Hot Tub Landscaping on a Budget

The initial cost of a hot tub unit and its installation make up a large part of the investment required to enjoy a hot tub. But if you really want to make the most of your new piece of paradise, you’re also going to want to blend it into your property with some careful landscaping.

Fortunately, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways you can turn your new hot tub into your personal oasis.

Buying Plants on a Budget

Various organizations promote the use of native plants in your hot tub landscaping, as they can provide balance to the local ecosystem and lower the risk of invasive species taking over. Incorporating these plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees into your property’s landscaping can also cost you a lot less than what you’ll find at big box stores.

Finding Tools on a Budget

If you don’t have the equipment needed to create a beautifully manicured hot tub area, the good news is that there are ways to get your hands on what you need without having to make a purchase.

The Library of Things

The Library of Things is a government program that enlists the help of public libraries to bring resources to those who need them. You can borrow hundreds of items, such as tools, gardening equipment, appliances, musical instruments, electronics, and hobby supplies, for free from libraries affiliated with the Library of Things program. 

You just need to be a cardholder of the library to take advantage of this option. There is no centralized database for this program, so you will need to check with your local libraries.

Rent Tools

Odds are there’s a local hardware store or a similar business in your area that rents out equipment for a fraction of the price of purchasing it. Unless you’re planning on using the tools frequently, this can be a much better option for your hot tub landscaping.

Finding Affordable Materials

Getting your hands on the necessary materials can be costly on multiple fronts, but it doesn’t have to be if you know where to look.

Fertilizer on a Budget

You can get fertilizer entirely for free if you create your own compost using things like banana peels, fish/seafood waste, rice or pasta water, egg shells, and any other organic food waste you may be left with after a home-cooked meal. You can also use leaves collected from both your yard and your neighbors’ yards.

Local Farmers

Another great way to come into some free fertilizer is to reach out to local farms to see if they’re willing to give away some livestock waste. Unless they’re using it for their own fertilizer, they’ll likely be happy to hand it over to you.

Mulch on a Budget

There’s a free service called Chip Drop which will deliver fresh mulch directly to your house for no cost. All you have to do is sign up. Keep in mind, it may not always be convenient, and it may not be for everyone.

Cheap River Rock

River rock is actually fairly affordable when purchased from your average home improvement store. However, it’s generally even more affordable if you can find it from a local source, such as a quarry.

Need All Three?

There are usually local Facebook groups and gardening groups with like-minded people who are willing to lend a hand to anyone looking to do a little landscaping. They share everything from tools and seeds to produce.

Economic Growing Strategies

In addition to choosing native plants when possible, you can also save money by getting a little creative about what types of plants you choose and how you plant them.

Leafy Green Plants

Leafy green plants generally come at a low cost per square foot, and they add a considerable amount of depth to your landscaping.

Staggering Plant Heights

Varying the heights of your plants can provide a fuller look while requiring fewer plants to achieve it.

Perennials vs. Annuals

Avoid having to buy new plants every year by opting for perennials over annuals. The money saved on materials and the reduction in labor can be substantial.

Growing Tips

One of the best growing tips for hot tub landscaping on a budget is to start your own seedlings. Growing your own plants can be much cheaper than buying them, and it can even be a lot of fun, especially if you do it mid-winter when you can’t otherwise be out gardening. 

If you do this, save money on starter pots by drilling holes in plastic containers you have no other use for. You can use a hot glue gun tip if you don’t have a drill handy.

The landscaping for your hot tub doesn’t have to break the bank. By trying these tips, you can create the getaway of your dreams at a fraction of the cost.