Not every Calgary home comes with a sprawling backyard—but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a beautiful, functional outdoor space. Whether you live in a townhouse, duplex, or simply have a compact yard, smart landscaping can turn even the smallest space into a stunning outdoor retreat. Here’s how to make the most of your yard, no matter its size.
1. Use Vertical Space
When square footage is limited, think up!
✔️ Install trellises, vertical planters, or living walls for climbing vines and flowers
✔️ Hang planters or wall-mounted herb gardens on fences or exterior walls
✔️ Use tall planters to add depth and variety without eating up ground space
2. Create Zones for Function
Designating areas for different uses can make your small yard feel larger and more purposeful.
✔️ Add a cozy seating area with a bench or bistro set
✔️ Design a mini garden bed or potted plant corner
✔️ Include a gravel or flagstone path to guide movement and define the layout
3. Keep It Simple with Low-Maintenance Plants
Choose compact, Calgary-hardy plants that don’t need a lot of space to thrive:
Boxwood shrubs
Dwarf ornamental grasses
Sedum
Hens and chicks
Creeping thyme or other low-growing ground covers
Stick to a cohesive colour palette and group similar plants for a clean, modern look.
4. Use Multi-Functional Features
✔️ A bench with built-in storage
✔️ Raised planters that double as seating
✔️ Decorative rocks or stepping stones that also act as drainage solutions
These dual-purpose features maximize utility without adding clutter.
5. Add Layers and Texture
Using a mix of materials—like wood, stone, gravel, and greenery—adds dimension to your yard.
✔️ Layer low-growing plants in front of taller ones
✔️ Mix hardscaping and softscaping to break up the space visually
✔️ Include elements like garden art, lighting, or water features to draw the eye around the yard
6. Go Container Crazy
Container gardening is perfect for small yards and Calgary’s variable weather.
✔️ Move pots to catch the sun or escape hailstorms
✔️ Use decorative planters to add pops of colour and style
✔️ Rotate seasonal flowers or herbs to keep things fresh year-round
7. Keep it Clutter-Free
In small spaces, less is more.
✔️ Stick to a few focal points
✔️ Store tools and décor in compact bins or benches
✔️ Prune regularly to keep plants looking tidy and intentional
Maximize Your Small Yard with Expert Help
At Payse Landscaping, we specialize in smart, space-saving designs for Calgary homes. Whether you have a tiny backyard, a narrow side yard, or a small patio, we can help transform your outdoor space into a functional and beautiful extension of your home.
👉 Contact us today to book a consultation and bring your small yard to life!
