What month should you start a garden?

The best time of year to start a garden in the United States is during the spring months. This is the perfect time to plant summer vegetables and annuals. The flowers will bloom through the spring, and the vegetables will be ready for harvest throughout summer and into fall. The exact time that you start your garden will depend on your specific location.

How do I prepare my garden soil for planting?

To prepare your garden for planting, add organic matter. The easiest and best way to do this is with compost or aged manure. Mix these into the soil for a nutrient-rich matter for planting. This will give your plants everything they need to thrive.

How can I transform my garden cheaply?

If you want to make a big impact, start small. You can make your budget go further when you have a smaller garden to work with. Add a small fence around your garden or update the current fence. Hang some string lights around or over your garden to enjoy it in the evening or at night. Add some chairs or a bench to give you a place to sit and enjoy your garden.

26 Easy DIY Garden Ideas on a Budget

“A single rose can be my garden… a single friend, my world.” – Leo Buscaglia

Building a garden in your backyard can be a rewarding experience. There’s nothing more satisfying than heading out into your backyard, picking your vegetables, and preparing a fresh meal with ingredients from your garden.

You don’t need to have an extensive farm; you just need a small garden with a few different types of vegetables. So set aside a weekend and get your garden started.

Whether you have a small or large space available, these DIY garden ideas will help you get started on your DIY garden.

1. Repurpose Rusty Items for Planting

For budget-friendly garden projects that blend creativity with resourcefulness, repurpose rusty items into charming plant displays. An old chair can become a striking statement piece with a fresh coat of paint, while collections of repurposed cans or stone sculptures add unique character to your garden.

Explore unconventional plant containers by turning kitchenware like old mop buckets or cut milk jugs into quirky pots for your plants. Embrace the beauty of repurposed goods to create a cost-effective and enchanting garden that showcases your green thumb and artistic flair.

Rusty funnel planter filled with green and white plants in a garden, with a pig statue in the background — Source: @crystaltrojek via Instagram

A tall, decorative planter with vibrant tropical plants and colorful leaves against a white wall in a garden setting — Source: @dragonflyfinds via Instagram

Rustic cabin with a wood and metal exterior, surrounded by lush greenery, pink flowers, a vintage plow, and an apple tree — Source: @vintagethruthyme via Instagram

2. Create Container Gardens with Egg Trays

Kickstart your garden by using egg trays to create budget-friendly seedling containers. Cut out individual egg-shaped compartments, providing excellent drainage for your budding plants.

For a touch of eco-friendliness, repurpose old bottles or cans into charming planters. These creative ideas not only maximize limited space but also stretch your budget while infusing your garden with a unique and resourceful aesthetic. Consider grouping these containers on a wooden shelf or a repurposed pallet for an organized and visually appealing garden display.

Small seedlings sprouting in a repurposed yellow egg carton filled with soil — Source: @ffiffiflowertots via Instagram

3. Craft a Budget-Friendly Bird Feeder

Maximize your small outdoor space by crafting a budget-friendly DIY bird feeder. Whether you have a balcony or a tiny garden, transform it into a wildlife haven with simple supplies like cardboard boxes or twigs, glue, and scissors. This project not only enhances your garden’s aesthetics but also nourishes local wildlife, bringing a touch of nature right to your doorstep.

To complement this bird feeder, consider adding potted plants or colorful flowers to create an inviting oasis for both you and your feathered friends.

DIY bird feeder made from a painted milk carton and sticks, hanging from a tree branch in a garden — Source: @galina_gnv via Instagram

Miniature wooden fairy house with a circular window, nestled among lush green succulents and foliage — Source: @what_up_gnomes via Instagram

4. Build an Outdoor Garden Bar

Enhance your outdoor gatherings with a charming DIY garden bar, a surprisingly simple project with a big impact. With basic DIY skills and readily available materials, you can craft an inviting al fresco hangout for friends and family.

Elevate the atmosphere by adding string lights or vintage wall art, transforming your garden into a memorable gathering spot. Don’t hesitate—start creating your perfect outdoor space today! To complement the garden bar, consider adding comfortable seating, potted plants, and an outdoor speaker system for a complete entertainment experience.

Backyard bar at night with illuminated wooden deck, rope railing, dartboard, and string lights on the fence — Source: @_inside_no_17 via Instagram

5. Craft Recycled Material Flowers

Crafting flowers from recycled materials such as craft paper, bottle caps, and fabric scraps is a budget-friendly way to add charm to your garden. For a pop of color, paint small terracotta flower pots and use them as planters to achieve a vibrant garden-like atmosphere in your outdoor spaces.

Embracing creative recycling allows you to enjoy unique foliage and blooms while keeping costs in check. With a touch of creativity and resourcefulness, you can set up an affordable garden, perfect for enjoying summer evenings in the beauty of nature. Consider adding complementary elements like mulch, pathway stones, and garden borders to enhance the overall look of your budget-friendly garden.

Garden scene with colorful wind spinners shaped like flowers and a bee, with various plants and flowers surrounding the potted decorations — Source: @andreaelleray via Instagram

6. Painted Pots for Stylish Planting

Transform ordinary plant pots into stylish, personalized pieces of art by adding your creative touch with paint and doodles. Customize each pot to match your garden’s theme or your personal style, giving your greenery a charming and unique home.

This budget-friendly DIY project not only adds a touch of personality to your garden but also creates a cohesive and visually appealing look when you group these painted pots together. To complement your painted pots, consider choosing plant varieties that harmonize with the colors and designs you’ve used, creating a harmonious and eye-catching garden display.

Clay pot painted as a person with shoes and a smile, placed on a brick wall with a green plant as hair, surrounded by foliage — Source: @nellytanguycreations via Instagram

A potted plant with long green leaves in a decorative red pot by a window — Source: @i.ckreate via Instagram

Three small, colorful pots with various succulents on a white windowsill, each pot painted with cactus designs — Source: @cigdemcolberber via Instagram

Colorful, large ceramic planter with plants inside a bright, modern indoor space featuring glass walls and a high ceiling — Source: @thefishinghamlife via Instagram

7. Craft Macrame Plant Hangers

Add a touch of creativity and boho-inspired charm to your garden without breaking the bank by crafting your own macrame plant hangers. These hangers are customizable in size, making them perfect for pots of all dimensions. Hang them outdoors to replace traditional planters or bring them inside for a whimsical, stylish display.

Incorporating macrame plant hangers is an easy and cost-effective way to enhance your garden’s aesthetics. To complement these hangers, consider using a variety of plant types and colors to create a lush and inviting garden space.

Hanging ceramic pot with a small red cactus, featuring blue, yellow, and beige stripes against a soft blue background — Source: @lizcohenceramics via Instagram

Hanging plant with small green leaves in a terracotta pot, suspended by a white macrame holder against a light blue background — Source: @thisisjoz via Instagram

8. Create Hanging Bamboo Planters

For an effortlessly picturesque budget garden, consider crafting your own hanging bamboo planters for trailing plants. Utilize thin and flexible branches from an old bamboo tree and readily available string, twine, or recycled wool to create your unique design.

Once you’ve constructed your basket-shaped planter, fill it with your favorite plants and flowers, enhancing the beauty of your garden space. To complement this DIY project, choose trailing plants with vibrant colors or cascading foliage to create an eye-catching display that adds character to your garden.

Indoor plants on wooden shelves illuminated by string lights and candles, creating a cozy atmosphere against a light-colored wall — Source: @momdadnkiddo- via Instagram

9. Coordinate Your Garden Pots

Don’t settle for a bland budget garden! Get creative by coordinating your terra cotta pots with a vibrant color palette that includes pinks, blues, and violets. Whether you’re enhancing an existing landscape or starting from scratch, these colorful pots can serve as captivating centerpieces for your garden makeover.

To maximize impact and personality, mix pots of different sizes and textures. These affordable decor pieces have the power to transform an ordinary outdoor area into a visually stunning garden retreat. Complement this design by adding colorful garden furniture or decorative garden stakes for a cohesive and inviting garden space.

A wooden table filled with various potted houseplants in ceramic and terracotta pots, featuring vibrant green leaves and foliage — Source: @sewwhatsupdoc via Instagram

10. Design a Stone Path Landscape

One budget-friendly DIY garden idea is to incorporate a charming stone path into your landscape. This can be achieved by laying down stones or pavers to create a walkway that adds both functionality and aesthetics to your garden space. To complement this design, consider planting small trees or shrubs around the path to create a cozy atmosphere.

Additionally, adding mulch can give your garden a rustic and inviting feel. For a touch of elegance, adorn your patio area with window boxes and hanging plants, transforming it into a tranquil oasis. With thoughtful planning and a willingness to experiment, you can achieve a truly stunning garden space without breaking the bank.

Modern garden with stepping stones, two lime-green chairs, and a small table on a patio; flowering shrubs against a wooden fence — Source: @clslandscape via Instagram

11. DIY Brick Fire Pit Setup

Crafting a budget-friendly garden can be incredibly rewarding. Begin by planning an inviting outdoor space with a brick fire pit as the centerpiece, surrounded by comfortable patio chairs. To set the mood, hang string lights or place lanterns around the area.

Enhance the garden’s atmosphere with strategically placed potted plants and small shrubs. Mix and match various types of tables and chairs to infuse personality into your outdoor oasis. Your budget garden will become a delightful retreat where you can relax and connect with nature. To complement the brick fire pit setup, consider adding cozy outdoor cushions, blankets, and a small table for snacks or drinks, ensuring your garden is both inviting and functional for gatherings and relaxation.

Four wooden chairs around a stone fire pit on a gravel area, surrounded by a lush green lawn and fence — Source: @joynerathome via Instagram

12. Install a Budget-Friendly Water Fountain

Add a touch of serenity to your garden by installing a budget-friendly water fountain. You can create a beautiful and tranquil space by choosing the right location for your fountain. Place it near a bird feeder to attract birds and make your garden come alive with their presence.

To further elevate the ambiance, consider planting colorful wildflowers around the fountain and strategically placing decorative stones for added visual appeal. By blending natural elements with your DIY fountain, you’ll not only be delighted with the outcome but also enjoy the influx of wildlife it brings to your garden.

Birdbath with a grey bucket of orange and purple flowers on top, surrounded by small plants and rocks in a sunny garden — Source: @ajgoold via Instagram

A stone sculpture with a circular hole, surrounded by greenery and rocks in a garden setting — Source: @raamaz_naturalstone via Instagram

13. Craft Tin Garden Sculptures

Revamp your garden without overspending by crafting your own tin garden sculptures. Give your garden a distinctive touch by repurposing tin materials to create unique sculptures, such as charming rabbit figurines made from soda cans and wire.

These handmade sculptures not only add artistic flair and character to your garden but also provide a budget-friendly way to personalize your outdoor space. Embrace your creativity and enjoy the satisfaction of crafting something one-of-a-kind for your garden without straining your finances.

White metal rabbit sculpture holding a pot, surrounded by lush green foliage — Source: @sageandserenityhomeinteriors via Instagram

14. Revive Vintage Garden Statues

Creating a dreamy garden on a budget is entirely possible by incorporating vintage garden statues into your design. Explore flea markets, antique stores, or thrift shops to discover unique and budget-friendly pieces that infuse your garden with an antique, timeless ambiance. Mix and match these vintage finds to infuse your outdoor space with character and sophistication without exceeding your budget. Remember, a budget-friendly garden can be both inspiring and whimsical when you find the perfect vintage elements to complement your vision.

Two stone statues bowing with hands together flank a pot containing a young palm tree growing from a coconut — Source: @shima_antiques via Instagram

15. Make Lounge Seating with Pallets

Enhance your budget garden by crafting stylish lounge seating using wooden pallets as a base, and then layering on comfortable pillows and cushions for ultimate comfort. This DIY project not only adds a touch of style to your outdoor space but also offers an economical way to maximize your garden’s functionality.

Your newly created seating area becomes the perfect spot for enjoying breakfast in the summer or hosting backyard dinner parties with friends. To complement the pallet lounge seating, add a small coffee table, potted plants, and outdoor lighting for a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making your garden the go-to place for relaxation and social gatherings.

Outdoor patio with gray pallet sofa, green and beige cushions, wicker table, and potted plants on wooden decking — Source: @tooposhfor via Instagram

16. Create a Unique Plastic Spoon Vase

Unleash your creativity in budget gardening by crafting a unique vase using disposable plastic spoons, clips, glue, and string. This DIY project showcases the endless possibilities for creative crafts in budget gardens.

Consider repurposing old ceramic glassware, boxes, or furniture found at flea markets to add character to your garden space. By letting your imagination run wild, you can transform ordinary items into delightful garden accents. To complement the plastic spoon vase, place it amidst a cluster of potted plants or use it as a centerpiece for your outdoor table, adding a whimsical and eco-friendly touch to your garden design.

Decorative planter with green shoots, a small vase with purple flowers, and vintage scales on a tabletop — Source: @my.2.homes via Instagram

17. Add Hooks to Hang Potted Plants

A budget garden can be both beautiful and enchanting with the addition of hanging potted plants. Craft your own unique tin pots with hooks, add a string of fairy lights, and experiment with DIY paint designs to instantly transform your outdoor space. This creative project is not only enjoyable but also budget-friendly.

Personalize your DIY tin pots with hand-painted designs or fill them with vibrant blooms for a burst of color. In the evening, the fairy lights will cast enchanting shadows, creating a magical atmosphere in your garden. To complement the hanging potted plants, consider adding a cozy seating area nearby and incorporating other decorative elements such as outdoor rugs and wind chimes, making your budget garden a delightful retreat.

Two mugs hanging from a pole, one is light green with black dots, the other is green and white with black sprinkles, trees in background — Source: @patriciabaradic via Instagram

18. Repurpose Box Containers for Plants

Budget gardening can be both inventive and affordable. Opt for container gardening to maximize limited outdoor space, and consider repurposed box containers as an opportunity for creating a unique garden.

Utilize materials like repurposed cardboard boxes or wooden crates to unlock endless design possibilities for your budget-friendly garden. With a dash of creativity, you can easily craft an attractive garden by repurposing boxes. Whether you find an old box in your garage or source one online, repurposing it for container gardening allows you to personalize your garden economically, adding a touch of character without straining your budget.

Purple and white flowers planted in a rustic, weathered metal container on a table, with a brick wall in the background — Source: @fionacumberpatch via Instagram

Open green suitcase used as a planter with various succulents, stones, and white gravel inside — Source: @pommykiwi via Instagram

Tiered garden beds with small plants, beside a black fence and a tree; sunlight casts shadows across the greenery and wooden structures — Source: @greengardensoul via Instagram

19. Utilize Large Water Jugs for Gardening

Unlock your garden’s potential on a budget by repurposing large plastic or glass containers into sizable plant pots. Fill these containers with soil from your local nursery to create an affordable and versatile gardening solution. Consider planting beans, peas, or colorful flowers and herbs to make the most of your newfound garden space. With a touch of creativity, you can transform these containers into thriving pockets of greenery, resulting in a vibrant garden that blooms beautifully during the summer months.

Seedlings sprouting in soil-filled plastic containers, with a large green leaf on the right and decorative items in the background — Source: @homegnomegardens via Instagram

20. Transform Old Tires for Rustic Decor

Don’t let budget constraints hold back your gardening dreams. Get creative by repurposing old tires into charming rustic planters. Paint these tires in your choice of colors to match your garden’s theme and use them as unique flower pots. Their excellent drainage properties make them a practical choice, while adding a fun and eco-friendly touch to your outdoor space. Whether in your front yard or backyard, upcycled tire planters can transform an ordinary budget garden into a standout showcase of creativity and sustainability.

Colorful flowers growing in repurposed blue tires used as planters against a wooden fence — Source: @homesteadingindenver via Instagram

21. Painted Rocks for Garden Art

Creating a budget-friendly garden provides an excellent opportunity for creativity and family involvement. Whether you’re growing veggies, flowers, or potted plants, there’s no need to overspend. Incorporate painted rocks as charming garden decor; it’s a simple and cost-effective method to introduce vibrant colors and a playful touch to your outdoor space.

Engage your children in the process by encouraging them to paint their own rock designs, fostering a sense of ownership and fun. With a dash of imagination and some colorful rocks, your budget garden will shine brightly in the sunlight, bringing joy to both adults and kids alike.

Painted rocks resembling cacti, one with a smiling face and "Free Hugs" message, arranged on a round wooden base — Source: @dizzy_eyed_fillmore via Instagram

22. Assemble a Succulent Tray Garden

Transforming your garden into a budget-friendly, yet aesthetically pleasing haven is easily achievable with a succulent tray garden. Incorporate succulent cuttings into a variety of containers with varying shapes and depths to craft a captivating and conversation-worthy garden feature. To maintain these charming plants, simply water them when the leaves appear slightly wrinkled and the soil looks dry. In no time, your budget garden will thrive with the allure of succulent beauty.

A small, round garden in a blue container with various succulents and plants, surrounded by white pebbles and brown rocks — Source: @konishi.yoshihiro via Instagram

23. Build an Attractive Rock Garden

Crafting an appealing rock garden is an excellent choice for budget-conscious gardeners. Collect large stones, embracing their natural crevices and cracks that add character. Secure them in place with smaller pebbles to both complement the rocks and provide interesting texture.

A rock garden is an affordable way to breathe life into your backyard, offering a distinctive and captivating focal point that won’t break the bank.

A tranquil Japanese rock garden with large stones, white gravel, trimmed trees, and a red pagoda under a clear blue sky — Source: @maneekam via Instagram

24. Landscape with Pebbles on a Budget

Creating an inviting garden on a budget is now within your reach. Incorporate pebbles for a charming walkway or repurpose bricks to build terrace walls. These affordable landscaping ideas can inject color and vibrancy into your garden space without breaking the bank. Transform your backyard into a budget-friendly oasis by carefully selecting materials and unleashing your creative flair.

Front yard with a landscaped design featuring mulched and gravel areas, potted plants, and stone-edged paths and planters — Source: @senorjuanton via Instagram

25. DIY Tree Swing from an Old Plank

Turning your outdoor space into a budget-friendly oasis is easier than you think. With creativity and a bit of time, you can create a charming garden without draining your wallet. Consider repurposing an old plank into a delightful tree swing for added backyard entertainment. Whether you’re looking to expand seating or introduce shade curtains, there are numerous cost-effective ways to enhance your garden’s allure.

A wooden swing hangs from a tree in a sunny garden, surrounded by vibrant green grass and various plants — Source: @boburke1 via Instagram

26. Install an Egg Chair for Outdoor Relaxation

Don’t let a tight budget deter you from enjoying the finer things in your garden. An egg chair can bring a touch of luxury to your outdoor oasis without breaking the bank. Whether suspended in a cozy corner or hovering above your garden blooms, this stylish furniture piece elevates the overall ambiance, creating a serene and elegant outdoor retreat.

Wicker hanging chair with gray cushions on a wooden deck in a garden, surrounded by flowers and solar lights — Source: @golfingchixblog via Instagram