Totally get what you mean about the “yard sale for weeds” look—been there myself. There’s a fine line between wild and just plain messy, right? I like your idea of adding some structure without losing that relaxed feel. It’s all about balance. Sometimes just a few borders or a path can make everything look intentional, even if the rest is a bit unruly. Honestly, I change things up every year too... keeps it interesting.
I get the appeal of structure, but isn’t there something kind of magical about letting things go a bit wild? Sometimes buyers are drawn to that “secret garden” vibe, even if it’s not perfectly manicured. Ever notice how some spaces just feel more alive when they’re a little unpredictable? I’ve actually had more luck selling properties with a bit of that untamed look—makes people imagine their own possibilities. Maybe it’s not always about tidying up every edge...
Totally get what you mean about the “secret garden” vibe. There’s something cool about a space that feels a little wild, like you could stumble on a hidden path or some surprise flowers. But I’ll admit, I’m always torn between letting things go and keeping it tidy—mostly because my wallet prefers low-maintenance.
Here’s what’s worked for me:
- Less mowing = more time for coffee breaks (and less gas money)
- Native plants basically take care of themselves, which is great when you’re not looking to spend big on landscaping
- A few “wild” corners actually hide the spots where I ran out of mulch... nobody seems to notice
“Maybe it’s not always about tidying up every edge...”
Couldn’t agree more. Sometimes those rough edges make the whole place feel more relaxed and lived-in. Plus, if someone asks, I just call it “intentional natural landscaping.” Sounds way fancier than “I got tired halfway through.”
“intentional natural landscaping.” Sounds way fancier than “I got tired halfway through.”
That cracked me up—pretty much sums up my backyard approach too. I started out thinking I’d keep everything neat, but honestly, the wild bits just took over and now I kind of like them. The birds and bees seem to prefer it that way, plus it saves me from constantly weeding. I do get the itch to tidy up sometimes, but then I remember how much less work this is.
The birds and bees seem to prefer it that way, plus it saves me from constantly weeding.
Honestly, that’s the best part—less work and more wildlife. I used to think a “proper” yard meant everything trimmed and edged, but after seeing how much money I was spending on mulch and weed killer, I just let nature do its thing. Now I get butterflies and goldfinches, and my wallet’s happier too. Sometimes I wonder if we overthink curb appeal when the real value is in enjoying the space ourselves.
