1.Does your lawn need de-thatching, or a good, deep raking to lift out dead weeds and grasses? Once that is done, you can encourage lush, new growth by using a rolling application cart to deliver both fertilizer and weedkiller to the lawn. Fertilize in late Spring and Autumn.

2. Mow properly. If you have a mulching mower, it will cut so that the grass is scattered in small bits, back onto the lawn, fertilizing as it goes. For regular mowers, purchase a bag attachment so that the clippings come off the lawn with you, or mow at a higher setting, and more often, so that you take off just the smallest amount, and it can remain on the lawn and not interfere with the growth.

3. Scatter a variety of grass seed for shaded areas or sunny areas, choose the appropriate seed. Add topsoil if needed before spreading the seed.

4. For adding a little color to the yard, try planting some flowering shrubs.

5. Consider planting bushes that will develop berries that linger into the fall and winter.

6. Try planting climbing plants along fences or posts the length of it, including the annual Morning Glory, or floribunda roses. Clematis will also climb clothesline poles and turn them into a tower of beautiful blooms.

7. Perennial gardens -- you can plant a bed with enough different flowers that you’ll have blooms throughout the whole season, and plants that come back every year.

8. Try putting a pond in the backyard. There are pond liners that will slip into the area you have dug out. Plant some water-loving greenery and flowers around the perimeter. If you want to put fish in the pond -- you will need pumps. etc.

9. For pathways, choose from the highly decorative stepping stones.Add a birdbath or water fountain in the center of the lawn. And for just a touch of color, decorative urns on either side of your front door/steps, planted with bright red geraniums.

10. House and garden flags are an excellent way to add color to your lawn and driveway. Garden flags look wonderful planted along a path. Celebrate special occasions, holidays and the changing of seasons, with inexpensive flags that can be used year after year.