Front Yard vs. Backyard: Where to Invest in Landscaping First?
When it comes to landscaping your home in Louisville, Kentucky, you might ask yourself: should I start with the front yard or the backyard? Both spaces matter, and both can make your home more fun to live in and more valuable. But if you're trying to choose where to spend your time and money first, it helps to think about your goals, your budget, and how you use your outdoor space.
In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of starting with either the front yard or the backyard. We’ll help you figure out which space is best to invest in first for your home, your family, and your lifestyle.
Why Landscaping Matters in Louisville At All
Landscaping isn’t just about looks. It helps your house stay cooler in the summer, adds value to your property, and can even lower stress. In Louisville, with its hot summers, windy winters, and strong community feel, having a great outdoor space means more time outside with family, neighbors, and friends.
Because of the local weather, it’s also important to choose plants and materials that can handle our changing seasons. Whether you’re working on the front yard or backyard, picking the right plants for the Louisville climate is key.
The Case for Starting with the Front Yard
The front yard is the first thing people see. It’s what neighbors walk past and what buyers notice if you ever sell your home. Improving your front yard boosts “curb appeal,” which means it makes your house look more inviting from the street.
Benefits of Landscaping the Front Yard First
First Impressions Matter: A neat front yard with healthy grass, clean mulch, and nice flowers can make your house look loved and well-cared-for.
Increases Home Value: Houses with pretty front yards often sell faster and for more money.
Less Work Needed: Compared to a big backyard project, a front yard makeover might need fewer materials and time.
Neighborhood Pride: In many Louisville neighborhoods like Crescent Hill, Germantown, and the Highlands, folks take pride in their front lawns and flower beds.
Another great thing about fixing up your front yard first is that it shows care and pride in your neighborhood. In Louisville, folks like to walk, bike, and talk with neighbors. A nice front yard can help you connect more with the people around you. Even a small flower bed or a cozy bench near the front porch can make your home feel warm and welcoming to everyone who passes by.
What to Do First in the Front Yard
Fix patchy grass and plant shade-loving grass for Kentucky’s climate.
Trim trees and bushes so they look tidy and healthy.
Add colorful flowers in the spring and fall to keep things lively.
Put in a new path, edging, or a small seating area near the porch.
The Case for Starting with the Backyard
The backyard is your private space. It’s where kids play, pets run around, and where you hang out with friends and family. While it might not be seen from the street, it’s the space where you make memories.
Benefits of Landscaping the Backyard First
More Personal Use: You’ll likely spend more time here than out front, especially in the warmer months.
Room for Features: You can build patios, fire pits, gardens, or even a play area.
Privacy Options: Unlike the front yard, you can add fences, trees, or screens for privacy.
Great for Events: Backyards are perfect for parties, barbecues, and family gatherings—something Louisvillians love, especially in spring and summer!
If you have kids or pets, the backyard can be a safe space for them to run, play, and explore without leaving home. In many Louisville neighborhoods, yards are big enough to build fun zones like a swing set, sandbox, or even a splash pad for summer. Starting in the backyard gives your family more reasons to spend time outdoors together, away from screens and closer to nature.
What to Do First in the Backyard
Create a patio or deck with space for sitting and eating.
Add a fire pit for cool evenings and summer s’mores.
Plant trees or shrubs along the fence for privacy and shade.
Make a play area for kids or a garden bed for growing veggies.
Things to Think About Before Deciding
1. What’s Your Budget?
If your budget is small, fixing up the front yard might be quicker and cheaper. But if you’ve saved up for a full outdoor space makeover, starting in the backyard could give you more for your money in terms of use and fun.
2. How Do You Use Your Space?
Do you sit out front and chat with neighbors? Or do you spend weekends grilling in the backyard? Think about where you and your family like to be.
3. Planning to Sell Soon?
If you’re putting your house on the market, the front yard should come first. It’s what buyers see right away. A nice lawn and clean entryway can make a big difference in how fast your home sells.
4. Want More Privacy?
If peace and quiet are your goal, your money is better spent in the backyard. You can create a space that feels like a getaway without leaving your home.
What Landscaping Pros in Louisville Recommend
Most landscaping companies in Louisville will tell you to start where it makes the most impact for your needs. At Apex Pros, we often suggest beginning with the front yard if you want better curb appeal or plan to sell. If your goal is more outdoor living space or a peaceful retreat, then the backyard is the best place to invest first.
Either way, it’s smart to work with a professional team who knows the local soil, weather, and native plants. Our team knows what grows best in Louisville and can help you create a space that looks great year-round.
Louisville Landscaping Tips for Both Yards
Whether you start in the front or the back, here are some easy ideas that work well in Louisville:
Use mulch to keep weeds down and moisture in the soil.
Choose native plants like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and Kentucky bluegrass.
Water early in the morning to avoid wasting water.
Use limestone or brick paths that match the historic feel of many Louisville neighborhoods.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question: “Should I landscape my front yard or backyard first?” It really depends on your goals. If you want to boost your home’s value or get your neighbors talking, start out front. If you want a space for fun, family, and privacy, go with the backyard.
No matter which one you pick, investing in landscaping is always a good choice. It adds beauty, value, and enjoyment to your home.
FAQ
What’s the cheapest landscaping project to start with?
Start by cleaning up—pull weeds, trim bushes, and add mulch. These small changes can make a big impact for a low cost.
Can I do both front and back yards at the same time?
Of course!, if your budget allows. You can even break each space into smaller projects and do them step by step.
How long does landscaping usually take?
Simple projects might take just a few days. Bigger ones, like patios or full yard makeovers, can take a few weeks. Weather can also cause delays.
Do I need a permit to add landscaping features in Louisville?
Most simple landscaping doesn’t need a permit. But bigger changes like decks or fences might. It’s best to check with the city or talk to a pro like us.
For a better landscaping experience—front yard, backyard, or both—visit our home page at https://apexpros.com or give us a call at 502-483-0511.
