Fall is the magical season when landscapes transform into a dazzling palette of warm hues. Deciduous trees stand out with gold, amber, and crimson leaves while wispy grasses dance gently in the crisp air. This setting creates a scenic backdrop for a cozy and inviting outdoor retreat. If you want to refresh your backyard and add a seasonal flair, here are autumn landscaping ideas you can implement.
Jewel-Toned Bloomers
Though many flowers begin to fade as temperatures cool, several hardy perennials thrive in autumn. Chrysanthemums display various colors, ranging from deep reds and purples to bright yellows and oranges, making them a fall staple. Asters are another classic flower. These delicate, star-shaped blossoms bloom from late summer through autumn, adding blue, pink, and lavender touches to any garden. Other fall favorites include:
- Autumn Joy Sedum
- Coneflowers
- Dahlias
- Hydrangeas
- Purple Pansies
- Yarrows
Eye-Catching Greenery
Ornamental grasses infuse outdoor spaces with texture, movement, and depth. Among the most popular types are fountain grass, switchgrass, and feather reed grass. These plume-like grasses change into rich gold or bronze as the season shifts and sway mesmerizingly at the slightest breeze.
When it comes to groundcovers, consider adding ajuga or creeping thyme. These low-maintenance options suppress weeds and change to red and purple shades as autumn progresses.
Multicolored Foliage
Paint your landscape with trees and shrubs whose leaves change color as autumn advances. Add Japanese maples for fiery reds and oranges, dogwoods for burgundy and purple hues, or oakleaf hydrangeas for blooms that transition from white to rich fall colors.
While vibrant foliage makes your yard look lively, adding less flashy types can balance out its overall appearance and maintain visual interest. For instance, the cool shades of evergreens like boxwood and pine trees perfectly contrast the warm tones of deciduous trees and shrubs.
Sophisticated Topiaries
Neatly clipped boxwood, privet, or yew topiaries bring a sense of form and structure to outdoor areas. Their sculpted shapes, whether geometric or free-form, contrast beautifully with loose branches of shrubs and swishy ornamental grasses. Juxtaposing such landscaping elements stimulates visual interest and enhances curb appeal.
Comfy Outdoor Furniture
Al fresco meals and outdoor relaxation are cozier in the fall. So, consider using functional, aesthetic furniture that withstand cooler weather and rainfall. Cushioned seats, plush pillows, throw blankets, and charming rugs can add a homey touch to your patio, deck, or entertainment area.
If you want to keep your backyard organized and neat, go for multipurpose furnishings like coffee tables and benches with built-in storage compartments. These are ideal for small yards and let you easily store and access blankets, firewood, and other essentials.
Fall Decorations and Accents
Seasonal touches make a huge difference in your space’s atmosphere. Pumpkins, gourds, potted blossoms, and other natural accents give your yard a festive vibe while blending seamlessly with the landscape. If you want your backyard to have a rustic feel, use wooden crates and hay bales. They can function as décor, seating, or surfaces for food and drinks.
Warmth and Lighting
An outdoor fireplace, fire pit, or portable heater is a backyard must-have because evenings become cooler in autumn. The warm glowing fire becomes a striking element in your yard and invites guests to gather for warmth and meaningful conversation. In addition, mellow, ambient lighting magnifies your space’s homey feel. You can drape string lights over fences for a sparkling glow and hang lanterns along walkways to create soft pools of light across your garden.
Creating Focal Points
Establishing a focal point in backyards draws the eyes towards a center of activity or attention, creating visual interest and flow. For example, you can place a statement piece or a plant with multicolored leaves or blossoms as a centerpiece to appreciate its full autumn glory. Then, arrange the rest of your yard’s elements in your yard to complement each other without overpowering the point of interest.
Place autumn blooms in wood or ceramic planters strategically around seats or a nook to form a natural frame. Similarly, line foliage with stunning colors around patios or al fresco dining spaces can elevate the area’s visual appeal. Overall, setting up focal points is a matter of balancing your landscape’s components.
Savor the Season in Style
Craft an outdoor retreat that embraces autumn vibes by utilizing the best seasonal flora and thoughtfully planning your landscape design. There are endless ways to enjoy nature’s splendor in the fall while relaxing and staying warm outdoors with family and guests.
So, why wait? Connect with your trusted local landscape designers to start transforming your backyard, or explore more autumn landscaping ideas that are right up your alley.
