Here in beautiful North Idaho, spring has sprung!  It’s time to start evaluating that backyard and seeing what 2023 can bring.  Working with a small budget?  Never fear!  There are plenty of ideas to get you started without breaking the bank.  Here are some of my favorites:

Tip 1: Clean it Up

It’s amazing how far you can get with a weed whacker, lawn mower and hedge trimmer.  By tidying up the leftovers from last year (and any new undergrowth!), you can really see what you have to work with.  As you tidy up, evaluate whatever may not have made it through the winter, or may be showing their age.  Spring is a fabulous time for renewal (aka throwing out old things).  PRO TIP: I recently read an excellent article from the UK about not digging any more than is required.  As you are cleaning up, try smothering weedy areas with thick layers of cardboard instead of digging everything up.  It’s better for the local flora and fauna, as well as an excellent use of those Amazon boxes.

Tip 2: Grid it Out

As you work, define zones that you would like to create based on how you want to use your backyard.  You can map out areas for children to play, particular games, outdoor cooking or lounging.  As you start to note down these different zones, think about what each one will need, even if it’s just to get started.  PRO TIP: Select the ones that are most important to you, and plan on focusing your resources on them (at least for this summer!).  Your time, budget and effort will show more if you focus them in a single area instead of a little bit here and there.

Tip 3: Shop Creatively

This is always my favorite tip – there are plenty of ways to get the look you want on a budget by shopping second hand.  Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, garage sales and thrift stores are all great places to look.  And don’t forget want ads!  If you are looking for something specific, put it out there – someone may have just the thing, but haven’t gotten around to listing it yet.  PRO TIP: When the price is right, it’s easy to fall into the trap of buying “right now” items instead of the right items.  Look for quality pieces that will last, and ones you will love for a long time.  Temporary items add up to much large price tags if you have to rebuy them multiple times.

BONUS TIP: Something a business coach told me once has always stuck with me.  Her favorite phrase is “Done is better than perfect.”  Even if your backyard doesn’t look like the magazines, make it work for you and then USE IT.  If you wait for it to be perfect, or you have a larger budget, or to finish every project you will waste valuable enjoyment time.  Just get out in that backyard and enjoy the sunshine!