If you think your backyard is looking a little boring, it’s time for a big makeover. You can treat it as your DIY project and create a more modern backyard design than what you have right now. And if you have a tight budget, don’t worry about it. These cheap landscape ideas will elevate the look of your garden without breaking the bank.

A brick path
A brick path is more durable and can add to the look of many gardens. Family Handyman discusses how to build one.
Add steps
Simple steps can be built into the landscape to make navigating it easier. Depending on the type of materials used, they can also add to the aesthetic appeal.
Outdoor pots
Potted plants aren’t just for indoors. If you have low maintenance plants, they may do well in larger pots outdoors.
Raised plant beds
Get off the ground and use raised plant beds. They add to the look of an outdoor space while making it easier to access and maintain plants.
Get creative
Raised beds don’t just need to be alongside the house. In fact, to avoid issues with mold and mildew, it’s best to give them their own space.
Add a rabbit coop
When you run out of things to add to your backyard, here’s one of the big backyard ideas you may want to consider – rabbits! Instructables has the instructions for this one too.
Plant in clusters
To create a look of abundance, plant multiple plants together in an area. This is especially helpful for landscaping in drier climates where a grass lawn may not be realistic.
Add sculptural plants
The one thing that most beautiful backyards have are sculptural plants.
Pick plants that have height and sculptural quality to turn your backyard into an artistic statement. A snake plant may be a good choice for some backyards.
Wood chips or gravel
For a simple to create and inexpensive path, use wood chips or gravel. While framing the path and using a barrier is preferred, it may be possible to skip those steps for some simple projects.
Upcycle
Look around and see what you already have in the garage and upcycle them. Upcycling is one of the best and easy patio ideas on a budget. You’ll be surprised what can be given a new life in the garden.
A modern fire pit
Do you love the idea of a fire pit but want to skip the stone or brick look? Check out the tutorial by House & Fig for some modern backyard fire pit design ideas.
Painted rocks
Use painted rocks to bring color and vibrance to your backyard all year long. Get creative, but make sure to use paint that will remain waterproof no matter what the weather may be.
Go zen
Add a traditional raked garden. Incorporate bamboo and other traditional Japanese materials and plants.
Go bold
Go bold and use tall plants that will do well in your climate. Add an array of plants for variety.
Lace stepping stones
Creating these lace stepping stones will take a lot less effort than you would assume. The people at Instructables show us how to do it.
A garden bench or picnic table
Add some seating to your garden. This Instructables DIY project is both a bench and a table.
Utilize large rocks for cheap landscape ideas
Large rocks can be more than just a hindrance. They can accentuate and build-up areas as well as providing a natural boundary.
Making doorways
Create secret gardens. Use climbing flowers and arches to create passages to other areas of your outdoor space.

Takeaway
These cheap landscape ideas are smart ways to give your garden that modern backyard design. Remember to utilize what you have first, then source for plants that work well with your soil and climate. You’ll get the backyard of your dreams in no time!
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