Even if your budget doesn't allow for a cutting-edge electric mower or the services of a professional lawn-care service, don't despair. Our newly revamped Lawn & Garden Guide's articles, videos, and interactives are chock-full of tricks that will save you money, whether you're just fixing a small patch of lawn or revamping acres of outdoor spaces as a newly sprouted ruralpolitan.

Sub-$500 yard makeovers. Yards can be transformed by layering low-cost (and different height) plants, laying down mulch, using vine-covered lattice sections and installing low-voltage outdoor lighting. See "10 Questions for... landscape designer Julie Moir Messervy" for more ways to expand your inner gardener and outdoor vistas.

Low-cost landscaping. Savvy planning, soil testing (see this video on our tests of soil-test kits), mulching, and watering save time and money spent on fertilizers. Choosing the grass that grows best in your area lowers cost of fertilizer and pesticides. Cooperative extension services from your local university can prove a wealth of good gardening information; you can find state-by-state listings here.