Handymen swear by these cheap tricks that make your backyard a heck of a lot better

You don’t have to spend thousands of dollars to switch up your entire garden. According to Todd Hendricks, owner of Louisville Landscape Pros, “Simply changing the color of your mulch can rejuvenate your garden and give it a whole different look. This is actually one of my most commonly recommended approaches for clients on a limited budget.”

If you’re in need of inspiration, he goes on to suggest, “For rich red mulch, I like the Green Thumb brand just because clients trust it more and their quality is consistent.” Plus, it’s even designed to retain moisture, which can help keep your garden hydrated over time.

You switch up outdoor decorations based on the season, and it can be just as impactful to switch up mulch colors. “You can also change the color according to the seasons, which is something fun that I like to do for seasonal maintenance, especially for the fall [...],” explains Hendricks. “For golden mulch, I use the Ohio Mulch Golden Trophy Pine Bark Nuggets because their color lasts for a good amount of time and looks natural.”

But if that isn’t enough, this is also great for acid-loving plants, trees, and bushes, making it a versatile addition to your outdoor landscaping.

If you’d like an easy way to make your home stand out, consider doing some landscaping with glow-in-the-dark stones. “Glow-in-the-dark stones look absolutely surreal when nighttime comes [...],” explains Hendricks. “Some common ways to use these stones are along pathways and around the edges of any outdoor living spaces, like patios and outdoor kitchens.”

These particular stones are made from tough resin, so there’s no need to worry about how they’ll fare from season to season. They can also stay lit for up to seven hours at night — and you have the choice of two colors: blue or green.

Sometimes the simplest changes to your backyard deliver the most bang for your buck — like hanging up some string lights. “String lights are an instant, affordable means of establishing a cozy, inviting ambiance [...],” explains Deepak Shukla, CEO of Pearl Lemon Home Repair. He adds, “[Solar-powered[ sets offer an energy-saving option that does not require new wiring.”

With that in mind, these particular string lights are worth a look. An attached solar panel keeps them glowing all night, plus, the weatherproof bulbs are designed to last through all seasons.

If you’re not a fan of traditional string lights, consider taking a look at these magical-feeling curtain ones. At almost 10 feet in length, they’re ideal for draping over walls, hedges, or even lining fences — and you can connect up to three sets together to cover extra-large spaces if needed. Plus, each order includes a remote so that you can control them from afar.

Even the most beautiful backyard can look crummy if your furniture and deck are stained. Luckily, Shukla has an easy fix. He tells Mic that “a powerful deck cleaner brings wood decks back to their former beauty by washing away grime and mildew, life-extending them without refinishing.”

Not only is this particular stain remover suitable for use on decks, patios, plastic furniture, gutters, and more, but the formula is also plant- as well as lawn-safe. Simply mix a 1:1 ratio of stain remover with water, spritz it onto the surface you’d like to refresh, then wait 30 seconds before wiping it away.

Adding a fire pit to your backyard is almost always a good idea. Shukla tells Mic, “A standalone or built-in fire pit also allows for a warm, cozy focal point perfect for families and friends to gather around.”

This fire pit is available for a pretty low price, yet features a tough steel frame that can withstand temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. And, if the occasion doesn’t call for a fire, you can also fill it with ice and use it as a drink cooler.

If you can’t fit a full-sized fire pit into your backyard or budget, consider opting for this tabletop version instead. It can burn using wood or pellets for fuel — and while small, the 360-degree airflow design helps it spread heat up to 2 feet away. Plus, the stainless steel exterior is unlikely to rust over time.

Upgrading your backyard doesn’t solely mean making it look good — it can also apply to the way it functions. Enter: an outdoor smart plug. “Smart outdoor plugs are one of the easiest upgrades that will make everything else more convenient,” Daniel Vasilevski, Director & owner at Bright Force Electrical. “They allow you to automate lighting, control fountains remotely, or switch on outdoor features without stepping outside.”

This particular outdoor smart plug is a total steal. Both of its outlets can be controlled independently using your smartphone, allowing you to turn them on/off, put them on schedules, and more. You can even sync them with Alexa or Google Home, to use convenient voice commands to turn each outlet on or off.

An illuminated outdoor space is always more welcoming than one that’s dark. With that in mind, Vasilevski tells Mic that “an upgrade that’s always worth considering is solar garden lighting. It brings out the best parts of the yard after dark, makes paths easier to navigate, and adds that soft glow without adding to your power bill.”

These handy pathway lights are powered by a built-in solar panel that keeps them lit for up to eight hours at night — no need for any hardwiring. Simply press their stakes into the ground and they’re ready to go.

Now that you’ve grabbed some pathway lights, it’s important to install them in a way that ensures they receive the most light possible. Vasilevski reminds that where you place solar lights matters: “They need full sun during the day, so you want to keep them away from shaded corners, under tree branches, or anywhere they won’t get at least a few hours of light.”

A festive take on traditional versions, these pathway lights are made with a high-efficiency solar panel, allowing them to deliver up to eight hours of light in the summer or six hours of light in the winter. Installation is as easy as pressing the stakes down into the ground — and the LED bulb on the inside simulates real flames for an undeniably cozy vibe.

If your backyard feels stale, the solution could be as easy as installing an outdoor water fountain. “It brings both movement and sound into the yard, and it breaks up a static space, especially in smaller gardens or courtyards,” explains Vasilevski. “The sound of water helps cover up noise from neighbours or nearby streets, and the constant movement attracts birds and adds a calming element to the space.”

With that in mind, this particular fountain has a stylish look that seems way pricier than it is. Warm LED lights built into each tier give it an oh-so-cozy vibe — and the sturdy resin frame is built to hold up from season to season. Plus, an empty pot on the left side gives you somewhere to add extra greenery.

If a larger-scale fountain doesn’t suit your yard, consider making your own using this kit. Simply insert the pump into a planter, bowl, or pot that’s filled with water, and it’ll start running water through the stylish bamboo chute at the top. Plus, the bamboo chutes are split- as well as crack-resistant to help keep them looking good over time.

Creating crisp, clean landscaping lines can be a challenge. Andriy Boyko, founder of A.O. Handy Inc., has an affordable suggestion. “Try no-dig landscape edging like EasyFlex,” he tells Mic. “Just hammer it into the ground, and you’re done — no digging or trenching required. It’s the easiest way to keep mulch in place and your lawn looking sharp.”

And since it’s designed to withstand lawn trimmers, temperature fluctuations, and seasonal ground movement, you can rest assured that you won’t be stuck having to frequently adjust or replace it.

Want to make your patio feel just as cozy as your living room? Boyko suggests, “Get an outdoor rug.” He recommends “weatherproof, reversible rugs that are super easy to clean — just hose them down.”

Not only does this Boyko-recommended rug come in 10 sizes as well as more than 25 patterns, but it’s also waterproof as well as fade-resistant. The reversible design makes it almost like you’re getting two rugs for the price of one — and dozens of reviewers raved about how it’s “easy to clean.”

An affordable — but still striking — outdoor rug, this one is made from material the brand says will neither scratch your deck nor harm any grass underneath of it. It also features a specialized coating to help protect it from fading when placed in direct sunlight. One reviewer wrote that it “feels durable but soft underfoot. I’ve had it out through some rain and wind, and it’s held up beautifully – no fading or damage.”

Boyko adds, “If your rug keeps sliding, grab some outdoor carpet tape to keep it in place.” This tape is suitable for indoor as well as outdoor use, as the adhesion is so strong that it can easily stick to concrete, hardwood, or nearly any other type of surface. And since it’s moisture-resistant, there’s no need to worry about it losing its grip on rainy days.

Don’t have a ton of outdoor space to work with? Boyko has a clever solution. “Go vertical,” he tells Mic. “A hanging wall planter or stackable garden tower lets you add flowers, herbs, or veggies without taking up much room.”

These particular wall planters are idea, for growing vines, hanging up small planters, and more. They’re also made from high-quality wood rather than plastic — and with six sizes to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that suits your backyard.

Another space-saving option, this vertical garden planter is suitable for both indoor or outdoor use. A drainage system built into the planters helps keep you from accidentally over-watering your plants. Plus, the sturdy metal frame is designed in a triangular shape to ensure it stays stable.

Boyko has a clever alternative for anyone who would like a wall-mounted version of a vertical planter. “If you want a cheap DIY version, grab an over-the-door shoe organizer and punch a few drainage holes in the bottom,” he tells Mic. “Works like a charm!”

Not only does this over-the-door organizer have enough pockets for up to 24 plants, but the metal grommets at the top also make it easy to hang on doors, walls, and more. Choose from four colors: beige, black, brown, or white.

When in doubt, a stone pathway might be just the thing your backyard needs to make it feel cohesive. “A stone path makes any backyard feel more put together,” explains Boyko. “You can use stepping stones, pea gravel, or even a WalkMaker mold to create a custom stone pathway for cheap.”

These particular pea gravel stones have a sleek finish that’s sure to give any outdoor space a luxurious touch. You can also use them to decorate planters or gardens — and at 10 pounds’ worth of stones in every order, they’re a total steal.

If a concrete pathway would really suit your backyard, consider taking a look at this mold. It’s so easy to use that even DIY novices can be successful with it — simply press it down into your wet concrete, and it’ll imprint a stylish pattern. Plus, you can wash and reuse it as many times as you like.

You don’t need to spend an arm and a leg to add high-quality lighting to your backyard. “For lighting, skip the pricey hardwired stuff,” recommends Caleb John, Managing Director of Exceed Plumbing. “I have used 4-packs of solar spotlights from Amazon that cost me $35 and they have lasted over two years. I aim them at plants, walls and my toolshed — it adds a legit atmosphere on a plumber’s budget. Plus, you avoid the risk of messing with live wires.”

With that in mind, these solar lights are an affordable way to spotlight your yard without breaking the bank. The heads pivot back and forth, making it easy to direct the light wherever you want — and they can even stay lit for up to 20 hours when fully charged.

A lush, green garden will always look better than one that’s brown or wilting. But if you don’t have time to water it yourself, John has an easy fix. “[Grab] a $40 outdoor tap timer, hook it to your hose and bury some low-flow drip line through a flower bed or veggie patch,” he tells Mic. “No power needed and your plants water themselves while you are at work. For under $40, you save time and keep things green.”

With two outlets so you can water two areas at the same time, this tap timer is a solid pick for those looking to keep their garden hydrated. Its rain delay mode lets you suspend watering for up to seven days to help prevent overwatering on rainy days. Plus, the waterproof design means it will hold up in wet weather.

“Honestly, PVC piping makes killer backyard upgrades,” says John. “Grab 6 meters [...] of pipe, a few elbow joints and you have the frame for a custom trellis or shade sail stand.”

UV-resistant, bright white in color, and sturdy — these PVC pipes hit all the right notes. The entire 10 pack measures out to 33 feet, giving you enough pipe to create everything from trellises to vertical planters. And if 33 feet isn’t long enough for you, you can also grab a 20-pack that measures out to 66 feet in total.

Don’t forget to grab these elbow fittings if you added those PVC pipes to your cart. Not only do they let you add 90-degree angles to your PVC structures, but they’re also impact- as well as frost- and corrosion-resistant. And with nine sizes to choose from, you shouldn’t have trouble using them with pipes of nearly any size.

Creating shade in bright backyards can take a bit of thought — or, you could just follow John’s advice. “Add some climbing vines or a tarp and boom— instant shade and style for under $50,” he tells Mic. “People ask where I bought mine and I just smile.”

At 7 feet in length, this strand of faux ivy is a long-lasting, maintenance-free vine option long enough to drape over railings, gazebos, or nearly anywhere else you can think. The leaves look oh-so-realistic — even when up close — and you can trim the strands as needed to fit your space.

Speaking of creating shady coverage, this sun shade is a must if your backyard or patio is on the hotter side. It’s made from permeable mesh that helps block up to 95% of the sun’s harsh UV rays, yet still lets water pass through — so there’s no need to worry about pooling water on rainy days. Choose from dozens of sizes as well as more than 15 colors: blue, sand, lemon, and more.

No backyard or patio is complete without comfortable seating. But if patio furniture is out of reach, it’s not a problem. Blake Anderson, founder of Simple Home Garden, has an affordable alternative. “A portable hammock is an ideal place for cozy, relaxing moments,” he tells Mic. “It’s lightweight, easy to set up between trees or on a stand, and it instantly makes a retreat.”

With a weight limit of up to 660 pounds, this hammock is an absolute steal for the price. It comes with straps to attach it to two trees, and is made from a durable cotton-polyester blend that helps it hold up when left outside. And if your backyard doesn’t have suitable trees to hang it from, you can purchase an option with a stand.

It’s time to complete your seating area with a few extra pieces. Specifically, Anderson suggests that you add “[...] a small side table for your favorite drink, to make the perfect reading nook.”

With its tempered glass top and weather-resistant steel frame, this side table is an absolute must-have for a surprisingly low price. It can hold up to 110 pounds — so feel free to load it up with everything from drinks to books. You also have the choice of two shapes: round or square.

Anderson suggests throw pillows as another option for creating a perfect outdoor nook. These inserts are ideal for the job as they’re made from water-resistant fibers to help keep them in great shape despite the weather. Plus, the extra-plush filling makes them an oh-so-comfortable addition to any piece of outdoor furniture.

If you’re creating a cozy outdoor nook with throw pillows, these pillow covers are a fun option to throw into the mix. They feature a festive floral print that complements natural scenery, and with seven sizes to choose from, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding one that suits your setup.

If your backyard is on the smaller side, you may not have space for a full-sized hammock. Instead, Anderson suggests trying out a hammock chair. “Try a portable hammock chair for a seating option that is a little bit different,” he tells Mic. “It's a cozy alternative that can be easily hung from a sturdy tree branch or ceiling hook.”

Not only is this hammock chair an undeniably stylish addition to any outdoor space, but it also has a weight limit of up to 500 pounds. A pocket on the side gives you somewhere to stash books, phones, sunglasses, or any other small item. There are four sophisticated neutral colors to choose from (dark gray, beige, green, or light gray).

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or having friends over for an outdoor happy hour, rolling out an outdoor bar cart is almost guaranteed to impress. “If someone often enjoys hosting parties, a mobile bar cart can [be] the centerpiece,” explains Anderson.

This sleek-looking bar cart is made from tough stainless steel that can easily support up to 77 pounds — so feel free to place a pizza oven or griddle on the top. Hooks on the side give you somewhere to hang up everything from grilling utensils to propane gas cylinders.

When it comes to backyard barbecues and happy hours, don’t forget to grab these bartender tools. They’re great for whipping up everything from mojitos to margaritas — and each order comes with a stylish wooden display stand included. “This cocktail mixer set has everything you need for a fun night in or to jazz up your bar cart!” raved one reviewer. “The design is sleek and [makes] it a standout piece, and the wooden base keeps everything nicely organized.”

No backyard is complete without a grill, so why not take a look at this affordable option from Weber? The porcelain-enameled lid and bowl help it retain heat while you’re cooking — and unlike some grills, this one has a finish that’s rust- as well as peel-resistant. Plus, the compact size makes it easy to take with you when traveling, making it great for tailgates, camping, and more.

You don’t have to break the bank when creating a walkway in your backyard. “I've seen some great pavers or pathway ‘stones’ around that I'd really recommend when it comes to sprucing up your backyard on a budget,” says Brett Bennett, Director of Operations at PURCOR Pest Solutions. “I tend to recommend pathways using stones or mulch in general, since along with giving your backyard a nice and accessible vibe, they can also help prevent the spread of pests between your different garden plots and landscaping.”

With that in mind, these pathway stones are available for a budget-friendly price. They’re made from smooth, polished river stones that are sure to look good in any backyard — and installation is as easy as putting them down wherever you like.

If river stones don’t suit your backyard, consider opting for stepping stones made from rubber instead. Bennett tells Mic, “I've seen some really fun rubber ones, for instance, that are still heavy duty and durable enough to take foot traffic.”

Made from durable rubber, these stepping stones feature an intricate patterned top that makes them look way more expensive than their price. The rubber frames are also flexible enough to use over dirt, grass, gravel, or even concrete. And at 1 inch in height, they’re just thick enough to provide a stable surface when walking on them.

An alternative style of stepping stones, this decorative version is designed to look like a bright sunflower, making it ideal for added a pop of color to any outdoor space. It’s made from durable cement that’s fade-resistant, with a protective coating to help keep it looking good over time. And if you aren’t into sunflowers, you can grab it in four other styles: butterfly, succulent, and more.

“One of my favorite affordable backyard upgrades was the addition of a simple outdoor spigot upgrade kit,” Gary Bregani, owner of Willowbrook Plumbing & Heating, tells Mic. “If your current hose bib is leaking, rusted, or is hard to use, swapping it out for a frost-free sillcock [...] can make a big difference for both function and peace of mind — especially when winter rolls around.”

Bregani recommends this SharkBite sillcock, designed to drain away water to help prevent valve damage in freezing temperatures. Installation is so simple that no tools are required in order to get the job done — and its integrated vacuum breaker even helps prevent backflow.

For an ultimate hose upgrade, Bregani suggests “A hose splitter and quick-connect fittings to make watering plants, washing the patio, or even filling a kiddie pool way easier.” He adds, “It’s a simple thing that takes less than an hour but improves and allows you to do more in your backyard.”

This particular hose splitter features convenient shutoff valves on both channels that let you close each one independently. It has ergonomic grips that make it easy to use, and it can be attached to either the outdoor spigot or the end of your hose for double the watering capability.

When it comes to improving your backyard’s functionality, these storage straps are a clever way to organize messy garages and sheds. They’re great for hanging up hoses, extension cables, ropes, or even a leaf blower. And with a weight limit of up to 50 pounds, they can handle being loaded up with heavy items.

Getting down on your knees to work in the garden can strain your body. Instead, consider opting for a raised planter box. According to Tyler Hull, owner and general manager of Modern Exterior, “The elevated design reduces strain on your back [...].” And, importantly, “provides ample space for growing vegetables, herbs, or flowers.”

With that in mind, this particular option is made from galvanized steel, with a rust-resistant coating to help keep it looking good. A drainage hole in the center helps prevent overwatering. And many reviewers raved about how they were able to put this one together in 30 minutes or less.

If your yard or garden is low on space, Hull recommends this vertical planter. “Ideal for growing strawberries, herbs, or flowers, this planter allows you to cultivate multiple plants in a compact area,” he explains. Made of fade- and crack-resistant polypropylene, it has internal draining holes to keep your greenery happy. Choose from five finishes: brown, black, dark green, gray, ivory.

If your outdoor surfaces are looking a little grungy, Hull recommends using a pressure washer to “revitalize your patio, deck, or driveway.” This one comes with a 20-foot hose, as well as a 35-foot power cable that makes it easy to use with distant outdoor outlets. Plus, it works just as well when placed horizontally or vertically on the ground, giving you options when maneuvering it around awkward space.

Don’t forget to add this multi-purpose cleaning soap concentrate to your cart if you’ve got a power washer. It’s suitable for use on nearly any outdoor surface — and the formula is so potent that you can easily make up to 20 gallons of detergent from just one bottle. “You don’t need to mix much to get rid of dirt, mildew or hard water [...],” wrote one reviewer. “It doesn’t leave any residue or smell behind, but does its job.”