Once in a while, the outdoor space needs an update to seem fresh again.
You don't have to tear everything up to make changes and give your outdoor space a new look and vibe. There are smart, small upgrades you can do using the right materials, and they don't require too much effort. The difference will be more than noticeable, and the best part is that you don't have to pay for a full renovation to achieve that.
If this sounds interesting to you, this guide is perfect to inform you about budget-friendly ways to refresh your outdoor space, and you can do it all over the weekends.
Also, there's useful info on sourcing materials and planning.
If you are looking for a quick way to refresh flower beds, garden borders, or walkways, check what's underfoot.
Mulch has many benefits, from revitalizing plant beds to suppressing weeds, conserving moisture, etc. And aesthetically speaking, it gives a polished look. Usually, a standard mulch layer of 2-3 inches is enough.
Soil/compost improves plant health. If beds are compacted or depleted, you can mix organic compost or planting soil. It will help the roots breathe and grow.
Edging keeps borders clean and divides the lawn from the bed.
Material | Typical Use | Price Estimate (in USD) | Pros/Notes |
Hardwood mulch (bulk) | Flower beds, under shrubs | $40-$70 per cubic yard | Looks natural, needs refresh yearly |
Decorative stone/gravel | Paths, drainage areas, accent beds | $50-$180 per cubic yard | Less frequent work is needed, which helps with drainage |
Compost/planting soil | Amending existing beds | $55-$70 per cubic yard | Boosts soil health, can be pricey to ship |
Basic badging (plastic, metal) | Border control, shape definition | $2-$5 per linear foot | Easy to install, DIY friendly |
Prices are approximate, material only. On these prices, you need to add delivery, labor, or site prep to count the total.
Refreshing garden beds will make quite a difference, but other surfaces and smaller features also set the tone for how your space will feel. Even minor updates here can lift the rest.
2 zones to prioritize:
Power wash decks, patios, and sidewalks.
Seal, stain, or reseal wood surfaces, or reseal pavers/concrete to keep moisture out.
Repaint or refinish planters, benches, and furniture for cohesive color.
Install solar or LED pathway lights for ambiance and safety.
Install decorative boulders, statuary, or garden sculpture for focal points.
Substitute worn-out furniture cushions, throw pillows, or outdoor mats.
A big investment isn't required for each refresh. It is useful to plan in categories:
Quick wins: These are the tasks that can be finished within a couple of days or so at a minimal expense. A few examples include adding fresh mulch, edging garden beds, planting a couple of new shrubs, or putting in solar lighting. Prices will range from $50-$200, depending upon the material choice.
Moderate refreshes: More involved projects like updating a path, building raised planters, or installing a trellis. These will take a weekend or two and run $200-$800, depending on size.
Larger refreshes: If you want to do more extensive changes, such as putting in a new patio, building a firepit area, or redoing the entire garden design, it'll cost you over $800, and you will need to hire the pros.
It's as important to know where to shop as it is to know what materials you require.
Local nurseries, landscapers, or specialty supply yards have superior quality or pricing to big-box retailers, particularly for bulk materials.
When lifting stones, soil, mulch, or gravel, residents usually find local (nearby) suppliers by searching for the term 'landscape supply near me' online. Buying locally can help reduce delays, breakage, and loss, plus you're helping your community!
Sourcing tips:
Order a little bit more than you think you will need (5-10% excess) to allow for settling, trimming, and mistakes.
Reclaim or repurpose materials where possible.
Ask suppliers about leftovers or second-grade material that is still on hand but at a reduced price.
A refresh only lasts if you put effort into maintaining it.
Replace or turn mulch layers once a year to maintain color and performance.
Trim shrubs or plants so they don't conceal new edges.
Clean paved surfaces to avoid staining or accumulation.
Check for drainage issues – pooling water may damage plant health/hardscaping components.
As you can see, you can make big changes and refresh your entire outdoor space without the need to pay for a full renovation. Just focus on the right materials, cover basics, and do some cosmetic upgrades that are effective and budget-friendly.
Your plants will be healthier, and you’ll get basically a new outdoor space for relaxation and gatherings.
