn plain yards into buzzing ecosystems. Feeders and water features draw in not just birds, but butterflies and helpful insects too.
Set everything up where you can enjoy the view, but make sure it’s easy to reach for cleaning.
15. Install inexpensive outdoor curtains to create shaded retreats
Outdoor curtains can totally change the vibe of your patio or pergola, and you don’t have to spend a fortune. DIY outdoor curtains cost $15-$50 per panel, way cheaper than the $200-$500 you’d pay for the store-bought stuff.
Painter’s drop cloths from the hardware store work great—they’re tough and handle the weather.
Just measure your space, hang some curtain rods on your pergola or porch, and pick grommet or rod pocket styles for easy sliding.
Drop cloth outdoor curtains give you good coverage and you can paint or stencil them to fit your style. The neutral color goes with pretty much any furniture.
When storms roll in, take the curtains down and wash them every so often. Stash them inside for the winter if you want them to last longer.
These budget-friendly shade solutions add privacy and make your outdoor space feel cozier. Buyers who like outdoor entertaining will definitely notice.
14. Create a gravel pathway to define garden zones
A gravel pathway is a surprisingly effective way to organize your yard and add instant curb appeal. For about $500, you can carve out meandering paths that lead visitors to different parts of your garden.
Sketch out your path first. Mark it with spray paint, then dig down 3-4 inches deep and 3-4 feet wide.
Lay down landscape fabric to keep weeds at bay, then spread a 2-inch base of crushed stone for drainage. Top it off with 1-2 inches of decorative gravel in a color you like.
Wood garden borders or metal/plastic edging help keep the gravel where it belongs.
Mix in pavers or stepping stones every couple of feet for a more interesting look.
A good path naturally guides people through your yard and sets up separate spaces for eating, relaxing, or gardening. It’s a simple upgrade that makes your place feel more put together.
13. Paint an old fence or install decorative lattice panels
A fresh coat of paint can turn a tired fence into a standout feature. For $100-300, you can make a big difference in how your yard feels.
First, give your fence a good scrub and fix any broken boards. Prime bare wood so the paint sticks and looks even.
Pick exterior-grade paint that matches your home. Neutrals—white, gray, or natural stains—usually appeal to most people.
If you want something extra, install decorative lattice panels. They’re a solid, affordable upgrade. You can add lattice under decks or use it as a privacy screen for patios and gardens.
Lattice gives you partial privacy and a spot for vines to climb. Wood and vinyl lattice can be painted to fit your style.
Clean, well-cared-for fences and lattice panels show buyers you take pride in your property.
12. Use mulch strategically to reduce weeds and improve soil
Mulching is honestly one of the best $500 improvements you can make outside. Bulk organic mulch runs about $3-5 per cubic yard, so you get a lot of bang for your buck.
Mulch blocks sunlight and keeps weeds down, saving you hours of tedious work.
Spread 2-3 inches around trees, shrubs, and flower beds. Don’t pile it right against stems—leave about 6 inches of space so you don’t cause rot or attract pests.
Organic mulch breaks down over time and feeds your soil, boosting nutrients and helping good microbes thrive.
It also locks in moisture, so you water less—sometimes by as much as 30%. That’s a lifesaver during dry spells.
Try shredded hardwood, pine straw, or composted leaves. They break down slowly and keep weeds under control.
A nicely mulched yard just looks sharp and well cared for. The tidy look alone can make your property feel more valuable.
11. Add colorful perennial flower borders to increase attractiveness
Perennial flower borders are a fantastic investment for eye-catching curb appeal. With $500, you can easily create a border that could add $2,000-3,000 in value—at least, that’s what some realtors say.
Pick reliable perennials like Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia fulgida), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), and Daylilies (Hemerocallis). These easy-care plants bloom for ages and tend to multiply.
Plant them in spring or early fall. Dig holes twice as wide as the root ball, mix in compost for drainage, and space them out so they don’t get crowded.
Water deeply once a week for the first season. Mulch around them (2-3 inches) to keep in moisture and stop weeds. Snip off dead blooms to keep the flowers coming.
Colorful border plants frame your garden and draw the eye. Mix up the heights and bloom times so you get color from spring to fall.
Every few years, divide big clumps to keep them healthy and spread the beauty elsewhere in your yard.
10. Install a rainwater collection barrel to conserve water
A rainwater barrel system is a clever way to cut water bills and add a bit of eco-friendliness to your place. This simple weekend DIY project can really make a dent in your water usage if you stick with it.
Grab a 55-gallon food-grade barrel, a spigot, some screen mesh, and a few basic tools. Set the barrel below your downspout on something sturdy—think concrete blocks or a wooden stand.
Cut a hole in the top for the downspout. Cover it with mesh to keep out leaves and mosquitoes. Stick the spigot near the bottom so you can fill watering cans or buckets easily.
Installing a rain barrel system doesn’t take long—maybe an afternoon. But the payoff lasts. Just one inch of rain on a typical roof can fill your barrel several times over.
Use the water for your garden, washing tools, or even the lawn. This water conservation method helps you rely less on city water and keeps utility bills in check.
People looking to buy a home notice these little sustainable touches. A rainwater barrel is a small thing, but it shows you care about conservation and savings.
9. Set up a hammock with a freestanding frame for relaxation
A hammock with a freestanding frame instantly creates a spot to unwind—no trees or drilling required. It’s a flexible upgrade that can turn any patch of yard into a chill escape.
Freestanding hammock stands let you move your hammock around to catch the best breeze or shade. Change your view whenever you want.
Pick a flat spot with at least 8 feet of space all around. You want solid ground to keep things steady.
Frames made from powder-coated steel or aluminum hold up well outdoors. Most support 400-450 pounds and fit hammocks up to 15 feet long.
Hang your hammock with a gentle 30-degree dip for comfort. Proper hammock setup keeps things comfy—not too tight, not too saggy.
Toss on some weatherproof cushions or pillows. Maybe add a little side table for your coffee or book. Suddenly, you’ve got your own outdoor sanctuary.
Buyers love seeing outdoor spaces for relaxing. You can usually get a solid setup for $150-350, and it makes your yard look inviting.
8. Add a pea gravel patio for an elegant, low-cost seating area
A pea gravel patio is one of the most affordable ways to upgrade your yard—about $5 per square foot. These smooth, round stones look great in modern or classic spaces.
Dig out your patio area about 2-3 inches deep. Lay down landscape fabric to block weeds. Add a thin layer of sand for leveling, then spread pea gravel evenly.
The stones are comfortable to walk on and drain water well. Set up outdoor furniture or benches directly on the gravel to create cozy seating areas.
Pea gravel patios don’t need much upkeep. Give the surface a quick rake now and then, and add more gravel if it thins out.
Frame your patio with stone or wood borders for a finished look. The neutral tones of pea gravel blend with any furniture and add an elegant hardscape element that really boosts curb appeal.
7. Upgrade your lawn with drought-resistant grass seed
Switching to drought-resistant grass seed can save a ton on water and keep your lawn looking good even in dry spells. These tough grasses need less water and still stay green.
Tall fescue, buffalo grass, and Bermuda grass are some top picks. Kentucky 31 Tall Fescue significantly reduces water consumption and doesn’t look patchy.
Test your soil pH first and adjust if you need to—most drought-tolerant grasses like it slightly alkaline, between 6.0-7.5.
Plant in early spring or fall when it’s not too hot or cold. Spread seed evenly at about 2-4 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
Keep the soil moist with light, frequent watering for the first 2-3 weeks. Once the grass is up, water deeply but less often to help roots grow strong.
These professional grade grass varieties don’t need much fertilizer or pesticides. Spend $50-150 on seed, and you could add $2,000-5,000 in value just by having a low-maintenance, good-looking lawn.
6. Build a DIY Wooden Pallet Vertical Garden
A vertical pallet garden turns empty wall space into a spot for herbs, flowers, or even small veggies. It’s a budget-friendly project—usually under $50—and adds a lot of charm.
Find a heat-treated wooden pallet from a local business or warehouse. Most places just toss them out, so ask around.
Sand off any rough edges. Staple landscape fabric to the back and bottom to keep soil in but let water drain.
Fill each section with potting mix, starting at the bottom. Press the soil in, but don’t pack it too tight—roots need room to grow.
Pick compact plants like herbs, succulents, or trailing flowers. Plant them through the slats so roots get plenty of soil.
Mount your DIY vertical garden on a sunny fence or wall. Make sure it’s secure, especially when the soil’s wet and heavy.
Water from the top and let it trickle down. During hot spells, check daily—vertical gardens dry out faster than ground beds.
This space-saving garden solution works great for small yards or balconies and gives a boring wall some life.
5. Plant Native Trees or Shrubs for Low Maintenance and Curb Appeal
Native plants are a smart pick if you want a yard that looks good without a lot of fuss. They need less water, fertilizer, and pest control than most imports.
Low-maintenance shrubs can boost your home’s curb appeal without much effort. Just pick types that fit your local climate and soil.
Plant in early spring or fall. Dig holes twice as wide as the root ball but keep them shallow—no deeper than the pot. That way, water won’t collect and rot the roots.
Leave enough space between each plant—usually 3-6 feet, depending on how big they’ll get.
Water deeply once or twice a week for the first season, then cut back. Add 2-3 inches of mulch to keep moisture in and weeds out.
Prune lightly before new growth starts, just removing dead or awkward branches.
Foundation plantings can increase your home’s value by up to 7 percent. Native trees and shrubs add year-round interest and help local wildlife—win-win.
4. Use Solar-Powered Garden Lights to Brighten Pathways for Evenings
Solar pathway lights are a quick, affordable way to make your yard look magical at night—no extra electricity needed. They soak up sun by day and light up your walkways when it gets dark.
Just push the stakes into the ground along your path. No wiring, no hassle. Make sure each light gets 6-8 hours of sun for a good charge.
Put your solar-powered pathway lights about 6-10 feet apart for a nice, even glow. It’s a simple way to guide guests or just make the place feel cozy.
Line both sides of your walkway for best effect, or use a few to highlight flower beds or garden borders.
Wipe the solar panels with a damp cloth every month or so to keep them bright. Swap out rechargeable batteries every year or two if they start to fade.
Good solar lights go for $15-30 apiece and can really boost curb appeal. Creative solar lighting ideas can turn basic paths into eye-catching night features.
3. Add raised garden beds for growing vegetables and flowers
Raised garden beds are a smart way to spend $500 in your yard. They usually cost $200-500 to build and can add $1,000-3,000 in home value, give or take.
You can make beautiful raised beds with basic DIY plans or buy a kit if you’re not handy. The higher design saves your back and makes your garden look tidy.
Raised beds improve soil drainage and reduce weed growth. Fill them with a mix of compost, topsoil, and organic matter for best results.
Plant cool-weather veggies like lettuce, spinach, and radishes early in the season. Wait until after frost for tomatoes, peppers, and squash. Follow spacing on the seed packets.
Mix in some flowers around the edges—marigolds, zinnias, nasturtiums are easy from seed. Water regularly and toss on some organic fertilizer each month during the growing season.
Modular raised garden systems let you add more beds as you go. Start with one or two and build out your garden as you gain confidence.
2. Create a cozy fire pit area with affordable stone kits
A DIY fire pit turns your backyard into a hangout spot and can even bump up your property value. You can build a fire pit using inexpensive materials like stone, bricks, and pavers for less than $200—pretty doable, right?
Stone fire pit kits from home improvement stores are probably the simplest route. These pre-cut kits take the guesswork out and help you get that pro look without having to call in a contractor.
Pick a flat area, at least 10 feet away from anything flammable or overhanging branches. Mark out your circle and dig down about 6 inches for a sturdy base.
Lay down your first ring of stones, making sure they’re level and snug. Stack the next layers following the kit’s instructions—usually two or three rings high is plenty for safety and function.
Use stone or similar materials to outline the fire pit area, and toss some gravel around the edge for a finished look.
If you’re pinching pennies, individual bricks and pavers are often cheap or even free—check construction leftovers or online classifieds.
1. Install a Quality Drip Irrigation System to Save Water and Nurture Plants
A drip irrigation system delivers water right to plant roots, making it one of the smartest upgrades for your yard. It’s efficient, saves water, and can even boost your property value.
A basic DIY setup costs just a few hundred bucks, so it’s a solid choice for a $500 project. You’ll need a water source, filter, pressure regulator, mainline tubing, emitters, and connectors.
If you’re new to this, start with a simple one-zone system. Pick a flowerbed or two and try it out before going all-in.
Hook up the pressure regulator and filter at the water source. Run mainline tubing out to your plants, then attach smaller lines and space the emitters based on what each plant needs.
Plants get steady moisture right at their roots, which encourages healthier growth and uses less water than sprinklers.
Once you’ve got it set up, maintenance is pretty minimal. You’ll spend less time watering by hand, and your landscape will look tidy and inviting—not a bad way to impress buyers or just enjoy your own yard.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re strategic and a bit creative, your landscaping dollars can go a lot further. Here are some common questions and practical tips to help you get the most out of your budget.
What are some creative ways to enhance your yard on a tight budget?
You can make a big visual impact without spending much. Check out these 25 cheap landscaping ideas that focus on high-payoff features. For example, a mini pond with a waterproof liner can cost under $150 and totally change the vibe of a neglected corner.
Find a spot that gets 4-6 hours of sun. Dig 18-24 inches deep, line it with EPDM rubber, and add water plants like lilies (Nymphaea) or water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes).
Planting fragrant herbs along walkways is a win for both your senses and your kitchen. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) likes full sun and well-drained soil. Give each plant 12-18 inches and water deeply but not too often once they’re settled in.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is happy in sandy, alkaline soil and doesn’t want much water. Trim it back now and then to keep it bushy.
Can you suggest beginner-friendly garden projects that maximize value for minimal cost?
Building raised beds out of stone or brick gives your garden some structure and helps with drainage. This budget-friendly approach usually runs $100-200 per bed, but it makes a big difference visually.
Just set the stones or bricks on level ground—no mortar needed. Fill with good-quality soil and compost. You can plant veggies in rows or try a square-foot layout to get more out of each bed.
Window boxes on porch railings are another quick win for $30-50 each. Make sure they have drainage holes and use lightweight potting soil. Fill them with seasonal flowers like petunias (Petunia × atkinsiana) or marigolds (Tagetes patula).
Water window boxes daily during hot spells. Snip off dead flowers to keep them blooming longer.
How can I make my garden look attractive without spending a lot of money?
Focus on 13 cheap ways to improve your yard that lean on structure and color. Adding a compost bin for $50-100 is a game changer—your soil gets better, and you waste less.
Go for a three-bin setup or just use a wire enclosure in a partly shaded spot. Alternate green stuff (like grass clippings) with brown (like dry leaves). Turn the pile every month and keep it moist—not soggy.
When your compost is dark and crumbly, spread 2-3 inches around your plants or dig it into beds before planting.
Mass planting cheap annuals has way more impact than dotting single plants around. If you’re patient, buy seeds instead of transplants to stretch your flower budget.
What are the cheapest and most effective DIY garden ideas?
Starting seeds indoors cuts your plant costs by about 80% compared to buying transplants. A basic setup costs $75-100, and honestly, it pays for itself fast.
Reuse containers with drainage or get seed trays. Start seeds 6-8 weeks before your last frost date—works for most veggies and flowers. Give them 12-14 hours of light daily, either with grow lights or a sunny window.
When it’s time, move the seedlings outside after hardening them off for a week or so. Gradually increase their time outdoors to avoid shocking them.
Making garden paths with mulch or gravel costs just $2-3 per square foot. Edge with old bricks or stones for a tidy look that keeps people from trampling your plants.
What low-cost options do I have for starting a vegetable garden?
Stick with easy veggies to start out strong. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa), radishes (Raphanus sativus), and beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) all grow quickly from seed.
Sow lettuce seeds ¼ inch deep in cool weather. Pick the outer leaves when they’re 4-6 inches tall. Plant more every couple of weeks for a steady harvest.
Radishes are ready in about a month and help loosen up clay soil. Plant ½ inch deep, thin to 1-inch apart, and water regularly to keep them tender.
Bush beans don’t need a trellis and produce a lot in small spaces. Plant seeds 1 inch deep once the soil’s warmed up to 60°F. Pick pods when they snap for best flavor.
You know, where you put your plants actually matters—a lot. If you’re smart about it, landscaping improvements can bump up your home’s value by as much as 7-14 percent. Not bad for a weekend’s work, right?
Try planting some evergreen shrubs like boxwood (Buxus sempervirens) close to your foundation. They’ll give your yard structure all year, even when everything else is looking a bit sad. Just remember to leave enough space for them to grow, or you’ll be fighting a jungle later.
Grab a sharp spade or edging tool and carve out some crisp lines between your lawn and the garden beds. It’s surprisingly satisfying, and those clean edges make the whole place look more polished—without spending extra cash.
Also, group plants that like the same amount of sun and water together. It just makes life easier and keeps them happier. Why make things harder than they need to be?
