How do you plant a garden in a small space?

Height is your friend when designing any compact outdoor space. Plant tall shrub and tree varieties. But also think about how you can use elevation throughout your landscaping. Vertical plants — i.e., climbing vines trained on a trellis — can create the illusion of more physical space. A tiered planter is a wonderful way to combine the space efficiency of vertical gardening with a more traditional look. Remember, these strategies can be applied to both food and flower gardens! There’s no reason to give up your dream of cultivating a veggie garden just because you have limited space.

Does landscaping add value to a home?

Yes, it’s true that well-curated landscaping can have a notable impact on a home’s perceived value! The real estate market is one reason to spend time and money reimagining your home’s landscape. Many homeowners invest in fresh landscaping as part of the selling process. So whether you’re content in your current home or have plans to sell, stylish landscaping is definitely a worthwhile area to focus on!

28 Landscaping Ideas for Your Outdoor Space

Great residential landscaping isn’t just about keeping up appearances. It’s also about making your property as functional and practical as possible!

There are no one-size-fits-all design solutions for a backyard or front curbside. It’s even rare for any two landscapes in a single neighborhood to look the same.

Climate, lot size, architectural style, and the level of maintenance you’re willing to invest in all play a role in landscaping. Keep reading for the best landscaping ideas to help you get started!

1. Choose Concrete Pavers for Durability

For a sleek, durable walkway or patio, concrete pavers are a smart choice. They come in various shapes and colors, allowing for customization to fit your home’s aesthetic and can withstand heavy foot traffic.

A landscaped garden with a stone patio, green lawn, trees, planter boxes, and a white canopy on a cloudy day — Source: @kingshillpropertysolutions via Instagram

A sunny garden with a wooden table and chairs on a patio, surrounded by hedges, trees, and a lawn — Source: @thedistinctivegardener via Instagram

Garden with a concrete path, vegetable beds, and lush plants, raised wooden planters and a small shed are in the background — Source: @dunsborough___landscaping via Instagram

2. Build a Retaining Wall for Structure

Building a retaining wall can transform sloped areas into usable garden space. It’s a practical solution for preventing soil erosion and creating visual interest through tiered planting areas.

Modern garden with stone steps, green lawn, and lit planters. Trees and shrubs line a stylish outdoor space beside a home at dusk — Source: @fathernaturebirmingham via Instagram

3. Transform Your Pool with Artificial Grass

Swap traditional turf for artificial grass to create a lush, green poolside without the upkeep. It’s safe, provides consistent ground cover, and drains well, keeping the pool area clean and slip-free.

Modern backyard with a geometric pool, green lawn, and a patio area, houses and trees visible in the background under a clear blue sky — Source: @synlawncentralcalifornia via Instagram

4. Embrace a Natural Garden Aesthetic

Invoke the feel of nature with a garden that features native plants and meandering pathways. This approach supports local ecosystems and reduces maintenance by working with, rather than against, the local environment.

Lawn chair on stone patio overlooking lush green garden and dense trees under a cloudy sky — Source: @earthcreationlandscapes via Instagram

Backyard with green lawn, colorful chairs, blue umbrella, toys, and a house on the right, surrounded by lush greenery and a wooden fence — Source: @rerehabber via Instagram

5. Mix Pebbles with Pavers for Texture

Use pebbles to fill the gaps between pavers for a modern, textured look. This combination is ideal for creating paths that are both functional and visually appealing.

Concrete slabs form a walkway with pebble borders in a garden, featuring various plants and a wooden bench — Source: @cristinapacosta via Instagram

Modern backyard with black brick patio, white gravel, stepping stones, black fence, raised garden beds, and a small playhouse — Source: @derwent25_classic via Instagram

6. Elegant Garden Symmetry

Symmetrical garden designs create a sense of balance and formality. Use ectangular stepping stones and central features like a statue or fountain to achieve this classic look.

A green lawn with a stone path leading to a small water feature. A wooden bench and red flowers are on the left side, with shrubbery around — Source: @thelawnexpert via Instagram

7. DIY Wooden Garden Fence

Constructing a wooden fence provides a natural backdrop for your plants. It’s a project that can be personalized with paint or stain to match your garden’s theme.

A small garden with a blue shed, wooden fence, stepping stones, a birdhouse, flowers, and a small lawn area — Source: @lifewithchelss_ via Instagram

8. Combine Gravel and Stone for Elegance

Gravel and stone are excellent for creating low-maintenance landscapes that conserve water. They’re ideal for creating paths, or as ground cover in xeriscaping.

Stone path with stepping stones and pebbles, bordered by grass and plants, leading to a white gate beside a house and gray wall — Source: @jackfrostgardens via Instagram

9. Combine Hardscaping and Softscaping

Maximize your urban outdoor area by utilizing a combination of hardscaping and softscaping. Patterned paving stones intermixed with pebbles create a distinct pathway, while a section of artificial turf provides a low-maintenance green area.

Small backyard garden with stone path, grass, and decorative plants; wooden lattice and fence frame the area — Source: @gremilyemily via Instagram

10. Gather Around a Cozy Fire Pit

A fire pit serves as a warm centerpiece for outdoor gatherings. Place it in a dedicated area with seating and ensure it complements the overall landscape design.

Backyard with a small pool, surrounded by rocks and plants; a gravel area with a fire pit is in the foreground; blue sky above — Source: @getwellness101 via Instagram

A circular outdoor seating area with red chairs and a fire pit, surrounded by a grassy lawn, near a gray shed and fenced yard — Source: @cooper343 via Instagram

11. Simplify with Mulch Landscaping

Mulch is a gardener’s ally for reducing weeds and retaining soil moisture. Select an organic type that complements your plants and garden style for a polished look.

Front yard with mulched garden beds, small plants, and trees along a concrete path leading to a house, bench by the entrance — Source: @oursixtieshouse via Instagram

Front view of a modern light blue house with a stone-covered landscape, trimmed bushes, and a green lawn under a blue sky — Source: @greatergrovesgardens via Instagram

12. Brighten Your Front Yard with White Gravel

White gravel can brighten up your home’s facade while providing a neat, minimalist ground cover that requires minimal upkeep.

Sloped garden with white gravel, small plants, and rocks in front of a house with brick walls and a mix of trees in the background — Source: @greenfingers6 via Instagram

13. Infuse Color with Plants and Flowers

Select a mix of perennials and annuals for year-round color. Group plants with similar water and sunlight needs together to streamline care.

A yellow suburban house with red shutters, a red front door, and a landscaped yard with flowers under a blue sky with clouds — Source: @home_on_a_dime via Instagram

A backyard at dusk with string lights, picnic table, barbecue grill, and plants surrounding a modern building — Source: @crescentcanyon via Instagram

Small gray house with a wooden porch, surrounded by a well-maintained garden and lawn, under a partly cloudy sky — Source: @therescuedhome via Instagram

A single-story house with a solar panel, a two-car garage, and a well-kept lawn; bushes and small plants line the walkway — Source: @modernlandscapesplus via Instagram

Lush garden with various plants, gravel paths, and a small seating area with two chairs and a table — Source: @thejuditshome via Instagram

14. Make a Statement with a Palm Tree

For a tropical flair, palms are perfect. They make a statement when placed at entry points or as a focal point in the garden.

Modern white two-story house with palm tree and landscaped garden in front, blue sky and driveway on a sunny day — Source: @gardendistrictmiami via Instagram

15. Lay Pebbles Around Artificial Grass

Define and accent artificial grass areas with pebbles. This not only looks stylish but also aids in drainage and minimizes debris on the turf.

Modern house with a brick and white facade, landscaped garden featuring stone-bordered grass, shrubs, and a potted plant — Source: @our_hastings_2020 via Instagram

16. Select Trees to Define Your Front Yard

Choose trees that match your climate and space. They provide shade, improve air quality, and can increase property value.

Modern house with a two-car garage, neatly manicured lawn, trees, and a brick facade under a blue sky with clouds — Source: @sydneygardening via Instagram

17. Utilize Every Nook with a Corner Garden

Transform a neglected corner into a vibrant garden spot with shade-loving plants. It’s a simple way to create a secluded nook.

Small backyard with green grass, a potted plant on a patio, and black outdoor furniture against a wooden fence — Source: @berkshiretownhouse via Instagram

18. Enhance Your Poolside with Creative Landscaping

Use non-slip materials and drought-resistant plants for a practical yet beautiful poolside. Consider space for lounging and ensure plants won’t drop leaves into the water.

Lush garden with a stone path leading to a pool surrounded by chairs and trees under a clear blue sky — Source: @fathernaturebirmingham via Instagram

19. Introduce Tranquility with a Koi Pond

A koi pond adds tranquility and movement to your garden. Ensure it’s properly filtered and consider the local climate for year-round maintenance.

Lush garden with green grass, a small pond with lily pads, and various trees under a bright blue sky — Source: @itz.siddz via Instagram

20. Master the Challenge of Slope Landscaping

Utilize a slope by creating a rock garden or planting ground-cover plants. This can turn a challenging yard feature into a beautiful focal point.

Modern brick house with large windows and manicured gardens, featuring lush green plants and a well-kept lawn — Source: @kml.interiors_ via Instagram

21. Frame Your Garden with Brick Edging

Bricks offer a classic garden edge that defines spaces clearly. Lay them flat or on their side in a trench for a traditional look.

A neatly landscaped garden with a curved stone border, green grass, red mulch, and evergreen shrubs next to a house — Source: @lukeslandscapingto via Instagram

22. Create Natural Elegance with Flagstone

Flagstones are ideal for creating natural-looking paths and patios. Their irregular shapes and earthy tones blend seamlessly with outdoor environments.

Backyard with patio, hot tub, and staircase leading to a gray house's upper deck; green lawn and shrubs surround the area — Source: @reborn_properties via Instagram

Pathway of flat stones leads through a landscaped garden with trees and grass under a cloudy sky — Source: @allterrainlandscaping via Instagram

House with blue and beige walls, decorative stone pathway, palm trees, and a patterned wall art in the front yard — Source: @gardendistrictmiami via Instagram

23. Go Green with a Simple Grass Yard

A well-kept lawn is timeless. Regular mowing and edging keep it looking its best, providing a simple yet effective landscape feature.

Two-story suburban house with stone and wood facade, surrounded by trees and a well-maintained lawn on a sunny day — Source: @helenadamsrealty via Instagram

Lush garden courtyard with palm trees, string lights, lounge chairs, and stepping stones in front of a modern building — Source: @suksma.garden via Instagram

Single-story red brick house with teal shutters, a curved driveway, and a well-kept green lawn, surrounded by trees — Source: @exitgreenteam via Instagram

House with sliding glass doors and a garden, paved path and small plants in the yard, hose attached to an outdoor tap — Source: @livinglandscapesnoosa via Instagram

24. Elevate Planting with a Raised Garden Bed

Elevate your gardening with raised beds. They’re easier on the back, improve drainage, and can be filled with quality soil for better plant health.

A backyard with artificial grass, a wooden fence, potted plants, blooming flowers in a raised garden bed, and a rustic wagon wheel decoration — Source: @houseflipforum via Instagram

25. Add Versatility with Pots and Containers

For versatility in small spaces, pots and containers are the go-to. They allow you to grow a variety of plants and can be rearranged for seasonal changes.

Single-story house with a tiled roof, surrounded by a lush green lawn and potted plants, stone path leads to the entrance — Source: @garden_lk via Instagram

26. Create a Small Yard Sanctuary

Create a peaceful retreat by mixing flowering plants with greenery. Use colors to set a mood—cool blues for calm, bright colors for a vibrant feel.

Lush garden with vibrant flowers, a birdbath, and a pathway. Patio with a black chair in the foreground — Source: @thebambee via Instagram

27. Dress Up Your Garden with a Trellis Arch

Make a statement in your garden with a trellis arch. It’s a smart way to introduce verticality and can support climbing plants like roses or ivy, creating a living archway that adds a romantic touch to your outdoor space.

Garden pathway with stepping stones, lined by hydrangeas and pine shrubs, leading to a black arched trellis, house in the background — Source: @goodpathgarden via Instagram

28. Design a Pathway for Garden Exploration

Designing a walk path isn’t just about getting from point A to B; it’s about the experience. Use materials like flagstone for a natural look or colored concrete for a modern feel, and line the path with low-growing ground cover or LED lights for both beauty and functionality.

Tropical resort with thatched-roof buildings, lush green lawn, palm trees, and a winding stone path under a cloudy sky — Source: @bosquedelcabo via Instagram

A one-story house with a red-tiled roof, white walls, and a neatly landscaped front yard featuring palm trees and vibrant plants — Source: @gardendistrictmiami via Instagram