Backyard Oasis Ideas on a Budget
Spending time outdoors is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. However, creating an inviting outdoor space can be costly. If you're working with a tight budget, there are still ways to create a backyard oasis. One affordable option is to use potted plants to create privacy screens or define different areas within your yard. You can also add some personal touches with inexpensive items like string lights or solar-powered lanterns. For seating, try repurposing old chairs or benches, or look for affordable options at garage sales or second-hand stores. With a little creativity, you can easily transform your backyard into a restful retreat without breaking the bank. Let's check out some backyard oasis ideas on a budget.
Add some greenery:
Plants and flowers can add a pop of color and life to any space. If your backyard is lacking in greenery, consider adding some potted plants, garden beds or hanging baskets. You could also create a small garden area with raised beds or containers. Use your fence to make vertical gardens or herb gardens. The possibilities are truly endless if you are willing to think outside of the box!
Adding trees can provide much-needed shade on hot summer days if you have the space. Shade-loving plants such as ferns, impatiens, and hostas are also great options for shady areas. You can even plant them in a large planter for smaller areas.
Use groundcover plants that are usually less expensive and will take over a larger area.
No matter what type of plants you choose, be sure to water them regularly and give them the proper amount of sunlight for their needs. With a little TLC, your backyard will be blooming in no time!
Create a seating area:
If you're looking to create an inviting outdoor space on a budget, one of the best places to start is with your seating area. Outdoor furniture can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to get around that. For example, consider using repurposed materials like an old door as a coffee table or painting some old chairs with brighter colors, tree stumps are also an inexpensive way to recreate a new piece of outdoor furniture. You could also look for used furniture at yard sales or thrift stores. You could also make your own furniture using recycled materials. You can find many DIY project plans online for free or in your local library! If you're willing to spend a little more, Adirondack chairs are always a classic choice for outdoor seating. Paired with some colorful outdoor pillows, they can make even the most basic outdoor space feel like a true oasis. Another important element in creating a cozy outdoor space is an outdoor rug. It will help to define the space and make it feel more like an extension of your home. If you love to BBQ and have a dedicated space you may also want to have an outdoor dining area. You can look for used furniture on Facebook marketplace or garage sales and spruce them up with paint or an outdoor tablecloth.
Patio furniture can be fun and eclectic, add whimsy and personality with upcycled and mismatched pieces. With a little effort and creativity, you can easily create a backyard oasis that's both stylish and affordable.
Invest in outdoor lighting:
One easy backyard idea that can make a big impact is outdoor lighting. A String of lights are relatively inexpensive, and they can transform your backyard into a magical space. Whether you hang them from tree branches or drape them across a patio, they'll add a touch of romance and whimsy. And when the sun goes down, they'll provide much-needed light for activities like grilling and entertaining. This is a one of the easiest backyard oasis ideas on a budget.
Many different types of outdoor lighting are available, so it is crucial to choose the right fixtures for your needs. For example, path lights and solar lights from Glowgrounds are great for providing illumination along walkways and gardens. String lights and lanterns can create a warm and inviting ambiance for entertaining. And floodlights or motion sensor lights can provide security and peace of mind.
When selecting outdoor light fixtures, consider the style of your home and backyard. Choose fixtures that complement your existing décor for a cohesive look. And be sure to install your lights in a safe and accessible manner to avoid any accidents.
Add some water features:
Another great way to create an inviting backyard getaway is to add a water feature. The sound of running water can be very relaxing and provide a focal point for your space. This is one of my favorite backyard oasis ideas on a budget.
Many types of water features are available, so you should have no problem finding one that fits your needs and budget. Smaller options such as bird baths or bubbling rocks can be easily installed and maintained. If you have more space, you could install a pond or waterfall.
We actually bought a plastic rain barrel planter from our local hardware store for $16 and filled it with gravel and then added a solar fountain and our backyard birds absolutely love it. We have had so much fun watching the birds take their morning baths. A half buried stock tank is also a great option that is sturdy.
One thing to remember is standing water can cause bacteria and place for mosquitos to hatch. so make sure that whatever water feature you choose that you keep that in mind.
Be sure to do your research before purchasing any water feature. Some require more maintenance than others, and some may not suit your climate. However, with some planning, you can find the perfect water feature to help turn your backyard into a true oasis.
Consider adding some privacy:
If you live in a busy neighborhood or your backyard is visible from the street, you may consider adding some privacy features. For example, tall plants or hedges can provide visual screening, while fencing or lattice panels provide a complete barrier. A retaining wall can help you plant some shrubs at varying heights and give depth and dimension to your design. A paver patio with a pergola offers a place to hang some outdoor drapes or insect screens. With accent pillows in a variety of colors you have a real opportunity to create an inviting space that is suited to your tastes and personality. A pergola also offers the added benefit of a space to hang outdoor string lights for extra lighting. Some hanging plants here is also a great idea for some privacy. If you have a small backyard you can get creative with flower pots or something you can move as needed. Look at the size of your space and determine what you want to do in your space. What does your dream backyard have? A space for outdoor games? Comfortable seating? An outdoor kitchen? Having a budget and an idea of what you will be doing in your outdoor living space can help you find the right options and budget-friendly ways to create the perfect oasis. All of these factors will help you determine the best privacy for your space.
Use these backyard oasis ideas on a budget to get you started. We love watching HGTV, checking out books at the library and browsing the aisles of Home Depot for inspiration. Make sure whatever you choose for your space is uniquely you and makes you happy!
