10 Quick & Simple Ways to Upgrade Your Edmonton Lawn

If you've ever glanced at your yard and thought it could use a little sprucing up, you're in the right place. Think of your Edmonton lawn as the canvas, and you, the artist, are ready to transform it into a masterpiece.

Luckily, keeping a healthy lawn has never been easier, and there are literally dozens of ways that you can change its look and feel to meet your personal style or tastes.

Let us walk you through ten impactful ways to take your lawn from "just okay" to "jaw-droppingly gorgeous." From the roots to the shoots, these tips are designed to be quick, easy, and fun.

So, grab your garden gloves, and let's dig into it!

1. Diversify your grass selection.

Switching up your grass type is smart landscaping 101, and you want to choose one that suits the cool Edmonton climate. Not all grasses are created equal. Some thrive in our chilly springs and hot summers better than others. By introducing a variety of seeds tailored to Edmonton’s weather, you can ensure your lawn stays resilient all year round.

This might mean blending Kentucky bluegrass with resilient fescues or experimenting with ryegrass for quicker recovery from wear and tear.

If you’re unsure where to start, a chat with our local GreenKeepers can help you pick the perfect grass mix.

2. Add grading to your lawn.

Why settle for a flat canvas when you can sculpt your Edmonton lawn into a work of art? Adding some gentle hills or subtle valleys can dramatically change the look of your outdoor space, giving it depth and a more natural feel.

These contours are great for aesthetics and enhance drainage, guiding rainwater away from your home and into areas where it can be absorbed by plants. But before you grab your shovel or dial up a bulldozer, remember to check with local utility companies.

3. Add water features.

Imagine the tranquil sound of water trickling in your own backyard—a small pond or a sleek fountain can make this a reality! Adding a water feature to your Edmonton lawn will elevate the serenity of your outdoor space and serve as a magnet for local wildlife.

Birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects are drawn to these water sources, bringing life and natural beauty to your garden. Whether it's a modest birdbath or an elaborate garden pond, these features can transform your lawn into a peaceful retreat.

4. Incorporate decorative borders.

The simple addition of decorative borders adds much oomph to your lawn. Frame your garden beds, pathways, or even just random sections of your lawn with borders made from stones, bricks, or creative edging materials.

These crisp lines and defined areas add a touch of elegance and help organize your outdoor area into more manageable sections. They’ll make your garden look tidy and the paths more inviting.

You can go for a rustic look with natural stones or a more refined appearance with sculpted edging.

5. Experiment with new shapes and lines.

Straight lines are classic, but why not mix things up a bit? Introduce curves and varied lines into your lawn to break the monotony and add a bit of a twist to the landscape.

Think about weaving curved pathways through your garden or designing irregularly shaped flower beds.

Curved lines soften the landscape, creating a more organic, natural feel. This approach allows you to create unique zones in your garden for different types of plants or activities, enhancing your yard's functionality and beauty.

6. Put in new lighting.

Light up your lawn with creative outdoor lighting and make your evenings all the more enjoyable. Strategically placed lights can transform your garden into a magical night-time sanctuary, perfect for relaxing after a long day or hosting evening gatherings.

Consider various lighting options, such as solar-powered garden stakes, LED up-lighting for trees, or even string lights above your patio area. Lights add much to the décor of your yard while also significantly improving safety by illuminating walkways and reducing dark spots.

With the right lighting, your lawn becomes a glowing place, warm and inviting at any hour of the day.

7. Install functional pathways.

Adding pathways to your lawn isn’t just about creating walkways; it’s about weaving functionality with aesthetic appeal. Built-in pathways help direct foot traffic efficiently, protecting your grass from wear and tear while offering a charming route through your garden.

Choose materials that complement the existing landscape design, whether that's natural flagstone for a rustic look, sleek pavers for a modern vibe, or recycled bricks for a touch of vintage charm. These paths can also act as visual guides that lead the eye to focal points in your garden, like a secluded bench or a dramatic flower bed.

8. Add a dash of seasonal colour with perennial plants.

Mix perennial and annual plants in your garden beds to inject some colour into your lawn. Perennials provide a reliable foundation, returning each year with minimal fuss. Annuals, on the other hand, splash your landscape with intense colour and variety, changing the scene from one season to the next.

Strategically plan your plantings to ensure there's always something in bloom. For instance, daffodils and tulips in spring, marigolds and petunias in summer, and chrysanthemums in the fall can create a continuous display of colour.

9. Make your yard sustainable.

Embrace eco-friendliness through better lawn care practices. Consider installing a rain barrel to capture natural rainfall. This water can be used to water your garden, reducing water usage and utility bills.

Another great practice is setting up a composting area. By composting kitchen scraps and yard waste, you create rich, nutrient-packed soil that can dramatically improve the health of your garden. Learn to recycle your grass clippings.

Green initiatives help sustain the environment and promote a healthier, more vibrant lawn. At Green Drop, we take our responsibility to the environment seriously, which is why we’ve adopted sustainable cultural practices.

10. Integrate outdoor art.

Sculptures, garden stakes, and even decorated everyday items like wood benches can transform an ordinary lawn into an extraordinary one, creating intriguing focal points and conversation starters.

Choose pieces that reflect your personal style or carry a thematic element through your garden. Whether it’s a whimsical fairy garden setup or a series of modern abstract sculptures, outdoor art can lift the aesthetic of your lawn while making it uniquely yours.

This touch of artistry not only beautifies your space but also makes it a true reflection of your individuality.

Lawn Luxury Awaits with Green Drop

While we think these are some wonderful suggestions for upgrading your lawn, the fact of the matter is that you are really only limited by your imagination. It's never been easier to improve your lawn, or your property at large, with a few small changes.

Talk to our lawn care expert today, and you might be surprised at how many design ideas we can come up with together!

Green Drop provides lawn care services across Western Canada in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Regina, Saskatoon and Winnipeg.