All About My Backyard

Remember the post all about my backyard that I shared here a few years ago? Well, we have since changed a few things, as you might have noticed. Several people have asked about the design and landscaping. I thought it would be best to give you updated information all about this space.

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Where We Started

Before I move on, I found a few “before” pictures of our backyard that I wanted to share. I can’t believe how far it has come!

Before we started on our backyard, we sketched out ideas/a plan as to what we wanted back here. To make the most of the small space, we decided to split it into two main patio areas with a variety of plants in the background. We wanted to add the retaining wall to separate the plants and the patio area. The stamped concrete and 2′ retaining wall were done by a local independent contractor. Using cement screws, string lights were hung along the perimeter of the fence to add a warm, cozy ambience. I have the string lights on a timer during the summer so that they turn on at the same time every night. Eventually, lava rock was added around all of the plants.

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Patio Cover

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The biggest change we made back here since the last time I shared this space was the installation of our Alumawood patio cover. We found a local expert to install it (thanks to our neighbor’s recommendation). Since we had the existing retaining wall there already, we decided to just build on top of it rather than tear it down. The roof color of the patio cover is Sonora Beige. The trim color is called Graphite.

We decided to have two fans installed and also added a tv to the wall under the patio cover. I really love how it turned out! It is like a cozy outdoor living room. The extra shade from the patio cover is so wonderful, especially during the hot summer months. We spend so much more time out here now.

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Plants

We have a huge variety of plants back here that I get asked about often. I actually don’t know the names of every single one, but I will do my best to identify the commonly asked-about plants.

I usually try to fertilize my plants a few times a year. I like to use Miracle Gro for palm trees and Miracle Gro for flowers. In regards to the questions I get about bugs, we have an exterminator that comes and sprays every 3-4 months. Other than a few lizards, we don’t see too many unwanted guests back here. 🙂

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Patio Spaces

When you walk outside from our sliding back door, the first area you see is our little patio dining area. Originally, I had a sitting area here with four chairs and a coffee table. I recently updated this space with a small table set and umbrella just to have an area to eat and/or enjoy my morning coffee. Click on image below for links to sources.

The second area where we hang out back here is under the patio cover. I usually have my relaxing little fountain on (which you have probably seen on my IG stories). In this space, we like to watch movies or just listen to music and talk.

My sofas, chairs, and tables were from WalMart several years ago and I don’t see them available any more. I replaced the cushions on my furniture and those are still available (linked below). My rug is discontinued, unfortunately. I linked similar items and other decor below.

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Hope This Helps

Hopefully this helps answer some of your questions and gives you different ideas for what can be done in a small backyard space. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any additional questions. As always, thanks for stopping by!

This post wouldn’t be complete without including my famous photo bomber, Chip.

If you want to see my previous post about my backyard prior to the changes we recently made, click here.