Welcome to your backyard, where the birds chirp, the sun shines, and the neighbor’s dog occasionally digs up your begonias. Jokes aside, the backyard is a great opportunity to get creative with a space that feels like an extension of your home. As the temperatures continue to warm up, you’ll want every excuse to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Here are a few ways to turn your backyard into your own personal oasis.

1. Start with a blank canvas.

Before you can transform your backyard into a tranquil paradise, you’ll need to clear the clutter and set the stage for greatness. It’s always way easier to work with what you’ve got and grow from there. For example, if you have a deck or fence, consider giving it and the rest of your outdoor space a fresh coat of paint or stain to breathe new life into tired surfaces. Fill in any pathways that have lost stones or overgrown and pull out the weeds taking over the area. Trim the bushes, mulch flower beds, and pick up anything that could be causing an eye sore. A little effort can completely transform your backyard without having to add a single thing!

2. Embrace the greenery.

Now it’s time to let nature take center stage. If your backyard is looking a little dull or empty, you can fix this by adding more green — or color. Planting a mix of flowers, shrubs, and trees adds beauty to your backyard. As an added benefit, it also brings the space to life by attracting beneficial insects like butterflies and birds.

Another idea, especially if you’re strapped for space is creating a vertical garden. Add hanging planters or trellises to maximize space and add vertical interest. Take things even further by incorporating edible plants like herbs and vegetables into your landscape for a functional—and delicious—twist. And don’t be afraid to get creative with containers—think repurposed wooden crates, colorful ceramic pots, or even vintage tin cans.

3. Create zones of zen.

Every backyard retreat should have designated areas for rest and relaxation as well as opportunities for outdoor entertainment. Consider installing a pergola or canopy to provide shade and shelter for your seating area. Add outdoor rugs and throw pillows for a cozy touch that invites guests to linger.

For the more adventurous souls, why not create a DIY fire pit for roasting marshmallows and swapping stories under the stars? And don’t overlook the power of sound—invest in a Bluetooth speaker or wind chimes to set the mood and drown out unwanted noise. With a little creativity, your backyard can become the ultimate destination for unwinding and entertaining alike.

4. Incorporate water features.

There’s something undeniably soothing about the gentle sound of flowing water. Add a water feature to your backyard retreat to create a sense of tranquility and serenity. A simple tabletop fountain or birdbath can offer a focal point. If you really want to roll up your sleeves and do something more dramatic, install a pond or waterfall feature complete with aquatic plants and fish. Don’t have the space or budget for a full-scale water feature? No problem—go for a DIY recirculating fountain using a repurposed container or planter.

5. Light it up.

When it comes to outdoor lighting, the possibilities are endless. Start by incorporating overhead string lights or lanterns to create a warm, festive glow that extends into the night. Consider adding solar-powered stake lights along pathways or around flower beds for added safety and ambiance. For a bit of drama, install uplighting to highlight trees, sculptures, or architectural features. And don’t forget about practical lighting—invest in motion-activated floodlights or pathway markers to help you safely navigate after dark.

6. Add personal touches.

Finally, don’t forget to infuse your backyard retreat with elements that reflect your unique personality and style. Add unique, additional seating or a cozy reading nook complete with a hammock, swing chair, or hanging daybed. Bring the coziness of the indoors out with layering touches like colorful outdoor rugs, vibrant throw pillows, or quirky garden art to add character to your backyard.

Knock out a few birds with one stone by hosting a brunch-meets-DIY crafting part to create personalized garden markers, painted rocks, or mosaic stepping stones. And don’t overlook the power of scent—plant fragrant herbs like lavender or rosemary, or add essential oil diffusers to create a sensory experience that delights the senses.