What are good cool-weather plantings for fall?

Beyond mums, consider cool-season options like cabbage, rainbow chard, ornamental grasses, pansies, violas, and black-eyed Susans to add color and depth.

Is fall a good time to add a fire pit or fireplace?

Yes. Fire pits and fireplaces extend outdoor entertaining into the cooler months and can be tailored to your space in gas or wood-burning styles.

How can I make my landscaping more eco-friendly in fall?

Compost grass and leaf clippings, or mulch leaves by mowing at a higher blade setting to recycle nutrients and protect root systems.

What structures help with sun and weather protection?

Covered pergolas and pavilions with pivoting louvers offer shade and rain protection. Add fans or heaters for comfortable gatherings.

What should I trim back in fall?

Evaluate shrubs and plants for overgrowth, mildew, or rot. Old-wood hydrangeas like oakleaf and mophead may need cutbacks to promote future blooms.

September 4, 2025

Fall Outdoor Living Trends to Try

Top Ways to Upgrade Your Backyard

As summer’s long, carefree days begin to lessen and families head back home from vacation, it’s time to give your property a fall refresh. There’s no better time to work on your yard, as the soil is easier to move and heavy rainfall hasn’t flooded newly planted root systems.

Fall also gives owners more than six months to design and install a new project for your family to enjoy once spring arrives. There are several ways you can enhance your property:

Add Color and Depth with Cool Weather Plantings

While mums are one of fall’s prettiest and most popular plants, there are plenty of other options to try. Consider cool-season vegetables and greens such as cabbage, rainbow chard, and ornamental grasses. The deep greens and purples of these plants pair well with fall’s trademark colors. Pansies, violas, and black-eyed Susans can also add splashes of seasonal color.

Install Fire Pits and Fireplaces

Outdoor fires are one of the most iconic aspects of fall. Adding a fire pit or fireplace with comfortable seating extends outdoor entertaining all season long. They can be adapted to fit any style, shape, and size. Gas and wood burning fire pits and fireplaces are one of the best ways to enjoy your backyard year-round.

Eco-Friendly Options

Composting is one of the most green and cost-effective methods for recycling your grass and leaf clippings. As the trees begin to shed, consider composting them instead of dumping them. You can also mow your lawn on a higher blade setting to simply cut the leaves up, helping protect the root systems.

Get Protection from the Elements

If your backyard gets a lot of sun exposure, consider adding a covered pergola or pavilion. These state-of-the-art structures can adapt to weather conditions with pivoting louvers to keep rain and direct sunlight from affecting guests. Add fans or heating elements to hosts friends and family for football games. Pergolas and pavilions are a smart investment in your home.

Trim Overgrowth

Spring and summer are the biggest seasons for plant and shrub growth. Make sure you evaluate your home and trim back overgrown plants. Oakleaf and mophead hydrangeas are old wood varieties that should be cut back so they bloom again. Check your plants for any dry rot or mildew from the excessively warm summer we just experienced.

If you’re looking to make a change to your home, fall is the time to do so.

Contact DiSabatino Inc. for a complementary consultation and discover what our team members can design to make your backyard an outdoor oasis that everyone can enjoy.

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