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Tools and Equipment

17 Free Landscape Design Software To Design Your Garden

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Free landscape design software will help you design the outdoor space of your dreams. When using software to create your design, you won’t have to fabricate models of outdoor elements by hand. All the outdoor elements, like building, vegetation, people and vehicles are already at your fingertips with garden design software.

Not only will free landscape design software allow you to create your dream space, but will also allow you to create walk-throughs and flyovers that will virtually glide you and/or potential clients through your creation.

Browse through our round up of these amazing free garden design software options to see what is available and which one will be right to met your personal or business needs.

Garden and Landscape Design Software

1– Realtime Landscaping Pro

The first one in our list is a professional landscaping program by realtime-landscaping.en.softonic.com that comes to you as a free download and it offers you a good piece of backyard design software as well. Since it uses 3D design your designs will look as if they are real pictures of existing gardens. As a result, you could plan and landscape your garden in a professional manner with it.

Pros.

  • This is a powerful design software that will allow you to use a wide array of visual tools to create the perfect landscape design. Create a deck, pool area, flower garden, and much more just like the professionals do using this software.

Cons

  • The only con is that it does not provide an aerial view of your landscape design.
Realtime Landscape Design Software
Realtime Landscape Design Software, Image source: realtime-landscaping.en.softonic.com

2– SmartDraw Garden Design Software

Irrespective of whether you are a novice to garden planning or an experienced one, this landscape design software by SmartDraw allows you to create your own garden designs with elegant ease that’s I like about this software. In addition to gardens, you also could design patios and decks with it.

It is able to add barbecues and grills, foot paths, umbrellas, picnic tables, fountains and a number of other fixtures into your garden as well. Though it is not an online landscape design software, once downloaded it will allow you to do many things related to garden design.

Pros:

  • This software has built in templates, plants, and grass so you can drag and drop landscape items until you find a satisfying design for your landscape.
  • You can create a shopping list with this app once you have settled on the design.
  • It’s user friendly and lets you visualize how the finished landscape will look.

Cons:

  • The one con is that you can’t upload photos of your landscape.
SmartDraw Garden Design Software
SmartDraw Garden Design Software, Image source: smartdraw

3– Plan-a Garden

‘Plan-a-Garden’ is a beautiful free landscape design software by bhg which is also easy to use. There are buildings and shrubs as well as trees that could be dragged and dropped into the picture in order to plan your dream home garden.

It could design any small garden the same way you do a large one with it. You could make many plans and save them in order to show them to your family members. Later you could edit them in case you want to do so.

Pros:

  • Create any size garden using your home computer or laptop. Whether you want a roof top garden, a container garden for your patio, or a lavish landscape with a pool and outdoor kitchen, this software will help you design it.
  • You can use urban, suburban, or rural settings along with many different types of plants when playing around with the design.
  • This is an award winning app that is straightforward to use.

Cons:

The con is that all plants, structures, and other outdoor objects are virtual.

 

plan a garden
plan a garden, Image source: bhg

4– Garden Visualizer

This free landscape design program by marshalls will allow you to put all your garden design ideas on a beautiful 3D design and visualize it in order to help you edit it and achieve the best suited plan for your garden. Being able to add your home also within the design is a special feature you will find in this beautiful free landscape design software.

Pros:

  • Visualize your garden ideas in 3D with this software. Design a landscape that will suit the needs of your family with this easy to  use app.
  • Easy to use edit feature allows you to add, move, and remove outdoor elements until you are satisfied with your design.

Cons:

  •  You can’t upload your own photos.

Get free landscape design software at marshalls

garden visualizer free landscape design software
garden visualizer free landscape design software, Image source: marshalls

5– Garden Planner

This is an online landscape design software by smallblueprinter which could be used without downloading the software. However, if you want to save your plans it is necessary for you to download the free software. Once you download it, using it will be similar to using any other free design software used for garden design.

Pros:

  • Download the Garden Planner and have access to a multitude of ideas for your landscape design. Everything from large trees to small annual flowers are on this software so you can see how the landscape design will look when it’s first planted and what it will look like 10 years into the future.

Cons:

  • The software must be downloaded to save your plans.

Get free landscape design software at smallblueprinter

online landscape design software
online landscape design software, Image source: smallblueprinter

Pros:

  • Use photos of your actual landscape with this software. Incorporate images of plants and objects that you would like to have in your outdoor space and the software will help you determine if the object and plants would be the best fit for your climate, sun exposure, and soil.

The software is free.

Cons:

  • Not as user friendly as most landscaping software.

6– Showoff  Virtual Designer

In case you want to use a diy landscape design software like this one by saga.co.uk, Showoff Virtual Designer is the tool you must select. It allows you to upload a digital photograph of your own garden and add the necessary plants, pots, foot paths and walls onto it in order to design your dream garden out of it.

You could change your design until you find the best suited one. This free garden design software not only allows you to plan your garden but also it lets you save it and even share it with others.

Pros:

  • Use photos of your actual landscape with this software. Incorporate images of plants and objects that you would like to have in your outdoor space and the software will help you determine if the object and plants would be the best fit for your climate, sun exposure, and soil.
  • The software is free.

Con:

  • Not as user friendly as most landscaping software.
DIY landscape design software
DIY landscape design software, Image source: saga

7– My Gardena Landscape Design App

‘My gardena’ is a professional free landscape design software by gardena that allows you add your deck, patio, fence water and so many features. You could design your garden easily with this 3d tool. At the same time you have the option to see example gardens using real time walk though in 3d technology. Once you do the planning the shopping list of yours also could be printed using the same software.

Pros:

  • Ideal design software to use when planning a landscape with a built in irrigation system.
  • A garden will need water to grow and if you don’t want the chore of watering plants regularly, then this software is a must.  Use it to design the perfect outdoor space that will be easy to maintain with an automatic irrigation system.
  • Free software helps you be creative so you can plan a beautiful garden.

Cons:

  • Only good if you’re planning to install irrigation.
professional free landscape design software
professional free landscape design software, Image source: gardena

8– Realtime Landscaping Architect

Though it is necessary to purchase this landscape design software by ideaspectrum that enables you to design your landscape unlike the software we discussed before, but you also will be able to use their trial version free. It is a good piece of software that could be used to design your garden. There is no need to have any previous knowledge on CAD either to use it.

Pros:

  • This landscape design is not free but will provide you with a free trial before you buy it.
  • You can test it out before you buy it.
  • The price includes support, tutorials, and more.

Cons:

  • The con is that you have to pay for this software.

You may also like to check out square foot garden plans.

Free landscape design software
Free landscape design software, Image source: ideaspectrum

9– Building Up

Here we have a free SketchUp software to design and build upwards. Not all gardens are built on a flat surface and this software will enable you to build up, down and over any type of terrain within your landscape.

Create small backyard gardens, terrace gardens or design a large outdoor park with this free landscape design software. Just a click of a button will allow you to bring in the exact image of the terrain you will be working with so you can adjust the garden design to specifics variations within the outdoor space.

Pros:

  • Here is powerful software that can bring your garden plans to life. From the smallest container garden to the largest park on uneven terrain, this software can help you design the landscape of your dreams.
  • The con is the software is not free. Prices vary according to the plans you purchase.

Cons:

  • Not good for use with a level landscape.
Free landscape design software
Free landscape design software, Image source: sketchup

10– Software For Landscape Design and Urban Planning

This landscaping software free designs by lands-design will enable you to design water features along with land and garden designs. Create stunning renders in vivid colors that will show you exactly how an outdoor space will look before the first shovel full of dirt gets moved.

Use Lands free landscape design software to create large outdoor spaces that contain stairs, fences, walls, water features and other design elements. Add a variety of vegetation from over 1,500 virtual plants to choose from. Design and re-design until you get the space just right for yourself or a client.

The best landscape design software allows you to create it your way, with all the elements you want within the outdoor space that you have. Lands software can handle everything from terrain modeling, to urban planning, to a backyard garden. Above ground water features and below ground irrigation system planning are also easy with this free software that is quick to download.

Pros:

  • Full color and the ability to add water features to your landscape design are the biggest pros of this software.
  • Over 1,500 plants are also included so you can play around with the design and see how the landscape will look in all four seasons.

Cons:

  • Designed for use in large landscapes, not good for a small backyard.
landscaping software free designs
Landscaping software free designs, Image source: landsdesign

11– Visualize Your Garden

This free garden design app by iscapeit lets you visualize what your yard can look like before you spend any money. Use the free app from iScape to envision and plan what you want to do in your yard. Add all the elements you would like to the space using the app, then collaborate with landscape designers and industry partners to see if your design is the best it can be for the space.

Free advice and knowledge from landscape professionals are included with this free garden design app. At any stage of the design process you will be able to share it with a spouse, friends or landscape professional of your choice to get their valued input on the outdoor garden space you’re creating.

You can streamline your garden project by purchasing products directly through the iScapes app.

Pros:

  • See what your landscape will look like before you do any work or spend any money.
  • Get free advice from landscape professionals with this software. If your design is not the best for your climate, the professionals will help you make better plant choices.
  • The app can be downloaded for free.

Cons:

  • You will only have limited access with the free feature.
free garden design app
Free garden design app, Image source:iscapeit

12– Inside and Outside Dream Garden Planner

Use this free landscape design software by dreamplan-home-design-software to design your home inside and outside. DreamPlan Home Design Software allows users to create detailed architectural and garden plans in 3D so everything can be visualized before money is spent.

Design an indoor living space that flows seamlessly with a customized outdoor living space with this free downloadable software. The built-in wizards enable a novice designer to create a spectacular design that will work with your exact terrain and budget.

Design an outdoor kitchen, firepit, seating and eating areas. A fragrant flower garden and productive vegetable garden may also be a part of your plans.

Create and view your design in 3D in only minutes with this easy to use free downloadable software. Create a unique floor plan or select from existing ones, and select from the many varieties of trees and shrubs offered so you can put together a space designed to meet your personal needs.

Pros:

  • Design the inside and outside of your home with this free software.
  • Visualize your dream home in 3D.
  • Design your home and your landscape with one easy to use software download.

Cons:

  • Only a limited number of objects are available.

You may also like to check out vegetable garden planner software.

free landscape design software
Free landscape design software, Image source: dreamplan-home-design-software.en.softonic.com

13– Live Outside

This backyard design software by homeoutside is for people who like to live outside. Download this free software from HomeOutside and start planning your ideal outdoor living space in minutes.

You can start with their partial outdoor designs and create a customized space from there, or use their full property designs for your space. Ask an expert for help at any stage of the design process so you can get the most from your outdoor space.

You can get an online workbook that will allow you to submit property information, goals, ideas and preferences for your outdoor living space. Based on the provided information, you will receive a unique design that has been customized to meet your needs. You can accept it, tweak it or start all over again, the ultimate garden design will be your creation.

Pros:

  • Perfect for people who want to create an outdoor living space.  This software will help you create a space you will spend a lot of time in.
  • You can ask an expert for advice at any stage of the design process.

Cons:

  • You will need beta access to use this software.

You may also like to check out diy retaining walls for landscape.

yard design software
yard design software , Image source: homeoutside

14– Easy Peasy Landscape Design App

Landscape design is made easy with the free landscape design software by edrawsoft. Take all the guess work out of the design and incorporate all the elements you want with the easy to use home plans.

EDraw provides a bright, user friendly interface that is easy to understand and operate. Simply drag and drop into place the landscape elements you want in your garden space. Choose from ponds, buildings, walkways, tree and flowers. You can also see what your landscape will look like in different seasons.

Use this free landscape design software to design a small garden, large garden, rooftop garden or entire landscape with pond, fences, trees and vegetable garden. No limits on the outdoor space you can customize with this easy to use, free loadable software.

Available versions for Windows, Mac and Linux, the vast array of templates and examples makes garden design on your home computer a snap.

Pros:

  • User friendly landscape design software that is free.
  • Design water features, walkways, and a she-shed or other outbuildings.
  • Add flowers, trees, and shrubs then see how they will look in all four seasons with this software.

Cons:

  • Reviews of the software are edited and not published in real time so it’s difficult to get an honest consumer review.
free landscape design software
free landscape design software, Image source: edrawsoft

15– Fingertip Landscape Design App

Everything needed to design your own unique garden is at your fingertips with this free landscape design software. Home Design 3D not only allows you to create a new space, but re-model the space you currently have too. You can have professional results with your design project by using this free software with 3D planning.

Arrange and re-arrange each element until it suites you and the space. Adjust heights, thickness, design and decorate all indoor and outdoor spaces. Select from 100‘s of textures and over 1,500 pieces of furniture. See what your space will look like in daytime or nighttime with the visualization and visit featured provided by this free software.

Ideal for use on a Smartphone, Tablet or PC or Mac. There’s no limit on what you can create right from your SmartPhone using this free downloadable app.

Pros:

  • Perfect software for remodeling the spaces you already have. This software will enable you to remodel the inside and outside of your home. Rearrange and re-design all of your living spaces with this one software download.
  • It’s 3D and can be used on a smartphone or home computer.

Cons:

  • The software is primarily used for home remodeling, not landscape designing.
free landscape design software
free landscape design software, Image source: homedesign3d

16– Dream Home

The American Dream Home used to be a front yard with a white picket fence….now it’s so much more than that. Curb appeal, water features, shrubs, flowers and outdoor kitchens are all factored into most people’s dream home nowadays, and this free landscape design software on download.cnet by NCH Software can help you design your idea of a dream home.

In minutes you can design the interior and exterior of your home to meet your exact specifications. See what your uneven landscape would like if it as raised or lowered, or with that patio you’ve always wanted or maybe even a pool with outdoor kitchen.

Download the free software and start dreaming today. You can also include the white picket fence in your design is that’s a desired element.

Pros:

  • Design the interior and exterior of your dream home with this free software.
  • See what your home and yard will look like from the curb and overhead.
  • See what your home will look like after a remodel and how your landscape will look with a pool or outdoor kitchen.

Cons:

  • Can’t scale, erase, or edit.

You may also like to check out garden mulches for landscape.

free landscape design software
free landscape design software, Image source: download.cnet.com

17– Landscape For Everyone

Easy to use software puts the power of landscape design into everyone’s hand. You don’t have to hire a professional landscaper to design your garden, nor do you have to be a professional landscaper in order to use this software.

It’s so easy to use, even a novice computer user will be able to navigate the page and design a professional looking garden. Landscapes should not be expensive and only attainable to the wealthy, an outdoor space should be comfortable, enjoyable and increase property value. You can do all of this and more with this free landscape design software by 3D Landscape For Everyone.

See your ideas come to life in 3D. Add elements and re-arrange them until the outdoor space suits you exact specifications. The download is free and will only takes a few minutes to ready for use. Nothing to sign up for and nothing to purchase. Get started designing an award winning outdoor space with this free garden design software today.

Pros:

Ideal software for the first time home owner and novice gardener. This software is user friendly and will take you through each phase of design step by step.

Plan the simplest or most elaborate landscape using this one free software product.

Cons:

  • Downloading and installation is very slow.
free landscape design software
free landscape design software, Image source: 3d-landscape-for-everyone.en.softonic.com

Conclusion

Since there are seventeen different free landscaping design software in our list, you have ample opportunity to choose the one you prefer and design your garden to add a better environment to your home.

Based upon some frequently asked questions we’ve prepared a questionnaire.

FAQs

What is 3D Landscape Design Software?

3D will allow you to see how plants stack, layer, bloom, and their mature height. Multiple angles of the 3D design will show an aerial view, side views, and front views so you can see how the home and landscape will look from all angles.

What’s The Difference Between 2D and 3D Landscape Design Software?

A 2D design gives you a direct view of the landscape design, usually in full color, so you have a better visual experience of what your finished home and landscape will look like.

A 3D design does the same thing however, it is much more detailed and allows you to see all angles of the landscape from the front, sides, and top.

How Can I Improve My Landscape Design?

By downloading one of these 17 software products and create a landscape that works for you. Many will provide free advice from a design expert so you will be able to choose the right plants and plant them in the right places in your landscape.

Experts will also be available to offer advice for other hardscape features in your landscape.

How Can Landscape Design Software Help You?

Landscape design software can help take your dream home and make it a reality. When you know what you want your landscape to look like but don’t know where to start, using software for the design will be the needed first step to get you started.

How To Pick The Right Landscape Design Software For You

First decide some of the things that you might want in your landscape, like a pond, seating area, or outdoor kitchen. Next, search for a software product that offers designs for the things you want most in your landscape and check them out.

How Much Does Landscape Design Software Cost?

Many of these 17 landscape design software products are free to download. Some will you have to pay for and the cost will vary.

Check out the free design software first and if you don’t like what they have to offer start looking into the ones that will cost the lowest and work your way up in price.

Garden Projects Plans, Tools and Equipment

23 DIY Sprinkler Systems-Water Your Lawn With Ease

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Installing a DIY sprinkler system will enable you to water your lawn with ease and have a beautiful green lawn. Having lush green grass is not the only benefit of automatic sprinkler system, there are many ways watering system will help your property.

The first thing a DIY sprinkler system will do is save you money. It will save you money up-front in the installation cost, plus it will save you money over the years as you water the lawn and landscape plants.

A lawn sprinkler system can be connected to a companion water meter and you will not be charged with the water usage. The green grass and thriving landscape will increase the curb appeal and value of your home. A green lawn and shrubs will also help to reduce the air temperature around your home in the summer and thereby reducing the air conditioning usage and lowering your utility bill.

A garden watering system will also put the water right where it’s needed most so there will be less evaporation and less waste of this precious natural resource.

Thirdly the sprinkler system will save your time by watering the lawn automatically without the use of hand watering.

Check out our round up of these 23 DIY sprinkler systems and find one that’s right for your landscape.

You may also like to see my other articles: diy drip irrigation system to save water and time.

1- DIY Pop-Up Sprinklers

Learn how to install pop-up sprinkler system like this one by This Old House with these easy-to-follow instructions. Pop-ups are invisible when not in use and won’t hinder mowing and other landscaping chores. This traditional watering system is easier to install than you may think.

Here are step by step instructions to make this diy pop-up sprinklers system.

  • Locate the water pipe buried under the ground, mark it and dig trenches with gas-powered trenching machine.
  • Turn off the water, cut the water pipe and attach pvc tee and elbow.
  • Dig a hole about 18 inches deep and 2 to 3 feet long to connect the main line to valve box.
  • Glue together the manifold and attach the zone valves.
  • Place underground wire and connect it with valve wires.
  • Lay the pvc pipe in the trench coming from valve box.
  • Connect each pipe coming from valve to trenches pipes.
  • Attach sprinkler to the end of each flexible pipe.
  • Lay out the drip irrigation tubing and secure it with plastic ground stakes.
  • Fix the timer on the wall and connect wires coming from valves.
Pop-Up Sprinklers
Image via: This Old House

2- Simple DIY Sprinkler System

If following pictures is a better way for you to be guided through a project, then these instructions are for you. Both words and corresponding pictures will guide you through an underground sprinkler system installation by  prettyhandygirl.

underground sprinkler system installation
Image via: prettyhandygirl

3- Large Landscape System

We recommend this sprinkle system to those who have a large landscape that includes grass, flowers and shrubs, then this is a good DIY sprinkler system by younghouselove good to consider.

It’s possible to have a large, thriving landscape without spending hours tending to it each week if you automate some of the maintenance needs, like watering the lawn. Keep the lawn well hydrating and the envy of your neighborhood with this easy to install irrigation system.

DIY sprinkler system
Image via: younghouselove

4- DIY Lawn Sprinkler System

This website will show you how to make a plan for a lawn sprinkler system by hgtv that is right for your landscape. The right placement of the lines and sprinkler heads are essential for your system to work at its optimum level.

lawn sprinkler system
Image via: hgtv

5- Right Flow Rate

A wealth of advice can be garnered from this valuable website. A DIY water sprinkler system by lowes is only as good as the flow rate of the water, and this website will show you how to check that vital statistic plus many others.

DIY water sprinkler system
Image via: lowes

6- Automated Sprinkler System

Create a series of garden irrigation and lawn irrigation systems like this one by instructables that can grow with your gardening endeavors with the instructions found on this website. By creating an automated DIY sprinkler system with garden hose connection, the water goes where you want it go, when you want it to go and the system is easy to remove and take with you should you sell your home.

Automated Sprinkler System
Image via: instructables

7- DIY Underground Irrigation System

The DIY installation process of an underground sprinkler system by popularmechanics is a big job, but it has a big payoff. No more wasted water or no more moving the sprinkler around. Just turn it on and forget it and watch your lawn become greener by the day. Renting a Ditch Witch will make the digging go easier and quicker.

Below are simple steps to make this underground sprinkler system.

  • Measure water pressure at an outdoor faucet with a simple pressure gauge.
  • Dig holes with machine and lay out main pvc pipe line and cable.
  • Assemble the zone valves and buried it under the ground.
  • Connect the cable wire and main line with downstream side of each valve.
  • Slide a crimp ring onto each pipe and insert the barb fitting.
  • Connect the sprinkler heads to the pipe.
  • Connect the ell to the sprinkler head with 3/8-in. swing pipe.
  • Back fill the hole 4 in and amp the soil with a rubber mallet.
  • Install a full-flow ball valve and reduced-pressure back flow preventer right after the ball valve.
  • Mount the timer and connect wires with it.
underground sprinkler system
Image via: popularmechanics

8- Garden Irrigation System

Keep your vegetable garden thriving and producing an abundance of vegetables with this easy-to-install system by bunnings.

Garden Irrigation System
Image via: bunnings

9- DIY Automated Sprinklers

In order to have a lush, green lawn, you have to water early in the morning and get the water go soak down deeply into the soil where the grass roots are located. This DIY lawn sprinkler system by lifehacker will do that for you on an automated timing system, so you’ll never forget to turn the sprinklers on, or off, again.

DIY Automated Sprinklers
Image via: lifehacker

10- Step by Step DIY Sprinkler Installation

Detailed, step by step instructions by sprinklerwarehouse will guide you through the DIY installation process so you can have a thriving lawn, vibrant flowers and producing vegetable garden even in the middle of a drought.

DIY installation process
Image via: sprinklerwarehouse

11- PVC Sprinkler System

Use these easy instructions to create a diy sprinkler system by thecraftyblogstalker from inexpensive PVC pipe. Perfect for use as lawn or garden sprinklers to keep your vegetation growing.

PVC Sprinkler System
Image via: thecraftyblogstalker

12- DIY Rain Bird Installation

Professional grade and designed for the homeowners to install themself, this website will walk you through the entire Rain Bird By rainbird installation process so you’ll never have to manually water your lawn or garden again.

DIY Rain Bird Installation
Image via: rainbird

 

13- Garden Irrigation System

More people have turned towards growing fresh food in a home garden so they can control what goes into their food and lower their grocery bill. However, if vegetable plants die due to lack of water, it can be a costly.

Keep your vegetable plants thriving with this easy to build garden irrigation system by budget101 that is created with PVC pipe. It’s inexpensive to build and will last for years.

Garden Irrigation System
Image via: budget101

14- Sprinkler For Odd Shaped Lawns

As we all know that not all lawns are square or oblong, many are odd shaped. Curves, angles, outside structure, etc., all help define the shape of the lawn and the actual area that needs to be watered.

If you have a lawn that has an odd shape, use these free plans to create a custom DIY lawn sprinkler like this one by instructables that will keep all those odd angles well hydrated.

Sprinkler For Odd Shaped Lawns
Image via: instructables

15- Greenhouse Sprinkler System

These free plans will provide you with step by step instructions on how to install a sprinkler system like this one by By  mikesbackyardnursery in a greenhouse. This system will also work for lawns and gardens.

Greenhouses make ideal growing environments for plants, but the plants still need regular watering. Make it easy on yourself and keep plants hydrated with this ingenious watering system.

Greenhouse Sprinkler System
Image via: mikesbackyardnursery

16- Simple Sprinkler System

This simple design is inexpensive to build and easy to install. This DIY sprinkler system by cnet will keep your lawn well watered automatically so you won’t have to spend hours each week hand-watering your landscape.

Re-claim your summer weekends from lawn duty and spend more time relaxing by installing this simple system that will keep the lawn, flowers and shrubs well hydrated. Your home’s curb appearance will increase while your stress level will decrease.

DIY sprinkler system
Image via: cnet

17- Kid Mister

This idea provides cooling fun for the kids and water the lawn at the same time. Many outdoor kid friendly venues have these kid misters to keep kids entertained and cooled (adults like them too!) while waiting in line.

These kids misters are so popular away from home, why not build one for use at home? These free and easy sprinkler plans by livedan330 will walk you through the easy and inexpensive building process. A kid mister will hydrate your lawn every time your kid presses the button to get misted.

The urinal flusher used as the water turn on will only allow the mister to run for a specified amount of time, so no worry about excess water usage with this design.

DIY Kid Mister Sprinkler System
Image via: livedan330

18- PVC Garden Sprinkler

Here is a great idea for keeping your backyard vegetable garden well watered and growing strong  all summer. The sprinklers can be made as tall or as short as needed for the type of vegetable plants that will be watered by them.

The simple design is effective and will minimize water loss by directing the water right where it is needed. Inexpensive PVC, a sprinkler head and water hose is most of the items you will need to construct this DIY sprinkler system by instructables. If you have used PVC pipes from another project, this is would a good way to recycle those pipes. This system will reduce your labor and your water bill, while helping your garden produce a bountiful harvest.

PVC Garden Sprinkler
Image via: instructables

19- Timer System

This is a massive system that is fully automated. Keep a large front, back and side yards well watered all summer long with this DIY sprinkler system by diylawnexpert.

No digging is required, all the components of this lawn sprinkler system will be on top of the ground. Even though the system is above ground, it is easy to move out of the way when it’s time to mow the lawn.

The timer system allows you to set it for the desired amount of run time and to turn itself on at the desired time of day or night. Setting the timer to turn the sprinkler system in the early morning hours before daylight will allow the lawn and plants to absorb more water and prevent evaporation. The same is true for running the system at night when then the outside air has cooled down.

DIY sprinkler system
Image via: diylawnexpert

20- Battery Power

Here are another set of plans for a timed DIY irrigation system by instructables, and this one gets it’s power from a battery instead of your home’s electricity.

Recycle an old computer battery to help create a timer for the watering system so the lawns, plants, and/or garden will receive water at the best times of day, even if you’re not at home to turn the system on.

DIY irrigation system
Image via: instructables

21- Water Sprinkler

We recommend this to you if you have a small yards or gardens, these instructions will show you how to create a small, portable water sprinkler that will deliver water right where it is needed. An aluminum tube, PVC pipe and a couple clamps is all you will need to fabricate this DIY water sprinkler by instructables.

These free plans have detailed pictures to go along with the written instructions so you can follow each step at your own pace.

DIY water sprinkler
Image via: instructables

22- Pop Up Sprinkler

Most homeowners love the pop up style of water sprinklers like this one by instructables, they are out of sight, out of the way and very easy to use. But we all know they are also very expensive. This idea will show you how to take some of the components of a pop up sprinkler system and create your own low cost pop up sprinkler system.

PVC pipe will be used as it is a durable, water proof material that can stand up to the outdoor elements for several years. Pop up spray heads in the size and amount you need for your landscape, along with a few other low cost components are the other elements of the DIY sprinkler system.

This design can be scaled to be as large or as small as you need, and can be created in a weekend.

Pop Up Sprinkler
Image via: instructables

23- Greener, Healthier Lawn

You are just six steps away from having a greener and healthier lawn like this one by lawnbeltusa and this website will guide you through those six short steps. Measure, test, draw, select, install and watch it grow

Summary

By building a DIY sprinkler system you can save on your utility bills, the right amount of water the landscape needs and save your time by automating the system. So these are some DIY sprinkler systems we have shared with you. You can select any of these DIY sprinkler systems you like the most.

Garden Projects Plans, Tools and Equipment

12 DIY Drip Irrigation To Water Your Plants Frugally

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A DIY drip irrigation system will save your time and money, plus it will enable you to have healthier garden plants. An automatic watering system will put the water right where it’s needed at the time when plants can uptake the moisture most efficiently.

Garden watering systems will work in both raised bed plots and traditional in-ground plots, plus they will even keep the growing plants well-hydrated when you’re gone for the day or weekend.

Look through our round up of these 12 DIY drip irrigation systems and discover how to install a drip irrigation system in your home garden.

  1. Raised Bed DIY Drip Irrigation

First we are going to discuss a diy drip irrigation system that has a step-by-step pictorial instruction that will guide you through installing self-watering system by prettyprudent in a raised bed garden. The hardware is already pre-assembled and the system can be added on to as desired. It doesn’t get much easier than this. You may also like to see diy self watering planters.

Automatic Watering System
Image via: prettyprudent

  1. Automatic Watering System

We recommend this diy watering system to busy gardener who may be prone to under-watering or over-watering. This DIY drip irrigation by makezine system is automated and takes all the guess work out ‘how how much water the garden needs’.

Raised Bed Drip Irrigation
Image via: makezine

  1. Above Ground DIY Drip Irrigation

This is a great DIY above ground watering system by hgtv to install in an established flower garden. No digging or underground installation involved unlike we discussed the systems earlier and your plants will thank you for it.

Here are brief steps to install this diy drip irrigation.

  • Install sprinkler system and place above ground tubing that is running along the flower beds and new trees.
  • Cut sections of 1/4″ tubing at a length which is easily reachable inside the perimeter of the plants.
  • Attach Tubing to a Connector and Emitter.
  • Make hole into the main tubing and insert the connector end of the spaghetti tubing into the main pipe.
  • Snake spaghetti tube under the plant and then snake the tube down and and cover it with mulch.
Above Ground Drip Irrigation
Image via: hgtv

  1. Container Garden System

Vegetables, fruits and flowers grown in containers dry out quicker than those grown in-ground. To free up your time and keep container plants well hydrated, install this homemade drip irrigation system by getbusygardening and keep your garden pots filled moisture and happy plants.

These are brief steps to install a diy drip irrigation system for potted plants.

  • Firstly attach the connector to hose or spigot and then irrigation backflow preventer to the faucet spigot.
  • Attach the pressure regulator and faucet hose fitting.
  • Insert the one end of poly tubing to open end of faucet fitting.
  • Mark the line on poly tubing where you want your drip line tubing and pots should be.
  • Cut and cap the tube at its very end.
  • Determine the length of each drip line.
  • Make hole at the point where you will put connector and micro tubing.
  • Insert connector in the main pipe first and then drip tubing into the connector.
  • Fix the micro heads to the other end of micro tubing.
homemade drip irrigation system
Image via: getbusygardening

  1. Timed DIY Drip Irrigation System

Here is a system that allows you to have a life away from home and grow fresh vegetables. Once this DIY plant watering system by blogs is installed, you can set the timer and leave home for a few days without worry. Your plants will stay well hydrated in your absence. You may also like to see diy water fountain.

Timed Drip Irrigation System
Image via: blogs

  1. Overhead Sprinkler System

This DIY system comes from Home Depot and the instructions make installation fast and easy. Give your garden plants a drink from over head with this sprinkler system by homedepot. You may also like to see diy sprinkler system.

Overhead Sprinkler System
Image via: homedepot

  1. Mirco DIY Irrigation System

This plant watering system on youtube keeps hanging baskets looking fresh and vigorously growing all summer. Also use this micro irrigation system for container gardens.

  1. Bottle DIY Drip Irrigation

Simple to install, inexpensive and a great way to recycle plastic bottles. Just punch a few holes in the bottom half of a large plastic bottle like this one by providentliving, bury the bottom half of the bottom between plants in the garden, then fill with water.

Bottle Drip Irrigation
Image via: providentliving

  1. DIY Drip Irrigation For Under $10

Cheap, easy to fabricate and perfect for gardeners who like to grow vegetables in containers and want to save time and money. See the complete guide and video tutorial at Eat Drink Better.

  1. PVC DIY Irrigation System

A great little system that saves time and water in the garden. PVC pipe is easy to work with and will last for years, and this diy irrigation system on youtube uses water efficiently so less water will be needed. You may also like to see homemade water filter.

  1. DIY Bucket System

Unique and efficient way to keep plants hydrated. A bucket of water, gravity and a couple of other inexpensive components is all you need to create the self watering system like this one on youtube.

  1. Base Watering

This DIY drip irrigation system by thisoldhouse will deliver water right to the base of plants so less water is lost through evaporation. Keeping the plant leaves dry will also help prevent a host of diseases so plants will stay healthy and well hydrated. You may also like to see diy water pump.

DIY irrigation system
Image via: thisoldhouse
Tools and Equipment, vegetable garden

7 Free Vegetable Garden Planner Software For Better Gardening

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If you would like to grow your own fresh vegetables, but don’t know where to start, these 7 vegetable garden planner software sites from our round up will help you from plowing to harvesting. The free garden planning advice given for home vegetable gardens on these software sites is invaluable to both novice and seasoned gardener alike.

1-Smart Gardener Vegetable Planner Sotware

The first one in our list is Smart Gardener that helps you plan a vegetable garden layout and select the right plants for your layout, growing zones and household size. This vegetable garden planner software will also help you keep track of work that needs to be done in your garden by creating a customized ‘To-Do’ list for you.

The free garden planning software also keeps garden journal for you so you’ll have past gardening information at your fingertips for future reference. You can enter photos and notes into the garden journal, but all pertinent information will be journaled for you, a big plus for busy home gardeners!

vegetable garden planner software
vegetable garden planner software, Image source: Smart Gardener

2- Free Kitchen Vegetable Garden Planner

Kitchen Garden Planner by Gardeners will help you virtually build raised bed gardens so you can create a vegetable garden design that will produce an abundant crop in minimal space.

Use this vegetable garden planner to create your own garden design or choose a pre-planned design. Expert advice and several gardening resources, including pest and disease control advice, are also available through this software that I like about this software.

Free Kitchen Vegetable Garden Planner
Free Kitchen Vegetable Garden Planner, Image source: Gardeners

3-Vegetable Gardening Online

Vegetable garden planner by vegetable planner.vegetable-gardening-online.com provides a grid for planning a vegetable garden online that is customized for your household’s needs and growing zones. Plant your garden online before ever breaking ground so you can tinker with plants and planting and design your own garden plans with a click of a mouse. This is one of our most favorite vegetable garden planning software.

This vegetable garden planner software will also provides zone chart, worksheets, planting guide and more. A garden gift shop is also available so you can purchase needed and wanted items for yourself or a gardening friend. You may also like check out landscape design software.

vegetable garden planner
Vegetable garden planner, Image source: vegetableplanner.vegetable-gardening-online.com

4-Interactive Vegetable Garden Planner

GrowVeg.com provides an inactive garden that allows you to plant and replant until you get your vegetable garden plans just right. The interactive vegetable garden planner on this software site has vegetable garden designs that range from raised beds, in-ground rows and square footage garden plots.

You choose the design then choose from 130 different vegetable and herb plants to set out in your online interactive garden, then in the soil of your home vegetable garden.

interactive vegetable garden planner
Interactive vegetable garden planner, Image source: GrowVeg.com

5– Vegetable Garden Planner

Here we have The Old Farmer’s Almanac vegetable Garden Planner Software that has been helping people with everything from starting a vegetable garden to preserving their vegetable harvest for years. The Old Farmer’s Almanac in paper back version was often referred to as the ‘gardener’s bible’  and nothing was plowed, planted, harvested or preserved unless the almanac was first consulted.

Now the updated online software allows the modern day gardener to have a wealth of digital information at their fingertips so they can grow vegetables in a home garden just as tasty as grandpa did. The garden planner software will also send you email reminders of garden tasks which need to be done.

almanac garden planner
Almanac garden planner, Image source: gardenplanner.almanac

6-Online Garden Planning Tool

Plangarden.com is a vegetable garden planner software that allows you to layout, plan and manage your home vegetable garden online. This software site allows you to quickly plan how you want your garden to grow and offers expert advice to frequently asked questions. Learn when to start seeds indoors, how far apart to space the plants when setting them out in your home vegetable garden and when to harvest.

Discover innovative gardening ideas that just might be the answer to your challenging landscape or growing zone issues. Plangarden.com also offers a forum where you can interact with other gardeners to chat and get or give advice. You may also like check out fast growing vegetables.

online garden planning tool
Online garden planning tool, Image source: Plangarden.com

7-Vegetable Garden Planner

Vegetable Garden Planner provides users with an easy to use garden bed layout tool that allows you to place and re-place each plant until you get your garden arranged just the way you want. Planning a vegetable garden is hard work, but this free garden planner software helps make the job easier by allowing you to know right where every plant will thrive and produce its best before it’s set in the soil.

This garden planner software also allows you to upload photos of your growing vegetables, keep a garden journal, make and update a to-do list and record your planting and harvesting times for future reference. You may also like check out vegetables that grow well in pots.

vegetable garden planner
Vegetable garden planner, We love this vegetable design software as it offers personalized features to let you know how your real garden will look.  Vegetable Garden Planner

Conclusion!

Now you have vast options to consider planning your vegetable garden. You can choose any of the above free vegetables garden planner software we have shared with you for planning your own garden that best suits your requirements. Hope you like our article! We will be excited to see you once you have done your work!

Gardening, Tools and Equipment

10 Crucial Gardening Tools You Must Have For Your Garden Maintenance

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Using the right tools is the most important aspect of good gardening. Unless you use the correct tool no job in the garden could be completed the way you want. Therefore, it is important to identify the various garden tools you are expected to use in order to maintain a beautiful garden.

      1-Garden hose with a watering wand

Watering plants could not be done without a good garden hose. It is a good idea to have a watering wand also attached to it in order to control your water supply. Buying one that comes with a coil is a better option as it will automatically turn the garden hose into a coil once a job is completed. Wand will save you from having to walk up to the spigot every time you need to shut off the water and to open the same.

Garden hose with a watering wand

      2-Saws For Cutting

If yours is a small garden, buying a saw with a curved blade is going to be sufficient and it could be bought in the garden equipment store. When you want to prune bigger branches of trees your saw will come in handy. In case you have a large garden you might need to buy an extra one as well. This could be a folding saw because it becomes compact when folded.

Garden tools Saws

      3-Scissors for Pruning 

A pair of scissors is a must have item in your gardening tools list. When you want to open packs of soil and when you want to harvest vegetables it will be the best tool to use. There will be the odd occasion when you need to snip a string as well. Buying one with strong blades and plastic handles is the best way to go.Scissors for plants

      4-Pruning shears

There is no way that you could use your scissors in place of pruning shears. They are tough and with one you could prune hard branches with just one snap. It is one of the essential garden hand tools you must have in your collection of tools. When you choose one it is a must to look at the blades to make sure that they are sharp.

Pruning shears for cutting
Image credit

      5-Rakes For Gardening

You may need more than one of these essential tools to be used in the garden. One of them could be used to collect leaves and mulch. There are also rakes designed to reach small corners and spaces under bushes. A hard rake will be useful to remove roots that are hard to remove. Rakes are tools used for making gardens look tidy and nice.

rakes for gardening

      6-Garden hoe

This is a versatile tool that could be used for removing roots left under the top soil. Also, it comes in handy when you want to do edging. Though there are different types of hoes just buying one is sufficient to maintain a small garden. Buying a loop hoe is the best option as it is more useful than others. It is a good gardening tool that will come in handy when you want to maintain your garden properly.

Garden tool hoe

      7-Shovels

There are different types of shovels and each of them is designed to do a different job. Therefore, having a few of them is going to be useful. They could be used for digging holes and removing soil. There are many other tasks for which they could be used. Due to the many tasks for which it is being used a shovel becomes one of the best gardening tools.

Shovels for gardening

      8-String trimmer

String trimmer is one of the garden power tools you need to have. It is able to complete the job where your lawn mower cannot reach. It could do trimming, edging and also it is able to cut tall grass. When you buy a gas powered one you could avoid the trouble of having to deal with wires.

String trimmer for gardening

      9-Edger

When you have a lawn it is a must to have clean edges. This moon shaped tool is one of the important but often overlooked lawn tools. It is used for giving finishing touches to flower beds and the edges of your lawn. Though you could also buy a power edger this hand tool could do the job for a small garden.

lawn Edger for gardening

      10-Wheelbarrow

When you want to transfer soil from one place to another in your garden wheelbarrow comes in handy. When you have one of them even carrying one of those heavy bags of soil is not going to be a tough job. Since there are many models to choose from you could pick up the one that you prefer.

Wheelbarrow for gardening

These are just 10 of the most useful gardening tools you need to have in your possession. They could be purchased in any store that sells gardening supplies. They will not cost a lot either.