Between warmer temperatures and extra time spent working at home, it seems everyone is flocking to their yards. We’re no exception and are actively continuing with backyard ideas that we started last summer.
Now is the perfect time to make your backyard an oasis with a little makeover to impress your guests. Today we’re sharing 21 easy tips to help you turn your backyard into an oasis.
Use Plants to Your Advantage
We all have that ugly fence corner or spot in our yard that we hate to look at, not to mention that odd opening where our neighbors can see directly into our yard. Have no fear because you can turn your backyard into an oasis with your plants.
Create a privacy wall using your favorite quick-growing bushes or vine plant. These can be planted or placed in cute pots to form the perfect cover. This will help create a more upscale feel to your home + help your yard feel like an outdoor oasis.
Add Lights
This may seem simple but adding different lights to enhance your desired style can make your yard into a backyard garden oasis. Add string lights across your patio or incorporate solar-powered garden lights to help create more ambiance. This year we’re adding a few simple, solar wall lights along our new horizontal planked fence to bring the modern style to life.
Invest in Items That Last
When it comes to buying for your outdoor oasis, it can be difficult to commit to spending a lot of money on items that are outside 24/7. Unfortunately, that often means we end up buying something low quality and uncomfortable.
If you truly want to be creating a backyard oasis, treat it like one! Invest in furniture and accessories that are actually comfortable and useful. One of our favorites includes this outdoor furniture set from Article.
We also can’t live without some of our favorite items from Dorai. That includes our Bath Stone, which we use while watering our outdoor plants, along with our Stone Coasters and Stone Saucers, which we bring out whenever we’re hosting a BBQ.
Create Shade
We love catching some vitamin D on our balcony or patio. But to be comfortable all summer long, shade is essential. Add a cute umbrella (we love this list) or add a vine-covered pergola.
We finally invested in a proper pergola with a canvas covering (which we’ve been talking about for years but never got around to actually doing) during a Memorial Day sale. It makes it so much more enticing to have guests outside without requiring an audacious construction project. Shade is a practical and chic way to make your own outdoor oasis!
Eliminate Weed, Without Harsh Chemicals
On the topic of practical backyard oasis ideas, we removed our grass last year and opted for turf mixed with rock. We hoped that the days of pesky weeds would be behind us, alas weed lived up to their reputation and returned. We’re not quick to grab for the Round Up, knowing the main ingredient Glyphosate can be harmful to humans, but we also needed a solution.
After some research, we opted for Preen. While it does require you to pick all existing weeds, it’s a safe and effective preventative after it’s been properly applied. According to their website, “Preen Natural Vegetable Garden Weed Preventer is made with 100 percent corn gluten, a natural herbicide that works as a pre-emergent — it keeps weed seeds from sprouting. And, Preen Natural Vegetable Garden Weed Preventer is safe to use around children and pets.”
We’re hoping it’s a bit more effective than the Sunday Weed Treatment we used last summer.
Create a Gathering Place with a Cozy Fire Pit
Nothing says backyard oasis like a fire pit. It’s the perfect spot for roasting marshmallows or just gathering with loved ones on cool evenings. Your fire pit can be anything from a simple metal bowl to something more elaborate, made from stone and bricks. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to become the heartbeat of your backyard.
Soothe Your Senses with a Water Feature
Water features are a must-have for any outdoor oasis. The sound of running water is naturally soothing and can turn your backyard into a tranquil retreat. Whether it’s a small fountain, a bird bath, or a full-fledged pond, water features add a peaceful ambiance to your garden.
Lounge in Style with Comfortable Outdoor Seating
Creating a backyard oasis means having the perfect spot to sit back and relax. From plush outdoor sofas to cozy hammocks, choose seating that invites relaxation and conversation into your yard. Mix and match furniture styles for a personal touch, and don’t forget to add some colorful cushions for extra comfort.
Define Outdoor Spaces with an Elegant Rug
An outdoor rug can magically tie the different spaces of your backyard together. It’s amazing how something so simple can transform a patio into a sophisticated dining area or a deck into a chic lounge space. Just be sure to choose a rug that’s weather-resistant and complements your existing outdoor decor.
Entertain with an Outdoor Bar or Kitchen
If you love hosting, an outdoor bar or kitchen can be a game-changer. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about creating an entertaining space where memories are made. With a well-equipped outdoor kitchen, you'll be the envy of your neighborhood block.
Swing into Relaxation
Imagine gently swaying in a hammock or a swing chair, book in hand, and not a care in the world. They’re the perfect additions to turn your backyard into an oasis where you can truly unwind. Pick a swing or hammock that matches the rest of your backyard’s vibe and start swaying your stresses away.
Build Charming Garden Pathways
Garden pathways do more than guide you through your yard. They also add charm and character. Whether winding or straight, made of stone, brick, or wood chips, pathways invite exploration and admiration in your backyard garden oasis.
Add Personality with Outdoor Art
Outdoor sculptures or wall art can transform a plain backyard into a gallery under the sky. Make your backyard an oasis by selecting statues, sculptures, or other pieces that reflect your personality and taste.
Build a Butterfly and Bee Garden
Planting flowers and shrubs that attract butterflies and bees not only adds some biodiversity to home, but also brings life and color to your backyard oasis. It's a beautiful way to connect with nature and contribute to your local ecosystem.
Add Some Privacy and Elegance with Outdoor Curtains
Outdoor curtains not only provide privacy but also add an element of luxury to your patio or pergola. They can soften the space and make it feel more like an outdoor room.
Maximize Space and Style with a Vertical Garden
A vertical garden is a smart and beautiful way to turn your backyard into an oasis. Try planting a living wall of herbs, a trellis of flowering vines, or even a collection of wall-mounted planters. Vertical gardens are especially great if your backyard is a small space.
Add Serenity with an Outdoor Yoga or Meditation Space
Turn a tranquil corner of your garden into a personal retreat with an outdoor yoga or meditation space. Whether it’s a small deck with a comfortable mat or a shaded grassy area, make a spot that becomes your go-to for peace and rejuvenation. Add a few cushions, a soft blanket, or even some soothing wind chimes to increase the serenity of your outdoor oasis.
Design a Children’s Play Area
Kids need their own space to explore and play. Adding a playground to your backyard not only keeps them entertained but also adds a lively vibe to your garden. Think swings, a sandbox, or even a small climbing frame.
Just make sure it's safe, secure, and visible from your main seating area. This way, you can create a fun and worry-free zone for your little ones while still lounging in your own space of your backyard oasis.
Stage Your Garden with Decorative Planters and Pots
Here's a simple yet effective way to make your backyard an oasis – use decorative planters and pots. Besides making great housewarming gifts, they're perfect for adding splashes of color and personality.
Go quirky with unusual shapes or classic with elegant designs. Cluster them in corners, line them up on steps, or hang them from porches. Each planter can be a reflection of your unique style.
Plant Your Own Herb and Vegetable Garden
There’s nothing like the taste of home-grown produce. A dedicated herb and vegetable garden not only provides fresh, organic ingredients for your kitchen but also adds a lush, green touch to your backyard garden oasis.
Plant herbs like basil and mint alongside vegetables like tomatoes and bell peppers. Growing your own herb and vegetable garden is rewarding, sustainable, and an absolute delight for any home chef.
Set the Mood with Ambient Outdoor Speakers
Installing weatherproof outdoor speakers can transform your backyard garden oasis into your own personal concert venue. Perfect for relaxing afternoons or lively garden parties, speakers can set the right mood for any occasion. Just connect your playlist, and let the music add an extra layer of ambiance to your outdoor oasis.
