Backyard Homestead Layout
Think homesteading is only for country folk? Think again! With the right backyard homestead layout, you can create your own slice of self-sufficiency right where you are. Whether you’re in the suburbs or have a tiny urban yard, these ideas will help you take control of your food, reconnect with nature, and add a touch of rustic charm to your busy life.
Homesteading tips that show you how to turn your backyard into a mini homestead.
When we first moved to the country, I couldn’t wait to grow and raise as much of our food as possible. We jumped in headfirst, with hardly any backyard homestead layout to guide us. Sure, we had some rough ideas—a garden here, a barn over there—but we didn’t really think it through.
Looking back now, having a clear plan would’ve made everything so much easier and more efficient. Trust me, mapping it out beforehand saves you time, energy, and a lot of frustration down the road.
Homesteading No Matter Where You Live
Homesteading has come a long way from its original definition. It used to mean “acquiring and settling on land under a homestead law,” but these days, it’s more about adopting a self-sufficient lifestyle that centers around basic living. It’s about working with what you have, being creative, and cutting down on dependence on outside resources.
The best part? Homesteading isn’t limited to a specific location. It’s less about where you live and more about how you choose to live. Whether you’re in the city, suburbs, or countryside, it’s a mindset anyone can embrace.
Creating Your Ideal Backyard Homestead Layout
With smart planning and a few creative ideas, you can grow food, raise animals, and live a little more self-sufficiently, no matter where you call home. Here’s how to design a layout that works for you, plus tips on what to include and why each area matters.
Step 1: Map Out Your Space
Start by drawing a simple sketch of your backyard. Include your house, any permanent structures, fences, and your available open space. This doesn’t have to be fancy. Just give yourself a clear picture of what you’re working with.
Next, think about sun exposure. Most plants and trees will thrive in areas with plenty of sunlight, so take note of spots that receive morning and afternoon sun versus shade. Finally, consider access points for water and how you’ll move between areas like the garden, coop, or compost bin.
What to Include in Your Layout
#1. Garden
Why include it? A garden is the heart of any homestead. It provides fresh vegetables, herbs, and even flowers that can beautify your space. Homegrown food is fresher and healthier, and growing it yourself can cut down on grocery bills.
Where to put it: Place your garden in the sunniest spot in your yard. A spot near your kitchen or patio is also convenient, so you can grab fresh veggies or herbs when cooking.
Small space tip: If you’re short on ground space, consider growing a patio garden or even growing vertical. Use trellises for climbing plants like cucumbers or beans. You can also try hanging baskets for strawberries or herbs. Raised beds are another great option for maximizing your growing area, keeping your garden organized, and saving your back from too much bending.
#2. Chicken Coop
Why include it? Chickens provide fresh eggs and nutrient-rich compost for your garden. They also help control pests by eating insects giving you healthier soil to grow in.
Where to put it: Keep the chicken coop in a shaded area to protect your hens from overheating. Make sure it’s close to the garden so you can conveniently compost their droppings or enjoy their help with pest control if you allow supervised free-ranging.
Small space tip: If you don’t have room for a large coop, look for compact, multi-level designs made for small or urban backyards. Some even come with a built-in run underneath to save space.
#3. Beehive
Why include it? Bees are fantastic pollinators, which means they’ll help your plants, fruit trees, and flowers thrive. Plus, who doesn’t love fresh honey?
Where to put it: Beehives should be placed in a sunny, low-traffic area of your yard. Make sure it’s far enough away from any seating or high-traffic zones to keep you and your visitors comfortable.
Small space tip: Don’t have room for a garden and bees? Try becoming a bee-friendly homesteader by planting pollinator flowers in containers around your patio, attracting bees to your area naturally.
Outdoor Chicken Coop for 2-4 Chickens Wooden Hen House Poultry Pet Hutch Run Cage w/Waterproof Asphalt Roof, Ramp, Nesting Box, Wire Fence (80
Beehive Starter Kit 10-Frame Bee Boxes and Frames Starter Kit Wax Coated Bee Hives and Supplies Starter Kit Including Beekeeping Tools Kit with Beekeeping VeilBest Choice Products 48x24x30in Raised Garden Bed, Elevated Wood Planter Box Stand for Backyard, Patio, Balcony w/Bed Liner, 200lb Capacity – Natural
#4. Fruit Trees
Why include it? Fresh fruit grown at home is unbeatable. Fruit trees are long-term producers that provide shade, food, and beauty all in one.
Where to put them: Fruit trees should be planted along the edges of your yard to maximize the use of space. Keep them in a sunny location where they won’t block light to your garden. Dwarf or semi-dwarf fruit trees are a great choice for smaller yards.
Small space tip: If your space is really tight, grow fruit trees in large containers that can be moved as needed. Espalier trees, which grow flat against a wall or trellis, are another space-saving option.
Additional Features to Consider in your backyard homestead layout
#5. Water Collection
Install a rain barrel under a downspout to collect and store water for your garden and plants. This is not only sustainable but can also save you money on your water bill. For smaller spaces, look for slimline rain barrels that fit against your home without taking up too much room.
#6. Compost Area
A compost bin is a must-have for turning food scraps, yard waste, and chicken droppings into nutrient-packed soil for your garden. Place your compost bin in a shaded spot near the garden, so it’s easy to access.
For smaller spaces, a compact compost tumbler is a great option. It’s space-efficient and helps you make the most your available area.
PYY Rain Water Collection Barrel – 100 Gallon Black Water Storage Tank with Spigots, Hose and Portable Bucket, Large Plastic Collapsible Rain Catcher Catchment System to Collect Rainwater from GutterEAST OAK Compost Tumbler Outdoor, 43-Gal Dual Chamber Compost Bin with 2 Sliding Door and Aeration System, Tumbling Rotating Composter Bin for Kitchen, Garden, YardJupiterForce Garden Compost Bin 80 Gallon (300 L) from BPA Free Material, Large Composting Bin Outdoor Composter, Easy Assembling, Fast Creation of Fertile Soil, Lightweight, Black
#7. Patio Gardening
Need more space to grow? Consider your patio or deck area. You’d be surprised how much you grow in containers, and they’re perfect for making the most of limited space. Here are some fun and practical ideas to get you started:
- Go vertical: Use tiered planters or wall-mounted racks to grow herbs, leafy greens, or even tomatoes. These not only save space but also keep things neat and organized.
- Self-watering containers: These are a lifesaver for patio gardening. They cut down on maintenance and make sure your plants stay hydrated without constant effort.
- Grow bags: Try planting salad greens in grow bags. They’re compact, lightweight, and great for growing fresh greens for your summer meals.
- Hanging baskets: Perfect for trailing plants like strawberries, beans, or cucumbers. They add beauty while keeping your patio floor clear.
- Mini herb garden: Line up small pots of herbs like basil, mint, or thyme on your patio table for easy access when cooking.
Putting It All Together
If you have a medium-sized backyard, here’s an example of how you might arrange your layout:
- Garden: Sunniest spot in your yard, near the house for easy access.
- Chicken Coop: A shaded corner, close to the garden for composting convenience.
- Beehive: Far edge of the yard, sunny and away from heavy foot traffic.
- Fruit Trees: Along the perimeter to provide shade while saving central space.
For a tiny yard or patio, try this setup:
- Garden: Use vertical planters or window boxes on sunny walls.
- Chicken Coop: Opt for a compact design with a built-in run.
- Bee-Friendly Plants: Use containers with wildflowers or herbs near your vertical plants.
- Composting: A countertop composter or small tumbler can do wonders.
By planning out your backyard homestead layout, even the smallest spaces can become a productive oasis. Start with what you can manage, and take it step by step. Over time, you’ll refine your space into a well-oiled homesteading haven that works for you and your lifestyle.
