You don’t have to be rich to have a nice-looking garden. You just have to be inventive and learn to work with what you’ve got. Some of the nicest gardens out there are not much bigger than a shed, but the way the space has been utilized makes them look amazing. If you’re looking to transform your outdoor area (however big or small it is) into something more aesthetically pleasing but don’t have too much cash to splash, then you’re in the right place.

Here, we’re going to share with you some incredible tips on how to make your garden come alive on a shoestring budget. So, without further ado, let’s get cracking!

  • Get clearing and cleaning. The first thing you can do to give your garden an instant facelift is simply give it a little spring clean. Cut back any overgrown bushes or trees, pull up those weeds, and get the strimmer on any straggling edges. You’ll be amazed at what a difference just clearing a few stray leaves and branches can do. Not only will it open up your space, but it will also allow more light in, making it look much more inviting.


When it comes to cleaning, you should clear any bird poo and nests. If you have birds visit your property frequently and don’t want to be stuck cleaning after the for the rest of your life, then you might want to consider a more permanent solution – i.e. a bird netting system. These systems are a non-harmful way of preventing birds from roosting and nesting in your garden. They’re fitted using a network of cable and can span the whole perimeter of the garden if necessary.

  • Sow some seeds. If your garden is looking a little bare, then what better way to add some depth to it than to plant a few flower seeds. Even if you have a small garden, planting a few flowers outside can make all the difference. Most outdoor flowers are relatively easy to maintain as mother nature does most the looking after for you. They’re also inexpensive, yet hugely effective. And, of you plant them in pots opposed to straight in the ground, you then have the added option of being able to move them around to create different looks.

If you have a garden that’s got quite a lot of empty space, you may want to consider putting in a vegetable patch of some kind. Not only will this help transform your garden, but it will save you money in the long run as you get to chow down on your own home-grown food.

  • Grab a brush. Adding a lick of paint to something can give it a whole new lease of life. This is especially true when it comes to wood.

So, if you have any wooden fences or sheds in the vicinity of your garden, why not throw a splash of paint on them? You’ll be amazed at the difference that it makes.

  • Upcycle old furniture. Upcycling is the new trend right now when it comes to redecorating, both inside and outside the home! And, the great thing about upcycling is that you get the best of both worlds. In one hand you’re getting rid of any old tatty furniture that’s been lying around cluttering up your home, and in another you get some brand-new quirky garden accessories. Old dressing tables or sinks can easily be turned into some funky planters, while things like pallets could be used to create even bigger planters or perhaps your own little compost bin. It’s literally a win-win situation.
  • Hanging baskets. These make a wonderful addition to any garden. They’re inexpensive, require little maintenance, and you don’t even need to have any lawn space. Popular choices of flowers to use in hanging baskets include petunias, verbena, and fuchsias. But there are plenty others to choose from. It just depends on your taste. You could even grow some tomatoes in there if you want to do something a little different.

  • Light it up. Outdoor fairy lights are another popular trend at the moment and are the perfect way to make your garden instantly magical. They are readily available all year round and can be hung from pretty much anywhere. Weave them in and out of tree branches, around fences and furniture, or wrap them around posts stuck in the ground. The great thing about fairy lights is that they’re so versatile and easy to work with and bring a pretty glow to your garden at night.