The first step in any landscape renovation is to assess the area. You can save a great deal by re-using items.

Previously I had removed three overgrown arborvitae. That left me with a pretty clean slate. The only things left were some Tiger Lilies and an assortment of vines and ivy.

Those remaining plants were carefully dug up. They were put in an out of the way place to await a new planting spot. They will be watered regularly.

The existing landscape timbers were removed also. The only reason this was done is because I plan on changing the size and shape of the bed.

Tilling the bed area was the next step. This broke up the soil and assists when you’re ready to grade the area. Quick tip-Sometimes you can’t till all the way into a corner. Shovel that soil into the middle where it can be worked up as well.

Once the new bed design was worked out I laid out an area for a stepping stone walkway,

Landscape timbers were cut to size and put into place. I then double checked to be certain I was happy with their placement. Holes were then drilled through each end of the timbers. The timbers can then be secured with 12inch lengths of reinforcing rod driven through the previously drilled holes.

Next I’ll install the stepping stones, re-seed some lawn and decide what to plant.

I’ll see you in the backyard!

May 11, 2008

The project is coming along very well. I have added a few more things into my project but the costs are still pretty low. At this point I have spent $109.00. I expect to complete all of it for under $250.00.

I’ll have cost breakdowns and additional information soon.

I’ll see you in the backyard.

May 27, 2008

The project has been completed!

The entire area around our house was renovated for only $204 out of pocket.

$64 was spent on plants. The most expensive plant purchased cost $20. Five gallon sized perennials were bought for $19. The remaining $25 was spent on annuals and perennial flats. A great way to stretch your budget is to buy perennials in flats rather than individual pots.

$90 was spent on mulch. I still have some left so that can be saved for another project.

Solar landscape lighting was added for $16.

16 patio stones were purchased for $24. These were used for a walkway to our front door. They were also used for a walkway to the mailbox.

By re-using some existing stepping stones I was able to extend a walkway to our patio. The stones were place in the pea gravel walkway. $6 spent on pea gravel added the additional length to the walkway.

$4 spent on bulk grass seed was necessary to repair any disturbed grass areas.

Other than re-using existing materials, I used four landscape timbers I had on hand. I also built two trellises from material I had on hand.

My key to savings was re-using everything I could and buying smart. The mulch and lighting were purchased at sale prices. I also looked for promotions where you spend a certain amount and save so much on your order.

I try to buy all my plants at local places. The hard goods[mulch, stepping stones]- I will buy where I can find the best price.

I may add a few additional plants yet. These will come from family and friends as I help them with some transplanting in their yards.

I found wonderful results from $204.

Watch for pictures soon!

EDIT: The pictures can now be found by clicking the link at the top of the main page marked photos.

June 4, 2008

I’ll see you in the backyard!

Doug Russeau