8 Cheap Ways To Cover Dirt In Backyard (That Actually Look Good)

Got a backyard full of plain dirt that’s driving you crazy? Same here!

Whether you’re tired of muddy shoes or just want it to look a little less like a construction zone, there are super affordable ways to fix it without blowing your budget.

Let me walk you through 8 real-life solutions I’ve tried (or wish I had).

Why Covering Dirt in Your Backyard Actually Matters

Okay, let’s be honest, we all dream of having that Pinterest-worthy backyard. But if you’ve just moved in, finished a renovation, or the budget’s tight, covering bare dirt is usually low on the list, until it rains.

Here’s why it really does matter:

Dirt turns to mud fast. One heavy downpour and you’re slipping around or tracking gunk into the house.
It’s not pretty. A dusty, dry patch can make your whole outdoor space look neglected.
Weeds love it. And once they move in? Good luck getting them out.

Trust me, you don’t need a pro landscaper to fix it, just a few smart, cheap tricks.

1. Mulch It Over

Mulch is my go-to move. Seriously, cheap, easy, and it looks great instantly. Whether you’ve got a play area, a veggie garden, or just open space, mulch adds a warm, finished look.

Why I Love Mulch:

Super Affordable – You can even score it free from local tree services.
Natural & Low-Maintenance – It doesn’t need mowing or watering.
Great for Plants – It locks in moisture and keeps weeds out.

Pro Tips:

Use landscape fabric underneath to prevent weeds.
Choose cedar or bark mulch for a more polished look.
Refresh it yearly, it fades over time but still does the job.

2. Lay Down Inexpensive Gravel

Gravel is the no-fuss, no-mess fix for dirt areas that get foot traffic or puddles. I laid it around my side gate and haven’t looked back.

Why Gravel Works:

Great for Drainage – Stops puddles in their tracks.
Super Durable – Doesn’t wear out or blow away.
Budget-Friendly – Especially if you use pea gravel or crushed stone.

How to Use It:

Lay down landscape fabric first.
Add 2–3 inches of gravel for the best coverage.
Rake it occasionally to even it out.

Bonus: Add a few stepping stones, boom, instant garden path!

3. Roll Out Artificial Turf

Okay, I know what you’re thinking, “Fake grass?” But hear me out. Today’s turf looks surprisingly real and can save you a ton of hassle.

What Makes It Awesome:

No Watering or Mowing – Hello, lazy Sundays!
Always Green – Even in winter or droughts.
Perfect for Kids or Pets – Clean, soft, and easy to hose off.

Tips for Success:

Prep the area with sand and a level base.
Choose UV-protected turf to avoid fading.
Use seam tape and stakes for a smooth install.

It’s a bit more upfront, but no more muddy footprints, worth it.

4. Plant Ground Covers

If you’ve got time (and patience), ground covers are nature’s carpet. They spread on their own and make your backyard look alive again.

Top Picks for Ground Covers:

Creeping thyme – Smells amazing and tolerates foot traffic.
Clover – Eco-friendly, soft, and bee-friendly.
Moss – Great for shady, moist areas.

Perks:

Super Cheap – You can grow them from seed.
Low Maintenance – Once they’re in, they do their thing.
Prevents Erosion – No more dirt running off when it rains.

Heads up: These take a season or two to fully spread, worth it if you can wait!

5. Use Outdoor Rugs

This one surprised me. I bought a cheap outdoor rug during a summer sale and laid it over a dusty patio corner, total game changer.

Why Outdoor Rugs Work:

Instant Color & Style – Like, literally in 5 minutes.
No Digging Required – Perfect for renters or lazy DIYers (🙋‍♂️).
Easy to Clean – Just hose it down when needed.

Design Tips:

Use a rug pad or weed mat underneath if it’s really dusty.
Layer rugs for a boho look (super trendy right now).
Choose UV-stabilized materials so they last longer.

This one’s especially great if you’re hosting guests and want a fast fix!

6. Recycle Pallets Into Decking

Got access to old pallets? You can turn them into a cheap backyard deck or walkway that looks rustic and cool.

What You’ll Need:

Sturdy, untreated pallets (check Facebook Marketplace or local stores).
Gravel or bricks for leveling.
Outdoor wood sealant to protect from weather.

Why It Rocks:

Practically Free – Especially if you source the pallets for nothing.
DIY-Friendly – No fancy tools needed.
Customizable – Paint, stain, or leave it raw.

It’s a fun weekend project and perfect for covering large patches of dirt, without spending much at all.

7. Cover It With Straw or Hay

Straw is what I used when I needed a super quick fix before a backyard party. It’s temporary, but surprisingly charming, and rustic!

Why Choose Straw:

Incredibly Cheap – Like, $5–$10 a bale.
Kid & Pet Friendly – Soft and safe.
No Tools Required – Just spread and go.

Keep in Mind:

Use straw, not hay, hay contains seeds and can sprout.
It’s not permanent, but great for events or seasonal use.
Keep some on hand to top off bare patches as needed.

It won’t last forever, but it’s cozy, easy, and smells great too.

8. Create a Living Patio with Pavers , Plants

This is one of my favorite ideas! Use concrete pavers spaced out with low-growing plants or gravel. It’s super stylish and lets nature peek through.

Why It’s a Winner:

Affordable Materials – Pavers are cheap and easy to find.
Custom Layouts – Design it however you want.
Looks Fancy Without the Price Tag – Very Pinterest-worthy.

How to Do It:

Place pavers in a grid or organic pattern.
Fill gaps with creeping thyme, moss, or gravel.
Add solar lights to create a cozy nighttime vibe.

You’ll end up with a space that’s part garden, part patio, and all charm.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Let’s not waste money or energy. Here are a few things I learned the hard way:

Skipping ground prep, whether it’s leveling, laying weed barrier, or adding a base, skipping this step leads to sagging, weeds, or uneven surfaces.
Choosing the wrong material for your climate, don’t lay moss in full sun or straw in high-wind areas.
Not checking drainage, covering dirt without considering water runoff can make things worse.
Using hay instead of straw, unless you want a backyard full of surprise grass.

FAQ

What is the cheapest way to cover dirt in a backyard?

Straw, mulch, or reclaimed materials like pallets are some of the most affordable options. They offer decent coverage without requiring major tools or prep.

Can I just put gravel over dirt?

You can, but it’s better to put landscape fabric underneath to stop weeds and stabilize the gravel. Otherwise, it might shift or get messy after rain.

How do I make my dirt backyard pet-friendly?

Go for artificial turf, mulch, or clover. They’re all soft underfoot and easy to clean. Avoid sharp gravel or straw if your pets love to dig.

Is artificial grass a good idea for covering dirt?

Yes, if you want a clean, green, low-maintenance solution. It’s perfect for small yards, patios, or play areas, though install costs are a bit higher upfront.

How can I make a dirt backyard look nice quickly?

Use outdoor rugs, straw, or mulch for instant improvement. They’re fast to install and don’t require digging or special skills.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, 8 totally doable, budget-friendly ways to cover dirt in your backyard without hiring a landscaper or draining your wallet.

I’ve tried a few of these myself, and let me tell you, they work. Whether you go with mulch, gravel, or fake grass, there’s a solution here that fits your style, needs, and budget.

Just start small, keep it simple, and enjoy the process!