Let's Get Back Outside: 5 Ways to Reset Your Yard for Fall

For many homeowners, the return of fall also means a return to a regular routine. The kids are back in school, the days get a little shorter, and you may find yourself using your outdoor space differently than you did during the summer. But just because summer is over doesn’t mean you have to stop enjoying time outside. A few simple changes can help your backyard work better for the season ahead.

Here are five ways to reset your outdoor space for fall:

Pack Away Summer Accessories

Before making any updates, take a look around and consider which items you no longer use regularly now that summer is over. This might mean packing up towels, putting away water toys, or storing umbrellas.

While you’re at it, think about what worked well this summer while the memory is fresh in your mind. Did you use some areas more than others? Was there anything you wished you had? Make note of any changes you’d like to make before next summer, whether that means rearranging your layout, adding furniture, or finding a better way to create shade.

Refresh Your Outdoor Space

After a summer of regular use, your outdoor space could probably use a refresh. Hose down the patio, scrub the grill, wipe down outdoor furniture, and clear away any accumulated dirt or clutter.

A clean outdoor space feels more inviting and helps keep everything ready to use throughout the year. It’s also a good opportunity to take stock of anything that needs to be repaired, replaced, or refreshed before the next season.

Add Lighting for Earlier Sunsets

As the days get shorter, outdoor time doesn’t have to end when the sun goes down. Adding lighting can help you continue using your backyard into the evening while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

String lights, table lamps, fire features, or lighting integrated into your patio cover can all help illuminate your outdoor space after sunset. Think about the areas you use most and add lighting where it will make the biggest difference.

Make Room to Gather

Fall is a great time to make your backyard feel a little more inviting. Arrange seating so family and friends can comfortably sit together, whether you’re enjoying dinner, having a conversation, or spending time around a fire.

For an added touch, keep a basket of blankets nearby for cooler evenings or set up a speaker for your favorite playlist. Small additions like these can make your outdoor space feel like a place you and your guests want to linger a little longer.

Evaluate Your Shade

As you reflect on your summer, don’t forget to think about shade. Was your backyard too hot to enjoy during the afternoon? Did you find yourself retreating indoors when the sun was strongest? Did certain areas of your yard go mostly unused because they were uncomfortable?

If so, fall is a great time to start planning for more shade. Thinking through what worked, what didn’t, and how you want to use your backyard next summer gives you plenty of time to explore your options and have your space ready when the warmer months return.

Let’s Get Back Outside This Fall

Just because summer is over doesn’t mean you need to stop using and enjoying your outdoor space. As the seasons change, a fall reset can help you make the most of your backyard now while also thinking ahead to how you want to use it next year. Think your backyard could benefit from more shade? Schedule a free consultation with our patio specialists today.