If you live in Arizona, you’re probably looking for Arizona backyard ideas on a budget. There are many ways to beautify your backyard without spending too much money, no matter where you live. We’ll provide some ideas in this article and information on the growing zones for different cities and some of the plants that grow well in them.
Do it yourself.
Do the work yourself whenever you can. Invite friends and family to help. You’ll be surprised how much cheap labor you’ll attract if you offer a barbecue and beer party as payment. Sure, you’ll all be dirty, sweaty, and tired at the end of the day, but your yard will look great!
Use the right plants.
It’s easy to get carried away at the garden center when looking at gorgeous plants. I hate to think of the money I’ve wasted purchasing plants that didn’t make it through one season.
Research your growing zone
Before you hit the nursery, do some research – find out what plants do well in your growing zone. Decide on the areas of your yard that receive full sun, partial sun, or are totally shaded. Use plants suited for different conditions in your yard.
Depending on where you live in Arizona, your growing zone could range from 4b to 10b. Find out what growing zone you’re in. Some growing zones for different cities are:
- Flagstaff – 6a
- Show Low – 7a
- Prescott – 7b
- Bisbee – 8a
- Safford – 8b
- Globe – 9a
- Ajo – 10a
Some plants commonly used in Arizona and their hardiness zones are:
- Sweet acacia – zones 9-11
- Freeman maple – zones 3-9
- Southern catalpa – zones 5-9
- Western redbud – zones 7-9
- Century plant – zones 9-11
- Four-wing saltbush – zones 6-10
- Bird of paradise – zones 9-11
- Red-osier dogwood – zones 3-8
Get creative with planters
Using containers on the front porch or patio is a great way to incorporate a few colorful annuals into your landscape plan. You can choose your favorite blooms to suit each season without buying flowering plants in large quantities.
Thrift and repurpose
If you have priced decorative plants lately, you know they’re expensive. Consider repurposing items you already have or buying inexpensive ones at garage sales instead of buying planters. You can quickly turn old buckets, tubs, wooden crates, watering cans, or even a wheelbarrow into a creative planter.
Incorporate gravel and mulch.
Adding gravel or mulch to your budget landscape plan can add style and architectural detail. Garden paths are a great way to break up the expense of lawn and planting beds. Use crushed stone, shells, or mulch instead of pavers or concrete to create a meandering path.
Plan your path
Use spray paint to draw out the path. Remove sod to repurpose in another area, then bring the length and width measurements to a local garden center to purchase the right amount of fill. Cover bare soil with landscaping fabric to prevent weeds.
Use edging
Next on our list of Arizona backyard ideas on a budget, we have edging. To prevent material from spreading into surrounding areas, place edging on the sides of the path. You can use bendable plastic edging or use plants for a more natural look. If you use crushed stone or gravel, compact it with a hand tamper or roller.
Use what you have
If you have existing landscaping, preserve healthy plants and trees to save money. You can easily transplant small shrubs and trees.
Lilies, irises, and agapanthus rhizomes can be divided and replanted in other beds. If you have inherited trees and plants, do research, and educate yourself about proper care and maintenance.
Take advantage of free stuff
Many cities around the country offer free mulch, compost, and trees to their residents. They expect homeowners to use them to beautify their yards and neighborhoods. Arizona has a program that provides composters to residents for $5 to make their own dirt at home.
Check out demolition sites.
If you need brick and stone for your landscaping project, check out demolition sites as a free material source. Make sure you get permission from the job site owner before taking anything.
Make end-of-season purchases
Late summer and early fall are the best times to purchase shrubs, trees, and perennial plants. You might even be able to find deals on mulch and soil. Make sure plants you buy in fall are hardy enough to survive winter. Most trees and shrubs do best when planted in fall – it gives them time to establish roots before the summer heat.
More quick tips for cheap landscaping
Make an inspiration file
Consider looking through magazines and websites for ideas that inspire your landscape design, much like you would for an interior decorating project. Clip and print photos and make a reference file before you start working.
Research
Consult local colleges and county extension agents when planning your landscape. Their free advice might prevent costly mistakes. You can find useful gardening information at the library and on reputable websites.
Comparison shop
Don’t buy plants and supplies from the first store you see. Before buying, check several local nurseries, garden centers, and home centers. Their prices and quality can vary widely.
Keep emotions in check
Don’t get suckered into buying colorful, exotic plants because they remind you of your vacation. Consider your growing zone when choosing plants.
Buy used
You’d be surprised by the gardening deals you can find at the garage and estate sales. Not only can you purchase tools and basic supplies, but you can even buy plants occasionally.
Avoid overplanting
When planning where and how much to plant, remember mature plant sizes. Don’t think that every square inch of your home must be covered in plants. You’ll be removing and transplanting overcrowded plants next season if you do.
That’s what you need to know about Arizona backyard ideas on a budget. Following these suggestions will help you create a beautiful backyard without breaking the bank.