10 simple side yard ideas to revamp your outdoor areas

With a bit of effort, the side area of a house can be transformed from something mediocre into something spectacular. Whether a weekend DIY project or a task for the professionals, there are a number of ways to make the most out of this often-neglected outdoor space.

If you’re looking at your outdoor area and wondering “what can I do with my side garden?”, check out our list of side yard ideas, put together by our gardening experts below!

Pruning

Overgrown bushes and trees can take away from the rest of your yard’s aesthetic, making the area look scraggly and unkempt. Pruning is a simple side of house garden idea that can have a big impact. Regularly maintaining your foliage will ensure that your side garden looks neat and tidy all year round.

Veggie patch

If you have a larger side space to work with, you might like to consider using some of the area to create a veggie patch. Home-grown produce can save you money, generally tastes fresher, and provides a fantastic opportunity to teach kids more about the food we eat. Just keep in mind you’ll need a spot that receives plenty of space as most veggies need at least 6 hours of sunlight a day to thrive.

Overhead planting

If you’ve always dreamed of having a stunning archway, then a side yard overhead garden could be the perfect opportunity. Consider training creepers and vines to grow up an archway, fence or trellis. You could grow roses, bougainvillea, or climbing jasmine and create a magical area. This simple side yard landscaping idea is perfect for small spaces as it doesn’t take up much valuable ground real estate.

Wall and tree plants

Those after a particularly low-maintenance side yard idea should consider growing a few wall or tree plants. Attach some Staghorn Ferns to your fence for an easy tropical look, or drape some Old Man’s Beard over a tree branch or two to create an enchanted forest feel for your side garden.

Stepping stones

A classic side garden idea in Australia, stepping stones are a fantastic way to add some interest to your yard without taking up too much space. Choose from a range of materials, shapes and sizes to create a path that suits your home and style. You could even get creative with this one and have the kids paint their own designs and patterns onto the steps.

Outdoor shower

If you’re lucky enough to have a side yard with easy access to water, an outdoor shower could be the perfect addition. This can be a particularly good option for those that live close to the beach or river and enjoy going for a regular surf or swim. Not only does an outdoor shower add an extra bit of function to your side garden, but it can also be a great place to cool off when it’s warm.

Shade-loving plants

If you’re looking for a side yard idea for an area that doesn’t receive much light, consider planting a few shade-loving plants. There are many different options to choose from, including those that are low-maintenance. Some options of low-maintenance plants for shaded areas include azaleas, hydrangeas, and ferns.

Garden bench

Adding a garden bench to your side yard is a great way to make the most of the space. You can use it as a place to sit and relax, an extra spot for some plants, or both. If you’re looking for an affordable option, consider investing in a wooden or metal bench. Stone benches are also a great choice, but they can be a little more expensive.

Birdbath

Birdbaths are a beautifully simple side yard idea that can add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. Not only will the birds appreciate somewhere to drink from and splash about in, but you’ll also have a stunning feature piece for your side garden. Try to place your birdbath in a space that’s easy to view, so you can observe the birds that come and go throughout the day. Choose a birdbath that is the right size for your area. If you have a small side yard, go for a compact design, and if you have a larger space, you might like to consider a larger, more elaborate option.

Potted plants

If you’re short on space, or just want to change up the look of your side yard on a regular basis, consider using pots for your plants. You can move them around as often as you like to create new and interesting arrangements, and there’s no need to worry about replanting them if you move and wish to take them with you. Just make sure to use a pot that has a drainage hole so the plant can still get the drainage it needs.

There you have it – 10 simple side yard ideas to help you revamp your outdoor areas! We hope you’ve found these side yard ideas helpful. If you’re still not sure what to do with your outdoor space, contact your local Jim’s Mowing franchisee to discuss landscaping options.