How can I transform my yard into something really nice on a budget?

Love your dog and the backyard! You need trees or shrubs and flowers. You can make flower beds or build a sitting area with a fire pit. You have so many possibilities.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-mfYpwmnmzw

If you need privacy then trees or tall shrubs will help hide your neighbors.

Containers with plants in them and a bit of yard art. Perhaps a bistro set on an outdoor rug.

Nana: you NEED some trees that will grow to eventually give you mature trees --- that will add value to your property.

Also... instead of flowers... why not plant a vegetable garden!!

I would certainly plant some trees along the back fence for some privacy.

Plant lots of trees and shrubs along the fence and add a fire pit

Hi NanaWells - Your yad is gorgeous! These are two articles that show how we took our small and sad deck and turned it into a gorgeous entertainment space complete with a pergola. Hope they help with some inspiration! Hugs, Holly

https://pinkfortitude.com/built-in-bench/

https://pinkfortitude.com/veranda-transformation/

You have a great foundation for a beautiful space. You need greenery! Trees and shrubs. These don’t have to be too expensive if your patient. You can buy them small which is more affordable.

Wow ! What a really , really nice space to work with ! You need plAnts , some shrubs and potted flowerd . Buy some bulbs each year , pick types that will multiply and come up each year ! They would look nice along your fence .

Landscaping. If you don't know where to begin, you might need to have someone come and give you ideas for plantings in your area. I would start with a hedge to disguise the fence and add some trees.

Can you plant some fast growing pines in the back along the fence. This will give you the privacy you need. Definitely add some bushes and maybe some flowers in a nice spot. Also maybe adding more concrete areas in the back or a seating area with a fire pit(on concrete or on grass). Surprisingly, you can DIY a concrete area...we did in our yard. Check out how yourself:

https://karupp-did.net/pour-a-cement-pad-diy/

Agree i landscaping would add height texture and color. It doesn't have to-be at once— but in stages to be gentle on the budget.

I would highly suggest contacting your cooperative extension. These offices are manned by volunteer master gardeners on site there waiting to answer the communities questions that know your local situation quite well.

Master gardeners are required to volunteer back designated hours ( plus continuing education) each year to maintain MG certification -this community outreach and education is their goal.

Best wishes in your gardening and landscaping adventures!

Trees at the back for sure. Do some landscaping in front of the stone wall. I'd start at the corners of the wall. You could use ornamental grasses and bushes. There are lots of plants with colorful foliage, Heuchera, Hostas, Burning bush, Weigelia. And look for shrubs with fall color like Viburnum and Sumac.

Wow, so much potential! I'd check with friends and neighbors, see if they have plants to split or check on Craigslist under the free section for free plants and trees, then lay out planting areas. Cute dog!

Wow your yard is beautiful. Check with your city/town to see if they have an arbor program. You may be able to get free or reduced trees. I would not plant pine trees, they make a mess. I am contemplating taking mine down, way too much clean up.

I would get some nice fruit trees, and put some beds near the fence. Get colorful plants. Put in a veggie bed.

Your yard would be perfect for a pool one day.

Hello, you already have a beautiful start with the retainer wall and second level! Also, you have a certain amount of privacy with your wood fence. You could jazz up your shed by adding some interest there with small perennials or shrubs. As someone else mentioned, your county extension agent could likel give you some ideas and provide you a list of trees, shrubs, and perennials that grow well in your particular area. If any type of pine trees grow well in your area, they will provide green year round & they grow relatively quickly, just don't plan them too close to your home or fence. Make a plan on paper first so you gradually get the plan completed and don't have to tear stuff out when you don't plan ahead. Here's some info that may give you some good ideas. I wish you luck on your partially blank canvas. https://www.hgtv.com/outdoors/outdoor-remodel/xeriscaping-basics-landscaping-strategies-that-save-water

That depends on what the budget is.....

Purchasing trees and other greenery can be pricey at the beginning, but if nurtured and maintained properly, can give years of service.

Re: Adrienne's comment

In my experience one of the most common mistakes that homeowners make in diy landscaping is planting way too much way too close to any fence.

Hi there,

Plant 5 trees of different kinds along the back / top area to block out your neighbours, without completely blocking their light. You need to make a plan on paper of the garden and then decide what the garden is to be used for, Relaxing, Kids playground,Fruit Growing, Veg, Flowers & Shrubs, etc. A good design can be obtained from a Garden Designer with a planting plan also, for you to carry out or done all or part for you. Otherwise use your plan to place the items or features you require in the best possible design to suit your needs. It doesn't have to be done all at once a garden evolves along with you and your needs. Enjoy the journey.

Buy a few books on the subject and you will get ideas.............