Did you know that backyard landscaping can increase your home’s value anywhere from 5.5% to 12%? (Source: Weekend) Backyards are more than just a place to relax; they’re a wise investment for the future of your home. But a beautiful backyard doesn’t just happen by accident. It’s about using the right materials, having a solid design, and keeping things maintained through the seasons. 

Let’s walk through a simple, step-by-step plan to build a beautiful backyard that’s both functional and sustainable. 

In This Blog 

We’ll break down how to: 

• Pick the best base material for backyard landscaping 

• Get your backyard drainage and grading right 

• Understand the balance between hardscaping and softscaping 

• Stick to easy seasonal backyard maintenance tips 

1. Start from the Bottom: Pick the Right Base

Your base materials set the tone for the entire space. Want a lush lawn? You’ll need rich topsoil. Planning a patio or playground? Washed pea rock or cobblestone can create a clean, durable surface. Prefer a low-maintenance garden bed? Use mulch or decorative stone to achieve this. 

Here’s a quick breakdown: 

• Topsoil :

  Perfect for lawns, gardens, and flower beds. Helps roots grow deep and strong. 

• Washed Pea Rock: 

  A versatile 3/8” stone that comes in natural colors including buff, rust brown, gray, white, and translucent. It’s an excellent, long-lasting alternative to mulch in flowerbeds and playground bases and footings. 

• River Rock :

  Available in 1” and 2” sizes, river rock provides a finished look for landscaping and erosion control. It works well in flower beds, plant beds, gardens, and around water features. Multiple color variations help enhance the look of outdoor spaces. 

• Cobblestone & Boulders: 

  Great for pathways, creek beds, drainage areas, and decorative borders. We offer 3–8” Iowa-field cobblestones that add structure and visual interest while supporting erosion control. 

You don’t need to choose just one. In fact, many great yards use a combination depending on function and style.  

You don’t need to choose just one. Many great yards use a combination. 

2. Smart Drainage Tips for Your Yard

Even the most gorgeous yard won’t last if water isn’t managed well. 

That’s why backyard drainage and grading are so important. Without them, you’re asking for standing puddles, soggy soil, and even damage to your home’s foundation. 

Here’s what you should know: 

Problem	Fix
Water pooling near home.	Re-grade the yard to slope away (2% slope = 2″ drop over 10′)
Soggy lawn or garden beds	Add a French drain or gravel trench.
Poor absorption	Use permeable pavers or crushed stone to help water soak in.

Good drainage is invisible. But you’ll notice the difference when your yard stays dry after every storm. 

3. Mix It Up: Hard vs. Soft Landscaping 

Think of your backyard as a balanced meal. You need structure and softness. That’s where hardscaping and softscaping come in. 

• Hardscaping: These are the “non-living” parts: patios, retaining walls, pavers, and fire pits. 

• Softscaping: The “living” layer; trees, grass, shrubs, flower beds. 

Legacy Materials offers popular hardscape materials such as: 

 • Washed pea rock 
• River rock (1″ & 2″) 
• Cobblestones & boulders 
• Crushed stone 
• Decorative stone blends 

Softscaping pairs well with: 

 • Topsoil 
• Mulch 
• Compost-amended soil mixes 

A yard with only hardscaping can look like a parking lot. Too much softscaping becomes difficult (and expensive) to maintain. The best spaces combine both — stone for structure, plants for life and color. 

Using local landscaping materials not only looks more natural but can also reduce costs. 

4. Keep It Fresh: Seasonal Upkeep Tips 

Even the perfect backyard needs care. However, don’t worry; it’s simple if you plan for the seasons. 

Here’s a seasonal cheat sheet: 

Season	What To Do
Spring	Clean up debris, add mulch, aerate the soil and plant.
Summer	Mow high, water deeply, and trim regularly.
Fall	Rake leaves cut back perennials, and fertilize.
Winter	Store tools, prune trees, and plan for next year.

Little effort lawn design can save a great deal of work later. Just 30 minutes a week can keep your yard in top shape. 

Final Thoughts: Your Dream Backyard Is Within Reach 

Creating a backyard you love doesn’t need to cost a fortune or take months of work. All you need are the right landscaping materials, smart design choices, and a little seasonal care.  

And if you’re looking for trusted, locally sourced materials, Legacy Materials has what you need. From gravel for patios to topsoil for lawns, we’ve got the basics covered to benefit your space in every season. 

Ready to Get Started? 

Whether you’re just updating one corner of your yard or planning a complete makeover, now is the perfect time to get started. Let’s build the kind of backyard you can’t wait to step into.  

Visit Legacy Materials to browse our selection of backyard essentials get expert guidance or call us today at 515-432-7333 to speak with our team and start your project with confidence.