The side yard is often the least considered part of our property. Perhaps too much shade makes growing healthy grass a losing battle. Or, not enough shade causes the same effect. It’s time to give your side yard much needed love with these ideas.

1. A Handsome Gate: Not only will a gate create security and privacy, you can bring a little intrigue to your side yard. Of course, this air of mystery is only enhanced if you implement one or more of these additional ideas!

2. Overhead Architecture: Imagine the beauty an arbor or pergola can bring to your side yard. Either of these structures can help define a narrow space and make the area a pleasant journey to the back yard.

3. Lighting: Unlit side yards can be a tad spooky. Consider adding either ground lighting (think solar) or overhead lighting for more ambiance and a less treacherous journey at night. Don’t forget mood lighting which you can use to illuminate trees and other focal points.

4. Vertical Garden: If space is at a premium, consider a vertical garden. Simply hang your garden from a fence or the side of your home. Hire a landscaping firm if you wish to go all out. If you prefer something less elaborate, wall planters are excellent vessels for your garden. Trellises are also another option for a vertical garden.

5. Potting Station: If your garden is in your back yard, move your workstation to the side yard where you have easy access to your materials without leaving the often unavoidable mess in full view.

6. Unexpected Path Materials: When space is at a premium, creativity reigns supreme. Build an interesting path with brick, crunchy gravel, or choose from a wide range of concrete pavers you can arrange in your pattern of choice.

7. Shady Areas: It is not unusual for homeowners with overly shady side yards to hoist the white flag and surrender to the insurmountable challenges before them. Try these ideas to utilize this valuable space:
– Plant tall ferns which do extremely well in the shade.
– Choose hearty vegetation like Hostas or Correa “Dusky Bells” that grow downward facing flowers on bushes three feet high and six feet wide.
– If space permits, create a private patio for morning coffee or after dinner wine. Even if you have a deck, this can become your intimate “go-to” space to escape the stresses of the day.

Over the years we’ve helped thousands of customers with their outdoor living spaces. Contact us today to discuss ideas for your own side yard upgrades.