8 Ways to Make Your Backyard More Productive

Most folks think of a backyard as a place to relax, but with a little effort, that space can actually start pulling its weight. You don’t need acres to grow food, raise animals, or create something useful. The key is setting it up in a way that works with your daily routine instead of adding to the chaos. Here are eight ways to make your backyard do more than just sit there.

Start a Garden Bed

You don’t need a big setup to grow food—just a few raised beds or even containers will do. Stick to stuff you actually eat and focus on high-yield plants like greens, tomatoes, or peppers.

We used scrap wood to build our first bed, filled it with compost and topsoil, and were harvesting within weeks. Keep it simple and close to the house so you’re more likely to stay on top of it.

Add a Compost Pile or Bin

Instead of throwing out kitchen scraps and yard waste, put it to work. A basic compost setup turns all that mess into free, nutrient-rich soil. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just a spot where it can sit and break down.

We use a three-bin system, but even a pile in the corner can get the job done. Once it breaks down, you’ll have black gold for your garden beds and potted plants.

Get a Rain Barrel Going

Water’s expensive—and in dry spells, it’s not always guaranteed. Hooking up a rain barrel to your downspout is a smart way to capture water for your garden or livestock.

Ours fills up fast during a storm, and it’s saved us a ton during the hot months. Just make sure you’ve got a mesh cover to keep mosquitoes out and a spigot for easy access.

Raise Chickens (Even a Few)

If your area allows it, a small flock of hens can make a big difference. You’ll get eggs, natural pest control, and compost material—all from a few birds and a coop.

Start small—three or four hens is plenty for most families. They don’t need a huge setup, just clean water, safe shelter, and a decent run. Plus, they’re fun to watch while you sip your morning coffee.

Use Vertical Space

When you’re short on ground space, think up. Trellises, vertical planters, and hanging baskets can help you grow more without taking over the whole yard.

We built a couple trellis arches for beans and cucumbers, and now they’re some of the most productive spots in the garden. It also keeps the fruit off the ground and easier to pick.

Grow Multipurpose Plants

Some plants pull double duty—like comfrey for compost, herbs for cooking and medicine, or sunflowers that feed you and the birds. Think beyond the typical vegetable list.

We planted a row of elderberries that look good, feed the bees, and give us syrup each fall. You don’t have to go all-in on permaculture, but picking plants with more than one use just makes sense.

Build a Firewood Rack or Shed

If you burn wood in the winter, your backyard should help with the prep. Stack and season your firewood where it stays dry and easy to access—ideally on a simple raised rack or inside a lean-to.

We keep ours close to the back fence with pallets underneath. It’s out of the way but still handy when it’s time to load the porch. Plus, you’ll never be short when the cold weather hits.

Set Up a Workstation or Potting Table

A small, dedicated spot for outdoor tasks saves time and keeps things organized. Whether you’re planting seeds, cleaning tools, or cutting rope, a flat surface makes a big difference.

We built a basic table from scrap lumber and stuck it under the awning. It’s now the go-to spot for odd jobs and quick repairs. Way better than crouching on the ground or dragging stuff inside.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.