It is not always easy to decide which landscaping ideas are best when you have a small yard. Less space means you may not have a wide variety of growing conditions (full sun, partial shade, etc.), which limits your planting options. Your patio may serve double duty: outdoor dining area and kids’ playground. You may even start to think it’s simply not worth investing in a space that can’t grow.

Don’t lose hope! Landscape designers are prepared to tackle any outdoor challenge—including small yards. With the right amount of texture, color, and unique accessories, your small yard can blossom into something spectacular.

Consider these easy ideas:

Choose Smaller Blooms and Petite Shrubs

If your yard’s square footage is lacking, the last thing you want to do is cover surface area with giant fronds and towering sunflowers. Choose plants and blossoms that match the proportions of your lawn and walkway. Keep your hedges trimmed so small entries don’t look even more cramped.

Create a Division Diversion

A lot of small properties lack space between the adjacent homes. In older neighborhoods and city blocks, it’s very common for folks to see straight into neighbors’ windows. You can use landscaping to add distance by delineating your small yard with a low fence or a wall of shrubs. You may want privacy that extends above the ground floor on either side of your home, but keep street-facing borders waist-high so your yard is still somewhat open.

Take Advantage of Cozy

Instead of viewing “small” as a setback, take advantage of your close quarters. Build a pergola with overhanging vines. Wrap your backyard fencing in roses. Opt for swanky, low-slung seating that creates a cabana vibe. Whatever your theme, it’s easier to achieve when space is finite.
 
Get Geometric

Long, straight lines trick the eye into seeing a space that’s larger than reality— especially when the lines converge at a shared, middle point. Give your yard three-point perspective with symmetrical rows of hedges that extend from your doorway in a V-shape. Complete the look with symmetrical posts or baskets on either side of your opening.

Say Goodbye to Grass

Imperfections are more noticeable in small areas. If your small yard isn’t great for growing lush grass, nix the green stuff altogether. Build a stone patio in a cool pattern. Working with landscape designers, you can find material to complement any home style—whether you prefer modern and sleek or colonial-type cobblestone.

Creating an interesting landscape in a small yard is not impossible. All it takes is determination, creativity, and the right team of landscaping partners.