Landscape Ideas for Small Side Yards

Create Outdoor Rooms

• Consider your outdoor space as you do the interior of your home. By dividing the area into small "rooms" you will create the illusion of a much larger space. For example, make a seating area near the entryway to your home, with a play area in one corner of the yard and a flower garden in your small side yard. By creating separate areas that are tied together with lawn or a pathway, you will increase the amount of time the yard will be enjoyed.

Water Feature

• Just because your side yard is small does not mean you have to do without the soothing sound of water cascading. Small ponds and water features are available in kits and are easily installed. Water fountains in many different shapes, sizes and designs are also available and have the added luxury of being movable if needed. Install a water feature in a quiet corner of the yard and fill the surrounding area with flowers that attract birds and butterflies. A comfortable chair or bench will give you a place to relax and enjoy the environment.

Container Gardens

• Consider using containers to add flowers to your small side yard. This is an excellent option for a yard that is mostly deck or patio, with little ground planting available. Multiple sizes of containers can be planted with everything from small bushes to herbs for the kitchen. Make sure each container is placed in the proper area to receive the correct lighting and that water is available as they may need to be watered more often than a ground planted garden.

Go Vertical

• Small side yards may lack in square footage but can be enhanced by going vertical. Consider a pergola, trellis or even a fence to help support your gardening activities. A pergola can easily be built and planted with vine-type flowers that will cover the entire upper area. It has the added benefit of providing additional shade to a hot and sunny yard. A trellis can be hung from a house or fence and will also support any number of vine-like plants. Consider hanging baskets filled with flowers and plants from fences to add additional height to your garden.