As summer fades and the crisp air of autumn rolls in, it may be time to give your outdoor space a seasonal refresh. Whatever region you live in, the shift from warm to cooler weather offers an ideal opportunity to make your porch or backyard feel inviting and functional for fall.
At Newrez, we’re here for your whole homeownership journey, and we know many homeowners take pride in amping up the cozy factor as the temperatures drop. Read on to find out how to radiate fall vibes from your front door while readying your landscape for colder weather.
1. Swap Out Summer Decor for Fall-Friendly Touches
If you have outdoor furniture, it’s time to retire the bright colors and tropical patterns of summer and replace them with warm, earthy tones like burnt orange, deep burgundy, forest green and golden yellow. Swap out your outdoor cushions and rugs, and maybe even incorporate a cozy flannel throw blanket or textured pillows. Most critical of all: pick out the perfect fall-themed wreath.
Pro tip: Incorporate natural elements like pinecones, dried corn stalks and pumpkins to instantly evoke fall vibes.
2. Create Warmth with Lighting and Heat
As the days get shorter, lighting becomes essential. String lights, lanterns and solar-powered path lights can add ambiance and extend the usability and safety of your outdoor space well into the evening.
Pro tip: If you’re in a region where temperatures dip significantly, consider adding a fire pit, outdoor heater or chiminea. These not only provide warmth but also serve as a cozy gathering spot for friends and family.
3. Tidy Up Your Garden Beds and Lawn
Give your landscaping a clean slate. Begin by removing spent summer annuals, trimming back overgrown perennials, and clearing away any dead leaves or debris. This not only improves curb appeal, but also helps prevent pests and disease from settling in as the weather cools.
Rake your lawn regularly to keep it healthy and allow sunlight to reach the grass. If you have mulch, fluff it up or add a fresh layer to insulate plant roots and maintain moisture as temperatures drop.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to clean out gutters and downspouts—fall leaves can clog drainage and lead to water damage.
4. Add Fall-Friendly Plants and Seasonal Color
Once your garden is cleaned up, it’s time to bring in the stars of the season. Autumn is ideal for planting hardy flowers like mums, pansies, and asters, which thrive in cooler temperatures and add vibrant color to your outdoor space. Ornamental kale and cabbage also offer bold texture and rich hues that complement fall décor.
Pro tip: If you’re planning ahead, now’s the time to plant spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. They’ll lie dormant through winter and surprise you with color when the weather warms up again.
5. Embrace Seasonal Entertaining
Autumn is prime time for outdoor entertaining. Host a backyard bonfire, set up a s’mores station, carve pumpkins on the porch or plan a cozy dinner under the stars. With the right setup, your outdoor space can be just as enjoyable in fall as it is in summer—if not more.
Add a Bluetooth speaker for soft music, stock up on warm beverages like cider or hot chocolate and keep extra blankets on hand for guests.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning your outdoor space for autumn only requires a few thoughtful changes to reflect the season and keep your plants healthy. By embracing cozy textures, warm lighting and seasonal plants, you’ll create a space that’s perfect for crisp mornings, golden afternoons and chilly evenings.
Dreaming of buying a new home? Considering pulling cash from your equity to fund a home makeover? Whatever your homeownership needs, Newrez mortgage experts are happy to help you find great solutions. Reach out today.
