5 ways to get more enjoyment from your backyard

If you love the idea of hanging out in your yard but it's not always the most appealing space, you're probably ready for a backyard makeover. The good news is, there's a range of simple things you can do to improve the experience of your outdoor space without having to become a master gardener or spend thousands on hardscaping and landscaping.

Here's a quick look at some recent backyard trends, along with strategies people are using to make the most of their outdoor spaces.

Create activity zones

Consider exactly how you want to use your outdoor areas, and who in the family will be using them. You might want to make a kids play zone, a quiet meditation spot, a cooking and entertaining hub or outdoor office — whatever you want to do outside, create each space in a way that supports that specific purpose.

You can use outdoor furniture and rugs, natural barriers like trees and bushes, large planters and simple structures like pre-made pergolas, gazebos or privacy screens to help define and divide spaces, then create the vibe you want for each one.

Overall placement of each zone matters. Find an out-of-the way nook for a yoga or relaxation spot that won't be impacted by noise from your kids' game area. Consider boosting outdoor lighting to illuminate evening entertaining, reading spots or your backyard work-from-home zone.

Make sure to prioritize comfort for every zone: Is there adequate seating? Simple benches, wall seating and Adirondack chairs might work, but can you provide more cushioned comfort? Do some spots need a shade sail or umbrella to minimize harsh sunlight at certain times of day? If you need more privacy, a slatted privacy screen or "living wall" full of growing plants can help separate spaces.

Embrace the chaos

If you don't have a green thumb, you may appreciate the "chaos gardening" trend. Chaos gardening simply means allowing your garden to be more natural rather than manicured, and planting a biodiverse, pollinator-friendly assortment of native wildflowers.

You may still want to weed a bit, to strengthen the plants you're encouraging to grow there, but you won't need to spend all your weekends tidying up these wilder gardens. And you still benefit from what makes most gardens beautiful: glorious color and the floral aroma that flowers provide.

Eat your garden

Another popular trend is the resurgence of the "kitchen garden," which you can easily grow in a raised bed or containers at first, keeping your workload to a minimum. Some hardy, low-maintenance options include cherry tomatoes, zucchini, lettuce, scallions (green onions) and green beans. For herbs, try basil and oregano, mint, parsley and chives.

Think about the type of food you like to make (and eat!) when choosing what plants to grow. Love Italian food? Basil, oregano and tomatoes are a must. Enjoy Mexican cuisine? Grow cilantro and a variety of spicy peppers, like jalapenos.

Even better, many of these options can be started indoors, making them a simple choice for beginning gardeners. Kids may enjoy getting in on the act, too.

Have a lot of outdoor space? Consider growing squash, watermelons and pumpkins in your yard. Just make sure that whatever you grow, you're protecting your garden from marauding critters by using fencing, fine-mesh cages or netting. Consult your local garden center for the most effective ideas appropriate for your region.

Boost your wellness through exercise

You may already have an established quiet zone for meditation or yoga, but you may also want areas where you and your kids can play active games, get some physical exercise and have fun together. Beyond elaborate play structures, consider sparking excitement by creating an obstacle course or scavenger hunt in your yard.

Classic yard games are also making a comeback, so you may want to set up a badminton net or get (or make) a cornhole set. You could also try croquet, horseshoes or even ultimate Frisbee, depending on the amount of space you have, and your kids' ages.

Keep pests to a minimum

If bugs in your yard are keeping you from enjoying the outdoors, basic pest control methods can make a difference. Natural techniques include keeping your grass mowed and not allowing brush or leaves to pile up. You'll also want to ensure there's no standing water in your yard, like in clogged gutters, where mosquitos can breed.

Some pests are deterred by the scent of mint, marigolds and lavender, so consider planting these fragrant plants around your yard. And those native flowers you're encouraging on your property also attract predators like dragonflies and birds that eat insects.

By creating spaces designed to meet your needs, you'll be much more likely to enjoy your time outside. Let your imagination be your guide, and get ready to enjoy your backyard paradise!