Imagine spending your summer evenings sitting on new patio furniture, under twinkling lights, surrounded by beautifully potted plants or a thriving vegetable patch. You can make that a reality this summer after completing just a few easy garden projects that won’t break the bank.

By creating a beautiful, useful backyard garden, you gain extra space to share with family and friends. Spend a little time (and a little money) getting your hands dirty with one or more of these DIY garden projects, and you can spend the rest of your summer relaxing in a beautiful backyard.

1. Garden Walkway

Walkways and paths are almost always featured in large and elaborate gardens. Add one using stone, gravel or brick to lead people from your backdoor to your garden or patio. This project will add an elegant look to your backyard and encourage you to step outside more often.

2. DIY Garden Furniture

The simplest way to increase the amount of time you spend in your yard is to add seating. We know patio furniture can be expensive and doesn’t always hold up to the weather but building the right DIY garden furniture can add to your backyard without breaking your budget.

3. Decorate With Unusual Garden Planters

Another easy garden project is adding decorative planters throughout your yard. This DIY garden project is a great choice no matter the size of your outdoor space. If you’re decorating a small backyard patio or a porch, transform unique objects into planters to fit where you need them. If you’re trying to improve your backyard privacy in a large yard, use wooden pallets as standing planters that double as a screen.

4. Raised Garden Bed

Add functionality to your backyard by building a raised garden bed. A raised bed in your backyard will provide a simple way for you to grow your own veggies and encourage you to spend time outside tending your plants. Raised garden beds are great because they help reduce weeds, prevent soil compaction, provide good drainage and serve as a barrier to pesky insects.

5. Garden Lighting

Simple garden lighting will add a friendly glow to your backyard and is a must-have for summer evening parties. This easy DIY garden project works great with any of the ideas above. Improve your new stone walkway or DIY garden furniture by accenting it with patio lights.