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Do-It-Yourself Tranquil Backyards

Many people take their backyards for granted while others use them for tranquil outdoor space. While you can spend a lot of money having a professional set your backyard up like an oasis, there are ways to accomplish this goal yourself. Planning is the key to completing your tranquil backyard as once you have it all planned, you can take a trip over to your local home improvement store and use their knowledge and your elbow grease to get it done.

Things You'll Need

  • Patio furniture
  • Paint or stain
  • Flowers
  • Shrubs
  • Pavers
  • Decking
  • Shovels
  • Rake
  • Trough
  • Wheelbarrow
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Instructions

    • 1

      Draw the shape of your backyard on a piece of paper to plan the elements that will exist in your tranquil backyard. Tranquility means different things, so think about what you would like to add to the project. Draw a main sitting area that is surrounded by lush shrubs and flowers or imagine a clear space where you and family can sit and relax free of vegetation. Plan well so that no issues come up during the creation of your new tranquil backyard.

    • 2

      Clear the spot for the main sitting area. Use existing decks or patio areas for your backyard as they will lower the amount of work you will need to perform. Spruce up old wooden decks with a fresh coat of stain and sealant or pressure wash concrete slabs to make them loo better. Pick a theme for the furniture you want and buy enough for you as well as family and guests.

    • 3

      Add a water feature. Although expensive, you can add a small fish pond, bridge or waterfall to your backyard. Water features add tranquility and can drown out the sound of noisy nearby streets or neighbors. Dig the hole for the feature, add your irrigation system and decorate with vegetation around the feature to add to its beauty. Consult with a professional if the work load is too much for you or your family.

    • 4

      Add vegetation you would like to your backyard. Determine which plants will thrive in your area and plan their locations before starting. Use plants and shrubs as walkways for paths in your backyard and use plants to cover up unsightly fences and other problem areas in your yard to add to the over feeling of tranquility. Pick vegetation that goes well together with a theme, such as Asian or Hawaiian gardens, and choose plants that fit well.

    • 5

      Add a sound system to pipe soothing music into your backyard. Place rock shaped speakers throughout your backyard for surround sound and choose music that soothes you while you are relaxing back there. You can also add a television or monitor to flash pictures of your vacation or relaxing images that help you relax after a hard day of work.