Landscaping Ideas in Boalsburg, PA That Actually Make You Want to Be Outside

Most yards are running on autopilot. A stretch of grass, a few plants here and there, and maybe a patio set waiting for a reason to be used. Not exactly inspiring.

If you're looking for landscaping ideas, chances are you want more than a tidy yard—you want a space that feels like something. Something you actually enjoy. Something with personality.

It doesn't take a massive overhaul or a magazine crew to get there. A few smart, thoughtful choices can completely shift how your outdoor space looks, feels, and works for your day-to-day. Not maintenance-heavy. Not overly precious. Just good design that makes you want to spend more time outside.

Let's explore a few ideas that do exactly that.

Key Takeaways

• Thoughtful landscaping ideas don’t require a full makeover—just smart choices that add function and beauty.

• Designing your yard around how you actually use it creates spaces that feel personal and practical.

• Features like vertical gardens, low-maintenance ground covers, and smart irrigation add lasting value without constant upkeep.

The Plant That Thrives When You Forget About It

Once you start seeing your yard as more than just green space, the question then becomes, "What actually belongs here?" Not every plant deserves a spot. Some demand constant attention, and others will wilt if you blink so much at them the wrong way. But then there are the quiet winners—the ones that show up, look great, and ask for almost nothing.

Drought-tolerant plants fall into that last group. And no, they're not just for arid climates. Many of them are native plants that are perfectly suited to your region's quirks—hot summers, surprise frosts, and unpredictable rainfall. They're also great at filling in gaps where the lawn struggles or mulch gets tired. They're problem-solvers that double as showstoppers.

Creeping thyme creates a lush, aromatic carpet. Ornamental grasses sway with the breeze and need next to nothing. Black-eyed Susans are colorful, cheery, and practically unbothered by weather swings. These kinds of choices lower maintenance and boost curb appeal in a way that feels natural and not staged.

What If Your Backyard Had Zones Like Your House?

Once the right plants are pulling their weight, it's time to think bigger than flower beds and borders. A truly well-designed yard should be functional too. And the easiest way to get there is to borrow a little wisdom from interior design.

Inside your house, every space has a purpose. The kitchen, the living room, the cozy reading nook—you don't question the layout because it flows. That same logic applies outside.

A garden bench under a tree becomes your reading corner. A gravel patch with string lights and a café table become instant outdoor dining. Even a simple stretch of lawn can be framed to feel like a space made for play or lounging.

These zones don't need fences or foundations to feel distinct. Just a shift in materials, a change in furniture, or a well-placed arbor can signal that this space is for something. Want to prep veggies from your own garden bed just steps away from the grill? That's layout working for you. Need to keep wild soccer games away from delicate blooms? Zoning helps with that, too.

It works even better for small areas. Clear, intentional spaces make a tight yard feel curated and not cramped. It's landscape design that's more about rhythm than renovation.

Put Your Garden On The Wall

Not every landscape needs to stretch wide. Sometimes, the smartest move is to build upward. Vertical gardens offer a bold way to turn blank walls, fences, or even the side of your house into living, breathing design elements.

Forget the overly curated social media versions—this is about function as much as form. Wall planters can hold herbs just steps from your kitchen door. A trellis covered in clematis softens a hard fence line.

Layered pockets of leafy greens or cascading flowers add color and movement where space is tight.

It's even better for small areas. You get the feeling of a full garden bed without sacrificing valuable ground space. For bigger properties, vertical elements add structure and height, giving the whole yard a more intentional, modern feel.

And just like that, a plain corner or ignored wall becomes the part of your backyard that makes people stop and stare.

The Anti-Lawn Revolution

Lawns are familiar, but they're not always functional. They demand time, water, and endless upkeep—only to give back a patch of green that's often underused. A growing number of homeowners are trading grass for something better.

Ground covers like clover and moss bring softness and color without the high maintenance. They stay low, grow fast, and don't mind if the hose skips a few days. For sunny spots, creeping thyme creates a fragrant, flowering alternative. In shadier areas, moss forms a lush, spongey surface that feels unexpectedly luxurious underfoot.

Replacing even part of a lawn with these options adds texture and visual interest while reducing the constant cycle of mowing and watering. It's also a boost for pollinators—clover and thyme are magnets for bees and butterflies.

This shift steps away from tradition and embraces a softer, more natural style that fits both modern aesthetics and a more conscious way of living. And now that the ground's been reimagined, let's look at how to make it a little more edible.

Yes, Your Landscape Can Feed You

A well-designed yard works harder. And one of the simplest ways to level up your outdoor space is to make it edible without losing any of the charm.

Edible landscaping involves choosing plants that do double duty. A pair of blueberry bushes offers structure, seasonal color, and fresh fruit. Herbs like rosemary or basil slide easily into any garden bed, adding texture, scent, and something to toss into dinner. Even vegetables can find their place—cherry tomatoes trailing from a raised planter or rainbow chard tucked in beside your perennials.

Edible plants bring shape and movement to the garden—plus the unexpected delight of harvesting something from your own property. In smaller areas, vertical planters or container gardens can carry the load without taking up much space.

And as with every good idea so far, the effort is minimal compared to the reward. Your yard becomes more personal, more flavorful, and maybe even a little more fun. Let's take that feeling and layer in something equally useful: privacy.

Privacy Without the Fence

Not every property line needs to be marked with a wall. There are quieter, softer ways to create separation.

Tall ornamental grasses move with the breeze and create instant height. Layered shrubs and perennials can build a natural screen that changes with the seasons. For a more structured look, climbing plants like clematis or jasmine trained up a trellis offer vertical coverage and blooms at eye level. Even a line of large planters can define a space without closing it in.

These options block views and enhance them at the same time. A well-placed green screen becomes part of the landscape design and not just a workaround. And unlike a solid fence, natural privacy lets in light, invites wildlife, and shifts with the seasons.

It's one more way to shape your yard into a place that feels both open and personal.

Let The Water Run Itself

Some parts of landscaping sparkle. Others just quietly make everything work better. Smart irrigation falls into that second category and while it may not steal the spotlight, it's the backbone of a stress-free yard.

Putting the right amount of water where it's needed—without turning on a hose or dragging a sprinkler across the lawn—can make all the difference. Drip systems, soil moisture sensors, and app-controlled timers handle the hard part so you can enjoy your garden without constantly managing it.

If you've planted a vegetable garden, added flower beds, or simply want the trees and shrubs near your house to thrive, a smart watering system keeps things consistent. It adapts to weather, avoids overwatering, and helps you use less water overall—which is good for your plants and your budget.

It's the kind of upgrade you only notice when it's missing. But once it's in place, everything from your perennials to your patio planters just looks better with far less effort.

Conclusion

These landscaping ideas aren't about flash—they're about fit. Thoughtful choices, smart design, and a little creativity can turn any outdoor area into something that feels intentional and lived in. When your yard works the way you want it to, everything else outside just gets better.

Looking for a Fresh Take On Your Outdoor Space?

At Landscape II, we bring yard landscaping ideas to life by combining design, plants, and smart solutions that make sense for how you live. From simple upgrades to full-scale transformations, we'll help you create a landscape that's beautiful, usable, and anything but ordinary.

Let's make something great outside. Book a FREE consultation with us today to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest type of landscaping?

The most budget-friendly landscaping ideas often rely on natural elements and smart planning. Mulch pathways, gravel seating areas, and native plants are all great options that reduce cost and long-term upkeep. Repurposing materials—like using stone offcuts or reclaimed wood—can also help you stay within budget while creating something unique.

What is the best low-maintenance landscaping?

The best low-maintenance landscapes are built around native plants, perennial flowers, and ground covers that thrive in your local climate. These options need less water, less pruning, and bounce back season after season. Pair that with simple elements like raised garden beds, drip irrigation, or a few well-placed trees for shade, and your outdoor space practically runs itself.

What are the 4 categories of landscaping?

Landscaping is often divided into four main categories: softscaping (plants, grass, garden beds), hardscaping (patios, walkways, fences), water features (ponds, fountains), and lighting (for safety and ambiance). A well-balanced design blends all four to create an outdoor area that's both functional and beautiful.

What is the cheapest way to landscape?

Start small and build with intention. Focus on one area—like the front yard or a simple garden bed—using inexpensive but impactful materials. Sow seeds instead of buying full-grown plants, edge your lawn cleanly, and skip the extras until the essentials are in place. 

Beautiful landscaping doesn't have to come with a big price tag—it just needs thoughtful design that works for your space and budget.