10 Green & Thrifty Backyard Ideas to Make it More Inviting

Our homes are a source of peace, joy, pride and relaxation.

They require time, money and energy to maintain, but the reward is more than worth the work.

In the summer many of us spend as much time as possible in our backyards, especially if you have a young family.

Are you bored with your backyard?

Or perhaps you have just moved and are looking for ideas to personalize your outdoor space and make it more inviting?

With summer being short, it is important to take some time to actually enjoy your yard after all the time and energy spent by homeowners in caring for and maintaining their lawns, flower gardens and property. 

Below are 10 unusual and eco-friendly ways to make your backyard more inviting for outdoor gatherings and entertainment without breaking the bank:

1. Colorful Pathways

Add charm to your backyard by creating colorful pathways using inexpensive materials like gravel, pebbles, or old bricks. These pathways can guide guests through your garden and create a delightful atmosphere.

2. Pallet Furniture

Create DIY outdoor furniture using pallets. You can build sofas, coffee tables, and even planters from repurposed pallets, giving your backyard a rustic and eco-friendly charm.

3. Solar-Powered Lights

Use solar-powered outdoor lights to illuminate your backyard during gatherings. They are cost-effective and environmentally friendly, as they harness energy from the sun.

 4. Homemade Bird Feeder

Attract birds to your backyard by making bird feeders using recycled materials like milk cartons, plastic bottles, or old teacups. This adds a delightful touch of nature during gatherings.

5. Nature-Inspired Decorations

Incorporate natural elements like stones, driftwood, and seashells into your backyard decor. These items can be collected during nature walks and used to create unique displays.

6. DIY Outdoor Movie Screen

Host outdoor movie nights without spending much by making your own movie screen using a white bedsheet or canvas. Pair it with a projector for a memorable backyard cinema experience.

7. Upcycled Planters

Repurpose old household items like buckets, teapots, or wine barrels as planters for your garden. Get creative with your container choices to add a whimsical touch to your outdoor space.

8. Outdoor DIY Games

Make your own outdoor games like giant Jenga, cornhole, or ring toss using inexpensive materials like wood or PVC pipes. Games are a fun way to entertain

9. Vertical Garden

Create a vertical garden using recycled containers or old wooden pallets. Grow herbs, flowers, or small plants vertically, adding greenery and visual appeal to your backyard.

10. Backyard Tent

Setting up a tent in the backyard for kids to play in can be an excellent idea during the hot days of summer. It offers several benefits:

• Shade and Sun Protection: A tent provides a shaded area where kids can escape the direct sun, reducing the risk of sunburn and overheating while still enjoying outdoor playtime.

• Imaginative Play: Tents inspire imaginative play and can become spaces for various activities, such as camping adventures, picnics, or pretend play scenarios, encouraging creativity and exploration.

• Outdoor Learning: Kids can take their toys, books, or even a small table inside the tent, creating an outdoor learning and reading space that makes learning fun and exciting.

• Comfort and Privacy: Having a tent allows children to have their private space where they can relax, unwind, or take a break from the excitement of outdoor play.

• Versatility: Tents come in various sizes and designs, from simple play tents to larger family tents. You can choose one that suits your kids' preferences and can be easily set up and taken down as needed.

• Family Bonding: If the tent is large enough, it can be a cozy spot for family members to gather, share stories, or enjoy stargazing during summer nights.

• Safe Retreat: In case of sudden rain or a passing shower, the tent can serve as a quick shelter, allowing kids to continue their outdoor play without getting wet.

When setting up a tent for kids, ensure it is properly anchored to the ground, especially if it's windy, to prevent accidents. Also, remember to supervise young children while they are playing in the tent, and if possible, provide some lightweight and breathable materials to enhance airflow inside during hot weather.

A backyard tent can be a wonderful addition to your outdoor space, providing a cool and safe area for kids to play, relax, and have fun during the hot summer days.

By adopting these eco-friendly and budget-friendly ideas, you can create a warm and welcoming space for outdoor gatherings and entertainment, while also being kind to the environment.

If your lawn, flowers or vegetable garden aren't looking as good as you hope, then check out our array of earth-friendly products to create that perfect green healthy backdrop.

For more information on our products please contact your local Earth Smart Solutions representative or contact our head office at 1-888-444-7174 or via email at info@earth-smart-solutions.com.