backyard, How to, outdoor living

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Small Outdoor Space Ideas for You

Not everyone has acres of outdoor space—but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a backyard that feels open, functional, and inviting. With thoughtful design choices, even the smallest yard, patio, or courtyard can become a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors every day.

Here are simple, practical ideas to help you maximize a small outdoor space without overcrowding it.

Go Vertical

When floor space is limited, look up. Vertical design allows you to add greenery, texture, and visual interest without sacrificing valuable square footage.

Install wall-mounted planters, trellises, or narrow shelving on a sturdy fence or wall to create a vertical garden. Herbs, succulents, trailing plants, and compact flowering varieties work especially well. Vertical gardens not only save space—they also soften hard surfaces and bring your yard to life.

For best results, choose plants based on sun exposure and remember that potted plants may need more frequent watering and nutrients than in-ground gardens.

To make maintenance even easier, consider integrating an auto-watering system, such as Outdoor Living Today’s self-watering planter solutions.

Build in the Seating

Instead of filling a small yard with movable furniture, consider built-in seating. Bench seating along fences, walls, or planters keeps the space feeling open and uncluttered while still providing plenty of room to sit.

Built-in benches can also double as storage for cushions, garden tools, or kids’ outdoor toys. Using durable materials like cedar or stone ensures the seating holds up to weather while blending naturally into the landscape.

Create Multitasking Spaces

In a small outdoor area, every surface should work a little harder. Design counters, tables, and seating that serve more than one purpose.

A low counter can function as a kids’ craft space during the day and a serving area for drinks and snacks in the evening. A compact table can act as a dining spot, potting bench, or workspace depending on the season. Choosing neutral colors and simple finishes helps these elements adapt to multiple uses.

Edit What You Have

Too many plants or furnishings can make a small space feel crowded. Be selective about what stays and rotate items seasonally to keep things feeling fresh.

One helpful trick is the “two-pot method”: place an empty pot in the ground and drop seasonal potted plants into it. When seasons change, swap the plant out easily without disturbing the rest of your layout.

Pruning regularly and choosing fewer, well-placed plants will create a cleaner, more intentional look.

Choose Larger Pavers

If you’re adding a patio or seating area, opt for larger, simple pavers. Bigger pavers reduce visual clutter and help make a small space feel more open and expansive.

Light-colored, neutral tones work especially well in compact yards. Avoid overly intricate patterns, which can visually shrink the space.

Invite Nature In

Even the smallest outdoor space can feel welcoming by adding simple natural elements. A bird feeder or bird bath introduces movement, sound, and life into your yard—making it feel calmer and more connected to nature.

Wall-mounted feeders or compact bird baths work well when ground space is limited and can even be incorporated into vertical garden designs.

Small Space, Big Impact

Designing a small outdoor space is all about smart choices. By building vertically, choosing multifunctional features, and keeping layouts simple, you can create a backyard that feels comfortable, intentional, and surprisingly spacious.

No matter the size of your yard, a little planning goes a long way in turning it into a place you’ll love spending time in—season after season.

green plants on brown wooden plant pots
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Raised Garden Bed 8x16 Western Red Cedar Gardening Kit Deer Fence Kit Outdoor Living Today Raised Garden Bed 2
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How to

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How to Find and Hire the Right Contractor for Your Project

Sometimes it makes sense to hire a contractor rather than take on a project yourself. From outdoor structures like gazebos and pergolas to interior renovations, having the right professional on your side can make all the difference.

Choosing the wrong contractor, however, can lead to delays, poor workmanship, unexpected costs, and even legal issues. The goal is simple: find someone who is reliable, experienced, and capable of delivering quality work from start to finish.

Whether you’re building new or upgrading an existing space, taking the time to hire the right contractor is one of the most important steps in the process.

Wooden gazebo with grill setup

Tips to Find and Hire the Best Contractor

There are several practical steps you can take to ensure you hire a contractor who is a good fit for your project and your home.

Trust Your Instincts

A contractor may be in and around your home for weeks or even months. If something feels off during early conversations, it’s worth paying attention to. You should feel comfortable communicating openly and confident in their professionalism. If you don’t trust them fully, it’s best to keep looking.

Hire a Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Contractor

Licensing and insurance are non-negotiable. A licensed contractor has demonstrated knowledge of building codes and required standards. Insurance protects both you and the workers if an accident occurs on your property. Always ask for proof of licensing and insurance before moving forward.

Choose a Contractor Who Specializes in Your Type of Project

Not all contractors are the same. Some specialize in outdoor structures, others in renovations or finishing work. Look for someone with experience in the specific type of project you’re planning. A specialist is more likely to anticipate challenges and deliver better results.

Get a Detailed Contract Before Work Begins

A clear, written contract helps avoid misunderstandings later. It should outline costs, materials, timelines, payment schedules, and any drawings or specifications. When everything is agreed upon upfront, you reduce the risk of surprises during the build.

Confirm Who Will Be Doing the Work

Find out whether the contractor will complete the work themselves or use subcontractors. Many projects involve multiple trades, which is normal, but you should know who is responsible for what. Clear communication helps ensure accountability throughout the project.

Set Guidelines for Working in Your Home

Before work begins, communicate any expectations you have about access, work hours, cleanliness, or use of facilities. Setting boundaries early helps avoid tension and ensures everyone is aligned from the start.

Understand Your Own Responsibilities

Clarify what the contractor expects from you before the project begins. This might include clearing the work area, securing pets, or removing valuables. A brief pre-project meeting can help define roles and prevent confusion.

Learn About Mechanic’s Lien Laws

In some regions, subcontractors or suppliers can place a lien on your home if they are not paid, even if you’ve already paid your contractor. Ask about lien releases and make sure payments are handled properly to protect yourself.

Review Work Samples

Seeing completed projects can tell you far more than references alone. Reviewing photos or visiting past work gives you insight into craftsmanship, attention to detail, and overall quality.

Look for Established Local Contractors

Local contractors with a long-standing reputation in the community are often a safer choice. Their business depends on word of mouth, and they’re more likely to stand behind their work. If issues arise, a local contractor is also easier to reach and resolve them with.

Take Your Time and Choose Carefully

Even with a solid contractor, projects can be stressful and costly. Rushing the decision can lead to bigger problems later. Take your time, ask questions, and compare options before committing.

Finding the right contractor helps protect your investment, saves time and money, and ensures your project is completed professionally and on schedule.

If you’re planning an outdoor structure and need inspiration, we’re always happy to help. Explore the many projects shared by our customers and create a backyard space you’ll enjoy for years to come with Outdoor Living Today.

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How to, sheds

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How to Winterize Your Shed and Protect It Through the Cold Months

A garden shed is one of the hardest-working structures in your backyard. It quietly weathers spring rain, summer heat, and fall cleanup—but winter is a different story. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and moisture can all take a toll if your shed isn’t properly prepared.

Because most people use their shed less during winter, seasonal damage often goes unnoticed until spring. Taking the time to winterize your shed in the fall helps ensure it stays sturdy, functional, and in great condition through the colder months—ready to welcome you back when warmer weather returns.

So how do you winterize your shed? A few proactive steps now can save you time, money, and repairs later.

Thorough Cleaning Comes First

Before winter sets in, give your shed a full cleanout. Over the growing season, sheds tend to become catch-all storage spaces for pots, tools, fertilizer, hoses, and equipment.

Start by removing everything from the shed so you can properly assess what you still need and what should be discarded. Broken pots, damaged tools, excess materials, and anything you no longer use should be disposed of. If you haven’t used an item in the last six months, it’s probably safe to let it go.

Once the shed is empty:

  1. Sweep the floor and remove dust, debris, and cobwebs
  2. Eliminate insects or pests that may have taken up residence
  3. Clean gardening tools thoroughly and store them in sealed plastic bags
  4. Drain garden hoses completely and coil them to prevent cracking
  5. Remove oil and gas from lawn equipment and cover machines with a tarp
  6. Store soil, fertilizer, mulch, and grass seed in sealed plastic containers to deter rodents
  7. Secure electrical cords so they don’t become tangled or damaged

A clean shed is not only easier to inspect—it also reduces the risk of pests and makes spring prep much easier.

Cabana 9x6 Cedar Garden shed Western Red Cedar cedar shed Outdoor Living Today 17
Cabana 9x6 Cedar Garden shed Western Red Cedar cedar shed Outdoor Living Today 18

Inspect and Repair the Interior

Once cleaning is complete, it’s time to inspect the inside of your shed for damage.

Check the floors, walls, and ceiling carefully. Look for small holes, cracks, or crevices and seal them with caulking to prevent cold air, moisture, and pests from entering during winter.

Pay close attention to:

  1. Areas behind shelves and wall-mounted hooks
  2. Window and door seals for cracks or worn weatherstripping
  3. Hinges and hardware that may need lubrication

If you have the time and budget, applying a fresh coat of paint to interior walls can refresh the space and help protect the wood. Waterproofing the floor is also a smart option if you store winter tools that may be damp from snow or ice.

Give the Roof Special Attention

Your shed roof takes the brunt of winter weather, so it deserves extra care.

Inspect the roof for signs of wear or damage:

  1. Metal roofs should be cleaned and treated to prevent rust
  2. Shingled roofs should have loose or broken shingles replaced
  3. Wooden roofs should be checked for warping, cracks, or insect damage

Replace any damaged panels and treat exposed wood to help prevent insects from boring into it. Cedar panels, commonly used in quality shed kits, are naturally resistant to pests and moisture, making them an excellent choice for long-term durability.

Also take time to:

  1. Replace rusted nails
  2. Reinforce loose panels
  3. Trim overhanging tree branches that could break under snow or ice and damage the roof
Cabana 9x6 Cedar Garden shed Western Red Cedar cedar shed Outdoor Living Today 15
Cabana 9x6 Cedar Garden shed Western Red Cedar cedar shed Outdoor Living Today Banner 2

Fix and Protect the Exterior

A final walk-around of the shed exterior helps catch issues before winter worsens them.

Inspect siding and trim for holes or cracks and fill them as needed. If you choose to repaint, use waterproof exterior paint and allow proper drying time between coats.

Clear away leaves, vines, and vegetation growing too close to the shed. Trapped moisture from plants can lead to rot and deterioration over time, especially during freeze-thaw cycles.

Ready for Winter, Ready for Spring

Winterizing your shed may sound like a big task, but breaking it into manageable steps makes it much more approachable. A little effort each day can have your shed fully prepared before winter arrives.

By cleaning thoroughly, making small repairs, and protecting both the interior and exterior, you’ll significantly extend the life of your shed and avoid major repairs down the road. When spring returns, your shed will be ready to use—no surprises required.

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backyard, DIY, How to

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How to Create a Kid-Friendly Backyard

Simple, creative ways to turn your outdoor space into a place for play, imagination, and everyday adventure.

When you have kids, you want to make sure they spend enough time outdoors to burn energy, explore their creativity, and simply be kids. With a little planning, your backyard can become a thrilling and fun adventure space—without disrupting your landscaping or turning your yard into chaos.

The good news is that creating a kid-friendly backyard doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. A few thoughtful features can transform your outdoor space into a place your kids will love and use every day.

Below are a few simple, creative ideas to help you design a backyard that encourages movement, imagination, and rest.

Laurens Cottage 9x9 Playhouse Western Red CEdar Outdoor Living Today Childrens Playhouse 9

Jungle Exploration

Create a sense of adventure by dedicating one corner of your backyard to a mini “jungle.” Plant tall grasses, ornamental shrubs, or weeping trees to add height and texture. Lay stepping stones to form a winding path that invites exploration and pretend play.

You can even plant giant sunflowers or place a large, smooth boulder for climbing. This type of space encourages kids to let their imaginations run wild while naturally drawing them outdoors—away from screens and electronics.

To keep things safe, trim plants regularly and avoid dense ground cover that could become a hiding spot for unwanted critters.

Scribbling Area

Every kid needs a place to create—and preferably one that isn’t your house walls.

Mount an outdoor chalkboard to a fence or wall and you instantly have a dedicated scribbling and drawing station. Chalk is easy to clean, and a chalkboard keeps little artists from decorating your cedar fencing or patio surfaces.

This simple addition gives kids a creative outlet while keeping messes contained and easy to manage.

Bring the Beach to Your Backyard

If your kids love sand and water play, bring the beach home. Instead of a traditional sandbox, consider digging a shallow, gently sloped pit and lining it with landscaping plastic before filling it with sand.

For added fun, place smooth stones around the edge or leave space in the center for evening marshmallow roasting while adults relax nearby. It’s a versatile space that works for daytime play and family evenings alike.

Haven for Creatures

Kids are naturally fascinated by nature. Encourage observation and curiosity by creating a backyard that welcomes birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects.

Plant colorful flowers, hang a simple bird feeder, or make one together using a terracotta container and jute rope. Watching birds and butterflies helps kids develop patience, awareness, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world—all while spending time outdoors.

A Place to Rest and Recoup

After all that running, climbing, and exploring, kids need a place to slow down.

A shaded rest area gives children somewhere to cool off, sip lemonade, and recharge. A gazebo is an excellent option, especially if you choose a DIY kit with pre-cut components that’s easy to assemble.

With comfortable outdoor seating and a few potted plants, this space becomes a calm retreat that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. An all-season gazebo even allows for outdoor use when the weather turns cooler, extending the usefulness of your backyard year-round.

Create a Backyard That Grows With Your Kids

A kid-friendly backyard doesn’t need to be overdesigned. The best outdoor spaces balance active play, creativity, and rest, while leaving room for kids to shape the space through their imagination.

With a few intentional features, your backyard can become a place where kids explore, learn, and make memories—right outside your door.

Need inspiration? Take a look at how other families are transforming their outdoor spaces and start creating a backyard your kids will love to grow up in.

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Children playing in a wooden playhouse.
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backyard, How to, outdoor living

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How to Prepare Your Garden for Fall

A little fall prep now goes a long way come spring!

rb128 overhead OLT

While spring is the time to plant and summer is the time to grow, fall is the time to prepare. As your plants begin to wind down and cooler temperatures take over, now’s your opportunity to set your garden up for long-term success. With the right fall gardening strategy, your spring planting will be easier—and more productive.

1. Walk Your Garden and Inspect Thoroughly

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Begin by walking through your garden and making detailed observations:

  • Look for bare soil patches that may need soil amendments

  • Identify overgrown plants that require dividing

  • Tag herbs that should be moved indoors

  • Note bulbs to dig up and store before the frost hits

This inspection gives you a game plan for fall garden prep and prevents surprises next season.

2. Move Tender Herbs Indoors

Herbs like rosemary, mint, and lavender won’t survive frost. Move potted herbs into a protected spot like a sunny porch or south-facing windowsill to extend your harvest. Bonus: you’ll have fresh herbs handy all winter long.

3. Add Soil Amendments Before Winter

Fall is the ideal time to boost your soil. Add organic fertilizers like:

  • Compost

  • Manure

  • Mulch

Use a garden fork to turn these into the soil. This ensures nutrients are absorbed throughout the winter, improving soil structure and microbial activity. This step reduces spring workload and results in better blooms and harvests.

For larger areas like a kitchen garden:

  • Till the soil to remove roots and weeds

  • Add amendments generously

  • Till again to incorporate nutrients deeply

Tilling in fall is easier and more effective than waiting for soggy spring conditions.

4. Apply Weed Control

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Weeds don’t rest. Apply a fall weed killer to your lawn to stop seeds dropped during summer from sprouting in spring.

Pet tip: If you use chemical weed killers, keep pets inside for a few hours until the product settles into the soil.

5. Collect Seeds for Next Season

If you’re growing heirloom varieties, now is the time to save seeds:

  • Allow a few flowers or fruits to fully mature or dry on the plant

  • Harvest and soak fruit in water to remove pulp

  • Dry and label seeds before storing in a cool, dry place

This preserves your favorite plants and saves money on seeds next year.

6. Empty Rain Barrels

Avoid cracked barrels! Drain and clean out your rainwater storage system before the first frost. Detach pipes and tubes, and let it fully dry to prevent winter damage.

7. Clear Mulch Away from Stems

Too much mulch near stems and trunks can lead to mold and mildew during cool, damp fall conditions. Gently clear mulch away from:

  • Shrubs

  • Perennials

  • Tree bases

This reduces moisture traps and promotes healthier plants.

8. Examine and Prune Perennials

Check all perennials for signs of disease:

  • Look for black spots, wilting, or rot

  • Prune affected areas or remove the plant entirely to prevent spread

Don’t compost diseased plants—dispose of them in the trash to protect your garden.

9. Check Trees for Dangerous Branches

Fall is a great time to inspect tree limbs:

  • Look for cracks, rot, or hollow areas

  • Schedule safe removal of unstable branches

This protects your home, pets, and people from falling limbs during storms or snow.

Get a Head Start on Spring

A well-prepared fall garden sets the stage for a low-maintenance, high-yield spring. By completing these fall garden tasks now, you’re making sure your soil is nourished, your tools are ready, and your plants are protected.

Want more backyard gardening tips? Browse our blog for seasonal advice, or contact us directly for help creating your ideal outdoor space with Outdoor Living Today.

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backyard, How to, outdoor living

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Garden Lighting Ideas: How to Make Your Outdoor Space Shine at Night

Spending time in the garden doesn’t have to end at sunset. With the right outdoor lighting setup, you can enjoy your backyard well into the evening. Whether it’s quiet family time or a lively get-together with friends, garden lighting adds safety, mood, and functionality.

Outdoor Candle Lanterns: Simple, Stylish, and Soothing

Candle lanterns are a timeless and affordable way to add glow to your garden. Choose scented candles with citronella oil to keep bugs at bay while creating a cozy atmosphere. Place them in:

  • Glass holders to protect the flame from wind

  • Colored or frosted lanterns for a whimsical touch

  • Hanging rope lanterns from branches or hooks for a fairy-tale effect

Their flickering flames create beautiful shadows and drama, making your garden come alive at night.

Battery-Operated Lights: Flexible and Functional

Battery-powered lights are perfect for areas where hardwiring isn’t practical. Place them in:

  • Arbors and trellises

  • Remote corners of the yard

  • Pathway edges for safer navigation

They’re especially useful in larger backyards where you only need occasional illumination in certain areas.

Outdoor String Lights: Festive and Functional

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Outdoor string lights are a must-have for dining areas, patios, or pergolas. Draped overhead or along fences, they provide ample ambient light while adding charm and character to any evening gathering.

Tip: Use warm white bulbs for a cozy feel or colorful LEDs for a party-ready vibe.

Outdoor Light Fixtures for Safety and Utility

Just like indoor lighting, outdoor spaces benefit from layered lighting. Consider:

  • Task lighting over barbecues and food prep areas

  • Pendant or hanging lights over outdoor dining tables

  • Step or post lights along paths and stairs

Choose lights with weather-resistant finishes and dimmer capabilities to adapt to various occasions.

Landscape Lighting: Highlight What Matters1212 12

Use spotlights or floodlights to showcase:

  • Trees and shrubs

  • Water features like fountains or ponds

  • Garden sculptures or focal points

Colored LED landscape lighting can create stunning effects and emphasize your garden’s best features after dark.

Pool and Water Feature Lighting

Got a pool or waterfall? Install submersible lights to create shimmer and motion in water at night. Be sure these installations are handled by a certified electrician, especially when local electrical codes apply.

Patio and Deck Lighting: Extend Your Living Space

Blend functional and ambient lighting around patios and decks with:

  • Recessed lights in stairs or deck boards

  • Wall sconces near doors or seating areas

  • Dimmer-enabled string lights or sconces for mood flexibility

Your deck or patio can double as a living room when properly lit, offering another reason to stay outside longer.

Final Thoughts: Outdoor Lighting for Every Garden

Whether you’re looking to create a romantic atmosphere, keep your walkways safe, or host nighttime dinners with friends, garden lighting brings beauty and practicality together. With a thoughtful blend of lanterns, string lights, and landscape fixtures, you can enjoy your outdoor space long after sunset—no matter the season.

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backyard, How to, playhouse kits

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Create a Backyard Fort Playhouse That Fuels Your Child’s Imagination

A backyard fort gives kids a space that’s all their own!

Remember how magical it was to have a secret fort as a kid? That cozy hideout where only you and your closest friends were allowed? Forts spark a sense of adventure, creativity, and freedom—and your child can experience all that and more with a backyard fort playhouse.

Whether you build one from scratch or opt for a ready-to-assemble kit, an outdoor playhouse gives kids their own space to dream, play, and grow.

Why Every Kid Deserves a Fort

Outdoor playhouses offer much more than just fun. They foster:

  • Imaginative play

  • Creative thinking

  • Independent exploration

  • Social bonding with friends and siblings

From defending a castle to hosting a tea party, the stories kids tell in their forts become the foundation of lifelong memories.

Design Essentials for a Fort Playhouse

Before building or buying your playhouse, consider these key elements:

Keep It Cozy

Forts should feel snug and secure. A smaller footprint (room for 2-3 kids) creates a better hideout atmosphere. Include a door, a few small windows, and low walls for safety and visibility.

Decor and Furnishings

Let your child help decorate their new space. Add a DIY flag, soft rug, cozy chair, or storage trunk that doubles as a bench. Glow sticks or battery-powered lights add a warm, mysterious vibe. Make sure everything is durable enough to withstand the elements.

Hidden Entry Points

Want to up the mystery? Install a secret entrance behind shrubs or trees, or create a crawlspace tunnel with a low door that only kids can access.

Fort Playhouse Materials: What Works Best?

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While plastic or vinyl structures exist, wooden playhouses are ideal for outdoor settings. Cedar, especially Western Red Cedar, is the top choice because:

  • It’s naturally resistant to rot and decay

  • It smells wonderful and repels pests

  • It blends beautifully into natural surroundings

You can build your own fort using pallets or timber, or choose a pre-designed playhouse kit from Outdoor Living Today made from high-quality cedar.

DIY Pallet Fort: A Fun Family Project

Want to build it yourself? Here’s a basic plan using wooden pallets:

  1. Lay down 1–2 pallets for the floor (use OSB for a smoother surface)

  2. Stand other pallets vertically to create walls, then screw into the base

  3. Sand down splinters for child safety

  4. Build the roof frame with 2x4s and galvanized panels for waterproofing

  5. Add fun accessories like flags, glow sticks, or toy storage bins

This is a great weekend project for parents and kids to tackle together!

Kits vs. Custom Builds: Which Is Right for You?

OptionProsCons
DIY From ScratchCustom design, creative bonding experienceRequires tools, skills
Professional BuildPerfect fit and pro finishExpensive
Cedar Kit (Best Value)Easy assembly, comes with all hardwareLess customization

Our recommendation: choose a cedar kit if you want something fast, sturdy, and child-friendly. Browse our playhouse kits for durable options that ship across North America.

Give the Gift of Adventure

An outdoor fort playhouse is more than just a structure—it’s a space for growth, storytelling, and freedom. Whether they’re hiding from dragons, reading a book in solitude, or dreaming up their next big idea, your child will benefit immensely from having their own space outside.

Add some shrubs around the fort for privacy, or let climbing plants create a natural green curtain. Whatever you do, just make it theirs.

Ready to give your child a magical backyard escape?

Explore Outdoor Living Today’s wooden playhouse kits and let the adventure begin!

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backyard, DIY, How to, outdoor living

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How to Keep a Lawn Fresh and Green

Lawn Care Tips for a Healthier, Greener Backyard

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A lush, healthy lawn doesn’t need to rely on harsh chemicals. With eco-friendly lawn care practices gaining popularity, homeowners across North America are learning how to grow green lawns using sustainable methods that benefit both their yards and the environment. Here’s how you can care for your lawn organically year-round, from mowing and watering to aerating and fertilizing.

🌱 Why Eco-Friendly Lawn Care Matters

Historically, lawn care has involved heavy use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. But overuse led to environmental harm and eventual legislation. Today, more homeowners are turning to organic lawn care practices—reducing chemical use while improving soil health, biodiversity, and water retention.

With the right care, your lawn can naturally resist pests and weeds without synthetic treatments. Start by embracing best practices that prioritize soil health, proper mowing, and sustainable watering methods.

💧 Watering Wisely

  • Summer Watering Tips: In hotter months, water deeply but infrequently to encourage strong root systems. Overwatering leads to shallow roots and rotting.

  • New Lawns: Newly seeded lawns need consistent moisture. Consider a sprinkler system or soaker hose to maintain even hydration.

  • Invest in Irrigation: Drip irrigation or programmable systems help reduce water waste and ensure consistent coverage.

🌾 Aerate for Healthy Soil

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  • When to Aerate: Aerate your lawn during the growing season (spring through fall) when soil is moist—either after a rain or a good watering.

  • Why Aeration Helps: Loosening compacted soil allows roots to breathe and water/nutrients to penetrate deeper. It also prevents thatch buildup and promotes microbial activity.

🌿 Organic Fertilizing and Feeding

  • Use Natural Fertilizers: Apply compost, worm castings, or organic fertilizer blends based on your soil’s needs.

  • Leave the Clippings: Grasscycling—leaving clippings on the lawn—returns nitrogen to the soil naturally.

  • Know Your Seasons:

    • Spring & Summer: Use nitrogen-rich fertilizers to promote growth.

    • Fall: Apply a lower-nitrogen blend to strengthen roots.

Pro Tip: Water within 2–3 days of fertilizing if it doesn’t rain to help nutrients absorb properly.

✂️ Mowing Best Practices

  • Mow by Season:

    • Spring: Expect rapid growth; mow more frequently.

    • Summer: Once a week is often ideal.

    • Fall: Bi-weekly mowing may suffice.

    • Winter: Avoid mowing in cold climates—let the grass rest.

  • Keep It Sharp: Dull mower blades tear grass, leading to browning.

  • Compost the Clippings: Turn them into rich organic matter for your garden or reuse directly on the lawn.

🌾 Weed Control Without Chemicals

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  • pH Matters: Test your soil—acidic soil can encourage weed growth.

  • Preventive Measures: A healthy, thick lawn shades out weed seeds naturally.

  • Manual Weeding: Pull weeds by hand or use a weed popper tool.

  • Organic Herbicides: Use vinegar-based solutions or corn gluten meal as a natural pre-emergent.

🌤 Seasonal Lawn Care Schedule

  • Spring: Aerate, fertilize, begin mowing. Watch for new weed growth.

  • Summer: Water early morning or evening; adjust mowing frequency. Spot treat any weed issues.

  • Autumn: Fertilize with root-boosting blends, rake leaves, and mow lower in final weeks.

  • Winter: Rest your lawn. Avoid walking on frozen turf to prevent damage.

🌍 Build a Sustainable Lawn

Lawn care doesn’t need to rely on chemicals. By focusing on soil health, watering smartly, and sticking to an eco-conscious lawn care routine, you’ll cultivate a resilient lawn that looks good—and does good for the environment. Whether you’re a beginner or a lawn care enthusiast, going organic is better for you, your pets, and your planet.

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backyard, DIY, How to, outdoor living

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Budget-Friendly Backyard Entertainment Ideas

Transform Your Backyard on a Budget

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You don’t need a fancy deck, grand cedar gazebo, or in-ground pool to enjoy your backyard. With a little creativity, you can create a fun, relaxing, and entertaining outdoor space your guests and family will love.

1. Hang Solar Lamps from Trees

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Repurpose an old chandelier using solar lights and hang it from a tree branch. No wiring or electrical work needed—just beautiful ambient lighting that charges during the day and glows at night.

2. DIY Bird Nesting Station

Fill a suet feeder with 4–8″ scraps of yarn. Birds will use them to build colorful nests. This simple project attracts local wildlife and offers a fun nature-watching opportunity.

3. Wind Chimes from Old Keys

Craft soothing wind chimes using old keys, acrylic paint, string, and a piece of driftwood. Paint the keys in bright colors, then string and hang them close together so they chime in the breeze.

4. Splash Pad Using a Tarp

Turn a clean tarp into a backyard splash pad. Add a sprinkler or hopscotch mat and let the water do the rest! Kids can slip, slide, and stay cool while you relax nearby with your feet in the water.

5. Kickball Croquet with Pool Noodles

Cut pool noodles in half to form arches, secure them to the lawn with garden stakes, and play a game of croquet—kickball style! Great for backyard parties and family fun.

6. Build a Backyard Movie Theatre

All you need is a projector, DVD player, speakers, and a screen (like a sheet or blank wall). Set up lawn chairs or picnic blankets, make some popcorn, and enjoy movie night under the stars.

Pro Tip: Use a surge protector and outdoor extension cord for power. Don’t forget mosquito repellant or citronella candles!

7. Backyard Scrabble

Make a giant 5-foot Scrabble board with concrete tiles and custom wooden letter pieces. Use adhesive vinyl letters and lacquer to waterproof your tiles. It’s a great family game that gets everyone outdoors and thinking.

Final Thoughts

These budget-friendly backyard projects are perfect for summer weekends, birthday parties, or spontaneous get-togethers. Whether you’re looking for kid-friendly backyard games, relaxing outdoor vibes, or ways to enjoy nature, these ideas bring joy without breaking the bank.

Outdoor Living Today offers everything you need to create your perfect backyard—from cedar sheds to family-friendly accessories. Explore our collection and bring your DIY dreams to life!

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How to Maximize Your Backyard Space for Play

Backyard Play Area Ideas for Kids: How to Clear Space & Create a Fun Outdoor Retreat

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Creating a dedicated play space in your backyard doesn’t just offer your kids a safe place to explore — it supports their mental and physical development while giving them the joy of nature. With a few creative changes and smart backyard shed storage, you can transform even the most cluttered yard into a functional play area for children.

Why Natural Outdoor Play Matters

Research shows that kids thrive in outdoor environments rich with natural elements — trees, flowers, insects, and open air. In fact, White and Stoecklin found that if given the chance, children would design play spaces brimming with natural features like ponds, plants, and wildlife. As a parent, you can bring this vision to life right in your backyard.

Step 1: Clear & Clean the Backyard

Remove Overgrown Bushes and Trees

Start by trimming or removing any overgrown shrubs and low-hanging tree branches. An open lawn makes a better canvas for a safe, imaginative play zone. You can replant with colorful flowers and maintain trimmed grass to create an inviting, open space.

Eliminate Rotting Plants and Weeds

Clear away any decaying plant matter and aggressive weeds. Not only does this create more usable space, but it also improves safety and aesthetics — two things kids (and their parents) appreciate.

Declutter the Odds and Ends

Old toys, broken bikes, garden tools, and unused lawn equipment often clutter backyards. Store what you still need in a shed or garage, donate working items, and toss the junk. You’ll reclaim valuable space for your kids to roam.

Step 2: Use Space-Saving Backyard Furniture

Opt for Foldable Furniture

Replace bulky wooden seating with foldable outdoor furniture. Lightweight plastic or collapsible options are ideal — easy to move and even easier to store in a shed when not in use. This keeps your backyard flexible and play-ready.

Step 3: Involve Your Kids in the Design

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Children are full of creativity. Let them help brainstorm how the play area should look. Whether it’s a flower garden, a mini wildlife pond, or just a cozy sandbox — your kids’ ideas will make the space feel like their own.

Step 4: Add a Shed for Storage and Play

Install a backyard shed to serve as both a storage unit and a part-time clubhouse. Opt for something practical like a Western Red Cedar shed — naturally beautiful and durable. Store seasonal furniture, tools, or even create a reading nook or board game station inside.

➡️ Explore cedar sheds at Outdoor Living Today

Step 5: Build Multi-Level Fun

Add depth and wonder to your yard with multi-level flower beds, stair-step planters, or seating platforms. Children love different vantage points and textures, so steps and platforms invite exploration and imaginative play.

Step 6: Install Kid-Friendly Play Features

Water and Sand Elements

Set up a sandbox, water table, or mini pond. Kids love tactile experiences — and these features keep them entertained without screens.

Add Play Equipment

Install a small swing, seesaw, or slide in a clear and safe area. Use natural barriers like flower beds or bushes to define the play zone.

Final Thought: Outdoor Play > Screen Time

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A well-designed backyard encourages kids to engage with nature and each other. With a few simple changes, you can create a playful sanctuary that your kids will love — and maybe even get them to forget about their tablets for a while.

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