You can create a zen rock garden or an oasis of plants and it is not as difficult as it may seem. To do this you will need to make several additions and improvements to your garden.

Transforming your backyard into something bigger takes effort. Now, more than ever, we understand the importance of outdoor living and maximizing every inch of our homes. Here are ways to transform your backyard into the ultimate summer oasis.

How do You Make a Zen Garden at Home?

#1 Stone Garden

How do I turn my backyard into an oasis on a budget? Try building a Japanese rock garden at home. It contains carefully arranged stones in a bed of sand or gravel. To enhance texture and interest, it can also include elements such as mosses or small plants.

When selecting the ideal Japanese garden for yourself, consider various factors. These include the space you have available, your level of experience, and your taste. Additionally, think about whether you intend to use the zen garden for meditation or simply as an aesthetic addition to your home.

#2 Water Features

A backyard oasis can be transformed into a serene retreat with the addition of water features. Consider installing a pond with aquatic plants and fish or a cascading waterfall to create soothing sounds, depending on the available space.

If space is limited, opt for a small self-contained fountain or a wall-mounted water feature. Enhance the visual appeal by balancing the water feature with surrounding rocks, gravel, or lush plants to create an attractive focal point.

#3 Incorporate Bug-Repelling Plants

Insects and other bugs can turn your outdoor area into an undesirable place, no matter how beautiful and well-maintained it is. Instead of relying on bug spray, take preventive measures to keep bugs at bay by planting bug-repelling flowers and plants.

The plant identifier app will help you with this, it not only identifies plants but also helps you select them. Through the plant app, you can learn more about the characteristics of a plant.

For example, you can learn about its properties, such as attracting pollinators, repelling insects, and being a home for butterflies. The reason why this is the best plant identifier app for iPhone is that it offers comprehensive information about the plant and its care.

This app for plants will help throughout the entire life cycle of a plant: from the stage of its selection to harvesting in the fall. Just one app for an iPhone is enough to quickly identify a plant and learn everything about it.

While citronella grass is known for its bug-repelling properties, numerous other plants serve the same purpose. You can opt for chrysanthemums, basil, petunias, and even lavender. Planting these herbs and flowers not only helps deter insects but also enhances the visual appeal of the space.

#4 Take Care of Shaded Oases for Relaxation

When crafting your perfect outdoor retreat, it’s vital to prioritize ample shaded areas. You can achieve this by strategically placing comfortable seating around the base of a tree to utilize natural shade or by installing awnings or building pergolas for custom shade. Providing areas of refuge on scorching hot days is crucial.

If you’re investing in this space, maximizing its usability should be a priority, even during peak heat in July and August. Creating multiple furnished areas with abundant shade increases the likelihood of enjoying your retreat more frequently.

#5 Outdoor Lighting

To extend the usability and create an enchanting ambiance in your backyard oasis during the evening, install soft, warm lighting around seating areas, pathways, and key focal points.

You can enhance the cozy and inviting glow by utilizing string lights, lanterns, or LED fixtures. Dimmers or timers can be installed to adjust the intensity and schedule of the lighting to suit different occasions.

#6 Outdoor Speakers

Enhance your backyard space with outdoor speakers, whether you’re hosting parties, enjoying movie nights, exercising, or simply unwinding. These speakers come in a variety of budget-friendly options and can seamlessly blend into any space.

Utilize these speakers to set the perfect ambiance during gatherings, stream live sports games, or even create a sense of security by playing deterrence noises to ward off unwanted critters or intruders.

#7 Create Outdoor Entertainment Area

Make your backyard oasis even more enchanting with a dedicated outdoor entertainment area. Set up an outdoor projector and screen for movie nights under the stars, surrounded by comfortable seating like outdoor sofas or lounge chairs.

Add cozy blankets or throw pillows for extra comfort. Want to elevate your outdoor movie experience? Consider installing an outdoor sound system to enhance the audio.

Conclusion

In any zen oasis, plants will occupy a central position. These can be flowers, shrubs, or a well-groomed lawn with fruit or ornamental plants.

However, their beauty can be emphasized with water elements, decorative elements, etc. The tips listed will benefit your rock garden because many of them do not require large financial investments.