Disclaimer: I am not a landscaper, but I was definitely born to be one. I come from a long line of ‘ladies from the prairies’ who have made landscaping or ‘fixing up the yard’ a way of life. They did this with a pile of kids underfoot (my Grandma had 13 kids! She must look at me struggling with my four and just laugh at me), 6 loaves of bread in the oven, and possibly while in a constant state of pregnancy. Given this legacy, I have no reason not to fulfill my landscaping destiny other than being completely lazy.
Landscaping ideas for backyards
When I was 16, I didn’t even want to put my hands near a pile of dirt, and I definitely didn’t want to help my Mom when she dug up the entire backyard and turned it into a garden. Looking back, I have to admire her for that now, even though she only planted potatoes. Seriously.
Funny how time changes things. These days, I find myself obsessed with transforming the backyard into something more than just a patch of grass and memories. Whether it’s the scent of mesquite in the firepit or the feel of smooth pavers under bare feet, there’s a certain satisfaction in shaping an outdoor space to fit real life—quiet coffee mornings, weekend BBQs, or just staring at the sky without stepping off the patio.
Of course, that kind of transformation takes more than enthusiasm. It calls for the right layout, materials, and a team that knows how to bring all the puzzle pieces together. Somewhere between sketching ideas and sourcing stone, I came across https://masonrytucson.com/, which helped me understand the balance between function and form. Because whether you’re installing a custom firepit or designing the perfect paver flow, it’s about making the space feel like it belongs—just like Mom’s potato garden, but with fewer dirt piles and a lot more intention.
I’ve lived in this house for 9 years, and I have never tackled the backyard short of putting sod down and installing a large playground. I’ve always looked at the fence line and thought there must be an easy landscape trick I could pull to make it look nicer, but of course I could never quite figure it out. Until one day, a few months ago, I just picked up a shovel and started digging. The result is in that photo right there, and it wasn’t even that hard. Here’s how I did some easy landscaping in the backyard:
- Dug a straight line along the fence line, going around the apple tree. I removed all of the clumps of grass straight into the corner and put them in yard bags (which were nasty to try to pull out to the curb).
- I bought flats of pansies and begonias, moved some of my little trees I had carelessly dropped here and there, replanted a sad fern and hosta that were literally hiding in a shady spot and not growing.
I used to have a garden too. It was in a corner, small and neglected, and it was only a spot for strawberries to grow should the sun even actually hit them. When I saw that the local cats had taken it over as their litter pan, I decided enough was enough and got rid of it. Before I mulched it up, I took out all of the strawberry plants and put them up here:
As you can see, all of my plants are now hanging on the fence, with the exception of the carrots. I’m currently growing peas, lettuce, tomatoes, strawberries, and I’ve just planted a butternut squash.
Tune in next time for more landscaping ideas, as I continue to dig along the fence and explore the mysterious world of shade plants (which, let’s face it, should be required reading for someone who lives in the Pacific Northwest.)
If you’re looking to transform your outdoor space into something both beautiful and functional, now’s the time to consider a thoughtful landscaping installation. It’s not just about planting what looks pretty—it’s about designing with intention. Whether it’s raised beds for veggies, pathways to guide the eye, or cozy corners for relaxation, landscaping adds structure and flow to your garden. Those dreaming of turning their blank backyard canvas into a purposeful retreat can absolutely do it—with the right vision and a bit of elbow grease.
For those who want expert guidance (or just don’t feel like moving a wheelbarrow full of gravel), collaborating with a pro makes all the difference. Experts from Michaelangelo’s Sustainable Landscape & Design brings an eye for detail and a commitment to environmentally-friendly practices. They specialize in installations that respect the land—think native plants, smart irrigation, and natural materials that age gracefully. Whether it’s a full-scale redesign or small updates along a fence line, they make the process seamless.
And let’s not forget the often-overlooked shady spots—perfect for creating serene woodland nooks. If you’ve got areas under trees or along the north-facing fence, they’re ideal for ferns, hostas, or bleeding hearts. Landscaping there can soften hard lines and add lush texture. As I keep digging (sometimes literally, sometimes metaphorically), I’ll share more ideas for crafting a yard that feels less like a project and more like a place to pause.
Once you’ve dialed in the greenery and those tranquil woodland corners, why not take it a step further with a functional, charming addition? A backyard shed can be both practical and aesthetic—perfect for storing tools, housing a potting bench, or even carving out your own quiet retreat. The best part? You don’t have to build it from scratch. With MSB Shed Kits, it’s easier than ever to get a sturdy, stylish shed delivered right to your door, ready to assemble with minimal fuss. It’s a smart way to complete your backyard oasis—no blueprint headaches or contractor wrangling required.
