10 Ways to Make Your Neighbours Jealous With Your Landscaping

Let's be honest – there's nothing quite like the silent nod of approval from the bloke next door when your yard is looking absolutely tops. Here's how to create the kind of outdoor space that'll have the whole street doing drive-by gawking:

1. Create a proper outdoor living room

Don't just chuck a plastic table and chairs on your patio and call it a day. Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture, add an all-weather rug, some cushions, and maybe even outdoor curtains. When your neighbors see you relaxing in your outdoor oasis with a cold one while they're perched on their wobbly camping chairs, the envy will be real.

2. Light it up

Strategic lighting transforms your garden from day to night. Solar path lights, uplighting on trees, and fairy lights strung overhead create magic after dark. Your neighbors will be wondering why their yard disappears into the darkness while yours looks like it belongs in a fancy magazine spread.

3. Add a water feature

Nothing says "my landscaping game is strong" quite like the gentle sound of running water. It doesn't have to be an enormous fountain – even a small bubbling rock feature creates instant atmosphere. Bonus: it'll drown out the sound of the neighbors arguing about whose turn it is to take the bins out.

4. Plant in layers

Amateur gardeners plant everything at the same height. Pro move? Create layers with groundcovers, mid-height plants, and taller statement pieces. This gives your garden depth and interest from every angle. Think of it as contouring for your yard – suddenly everything has definition and looks more expensive.

5. Include year-round interest

A garden that only looks good for two weeks in spring is a one-hit wonder. Plan your planting for continuous seasonal appeal with a mix of evergreens, spring bulbs, summer flowers, autumn foliage, and winter berries. Your neighbors will be scratching their heads wondering how your yard always looks mint while theirs has more mood swings than a teenager.

6. Incorporate statement pots

A few large, high-quality pots make more impact than dozens of tiny ones. Place them strategically – flanking your entrance, anchoring a corner of your patio, or as a focal point. Fill them with dramatic plants like ornamental grasses, topiary, or flowering specimens. It's the landscape equivalent of wearing designer sunglasses – instantly elevates everything.

7. Install a proper edging

Clean, crisp edges between your lawn, garden beds, and hardscaping is like good tailoring – it makes everything look more expensive. Use steel edging, stonework, or brick to create definitive lines. Your neighbor's messy, undefined garden beds will suddenly look like they just couldn't be bothered.

8. Add architectural elements

An arbor, pergola, or even a simple trellis adds height and structure to your garden. These elements draw the eye upward and create a sense of established elegance. Bonus points if you grow something climbing on it – wisteria, climbing roses, or grape vines add that "my garden has been amazing for generations" vibe.

9. Create a signature style

Don't just copy the Bunnings catalog. Decide on a coherent style – whether it's coastal, cottage, modern, or Mediterranean – and stick with it. A garden with a clear design vision stands out from the random plant collection next door. It's like having a capsule wardrobe instead of a closet full of impulse purchases.

10. Maintain it properly

Even the most spectacular landscape looks dodgy when neglected. Regular maintenance – pruning, weeding, mulching, and cleaning – keeps everything looking intentional. The real flex isn't creating a stunning garden; it's keeping it stunning with seemingly effortless upkeep. Meanwhile, your neighbors will wonder how you do it all while still having time to host those fabulous backyard parties they can hear but aren't invited to.

Remember – the goal isn't actually to make your neighbors miserable (well, maybe just a little). It's about creating an outdoor space that brings you joy every time you see it. The neighborhood envy is just a cheeky bonus!