Decorating & Design
9 Ways To Upgrade Your Backyard Before Summer Ends
Updated on November 28, 2023
Trying to squeeze every bit of summer out of your backyard? Here are some ideas to make those precious days even better (and make next summer sweeter).
Snag Some Bargain Trees
As garden centres wind down, they’re eager to move plant material, so now is a great time to pick up pricy items like trees on sale. Planting trees in the fall gives them an extra growing season before the stress of summer. Plus, the combination of cooler temperatures and fall rain allows trees to establish their roots.
Add A Privacy Screen
Were you feeling a bit exposed this season? If you want to create some privacy now is the time to install a trellis and plant some ivy or climbing hydrangea plants at the base. But next summer the tendrils will start curling up for a curtain of leaves that will shade prying eyes.
Divide Plants
Grow your garden without added expense by dividing plants like hostas or spring flowering plants like peonies or daylilies. Plants should be divided every three to five years and are less likely to succumb to pests and diseases.
Dress Up Seating Areas
These Muskoka chairs get an instant late summer vibe by layering in throws and pillows for color and comfort.
Create A Drinks Station
Lynda Reeves used this Victorian plant stand to hold an assortment of potted herbs. It accommodates a pitcher, ice bucket and glasses when she’s entertaining.
Invest In Quality Furniture
Sales are rife in outdoor furniture stores, if you have been eyeing a patio set or chairs, many are discounted. Finish your backyard with more affordable accents, like pillows and string lights, to complete your space.
Add Some Heat
Nothing sparks a sense of a communal conversation like gathering around a fire when the nights cool. If you have been mulling over whether to add a fire pit, it will get plenty of use over the next few weeks.
Order Your Bulbs!
Everyone loves spring color but you have to put in the work beforehand, then be patient — bulbs are typically planted in late fall. When you order from an online site like Breck’s Bulbs, they will mail them to you according to the proper planting time for your hardiness zone so you don’t have to store them over summer.
Consider Ferns
Ferns are some of the easiest care plants out there (they never need staking, pinching or pruning) and the dense fronds discourage weeds. Ferns boast a huge fall bonus when they wilt back to their crowns: no leaves to rake!