When I first started thinking about landscape design, I had no idea where to begin. I imagined a Pinterest-worthy backyard, but in reality, I was just staring at a patch of grass, completely lost. After some trial and error (and a few dead plants), I finally figured out how to design a landscape that looked good and was easy to maintain. If you’re new to landscape design, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get you started—without feeling overwhelmed.
1. Start with a Plan (Even a Rough Sketch Helps!)
The biggest mistake I made early on was buying random plants and hoping they’d somehow “fit.” They didn’t. Before you start digging, sketch a basic layout of your yard. Mark areas for pathways, flower beds, seating spaces, and trees. It doesn’t have to be fancy—just having a plan will save you time, money, and frustration.
2. Consider How You’ll Use the Space
A backyard isn’t just for looks—it needs to work for your lifestyle. Do you want a quiet space for relaxing? A play area for kids? A garden for growing vegetables? I originally wanted a lush flower garden, but then I realized I also needed space for a fire pit and some shade. Thinking about function first helps you make better design choices.
3. Choose the Right Plants for Your Climate
I can’t tell you how many plants I bought just because they looked good—only to watch them wilt in the summer heat. Research what grows well in your region. Native plants are a great choice because they require less water and maintenance. Bonus: They also attract birds and pollinators!
4. Use Layers to Create Depth
A flat yard can look pretty boring. The trick? Layering different plant heights. Start with taller trees or shrubs in the back, medium-height plants in the middle, and smaller flowers or ground cover in the front. This simple trick adds depth and makes any garden look more intentional.
5. Add a Pathway for Structure
A well-placed pathway makes a huge difference in how your yard flows. I added a simple gravel path from my patio to the garden, and it instantly made the space feel more put together. You can use stepping stones, bricks, or even wood planks—whatever fits your style.
6. Don’t Forget Mulch (It Saves So Much Time!)
Mulch is a beginner’s best friend. It keeps weeds down, retains moisture, and makes garden beds look polished. I learned the hard way that skipping mulch means lots of weeding later. A 2-3 inch layer of bark mulch or gravel around plants makes a big difference.
7. Keep Your Lawn Simple (or Skip It!)
Lawns look nice, but they’re a lot of work. If you don’t want to spend weekends mowing, consider shrinking your lawn and replacing some areas with ground cover, wildflowers, or decorative gravel. I reduced my lawn size and instantly cut my maintenance time in half.
8. Use Outdoor Lighting for a Cozy Feel
Good lighting makes any outdoor space feel warm and inviting. I started with just a few solar lights along my pathway, and now I can’t imagine my yard without them. String lights, lanterns, and spotlights can highlight features like trees or garden beds, making your yard look magical at night.
9. Keep It Low-Maintenance
If you’re a beginner, don’t create a garden that needs constant upkeep. Start with hardy, drought-resistant plants and avoid anything too fussy. Raised garden beds, automatic irrigation, and slow-growing shrubs will save you a ton of time and effort.
Final Thoughts: Start Small and Have Fun
Landscape design doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with a simple plan, choose easy-care plants, and focus on functionality. Most importantly, don’t stress if it’s not perfect—gardens evolve over time. The best landscapes are the ones you enjoy, not the ones that look straight out of a magazine. So, grab your shovel and have fun creating your own little outdoor paradise!
