15 guides
Backyard and patio guides
Plain-English guides to planning and caring for your backyard. We don't sell anything, and no brand or landscaper pays us.
Planning
Layout, sun, digging safely and budget.
- Plan your backyard
Decide how you'll use it first.
- Map sun and shade
Watch your yard for one day.
- Call 811 before you dig
It's free, and it's the law in many places.
- Budget a backyard project
Materials, tools and delivery.
Ground cover
Mulch, gravel, pavers and lawn alternatives.
- Mulch basics
Two to three inches, away from trunks.
- Make a gravel path
Simple, cheap and drains well.
- A small paver patio
A level base is everything.
- Lawn alternatives
Less mowing, less watering.
Easy planting
Low-care plants, containers and watering.
- Low-maintenance plants
Right plant, right place.
- Container gardening
Great for patios and small spaces.
- Water wisely
Deep, early and at the roots.
Living outside
Lights, fire pits, shade and wildlife.
- Outdoor lighting
Safe paths, cozy evenings.
- Fire pit safety
Check the rules, then keep it safe.
- Add shade
Cooler seats on sunny days.
- A wildlife-friendly yard
Birds, bees and butterflies.