Summer may be over, but that doesn’t mean you need to say goodbye to your outdoor oasis for the season. There are plenty of fun things to do outside in your backyard in fall – especially if you add in a few key items to make the transition into autumn a little bit easier. From easy decor swaps to practical backyard design ideas to keep you cozier as the temperature cools, these 10 items will help you enjoy your backyard long into the fall.
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A Little More Light
The days may be getting shorter, but you can still spend time enjoying the fresh air in your backyard – all you need is a bit more glow. Outdoor string lights illuminate your deck or backyard for practical purposes, and they look pretty, too. AmazonBasics White Patio String Lights, Amazon, $43.
Related: The Days Are Getting Shorter: Outdoor Lighting Ideas to Brighten up Your Backyard or Balcony
A Cozy Throw
One of the easiest ways to enjoy your summer-time outdoor setup in the fall is to layer on soft, warm textiles. A durable, machine-washable blanket is a simple backyard idea on a budget, but it can make all the difference when you want to relax and enjoy autumn sunsets outdoors. Opt for a design that’s easy to pack up in a warm colour palette for a stylish seasonal look. Outdoor Throw Blanket, Indigo, $60.
Related: Bedroom Decor Ideas to Make Your Space Cozy for Autumn and Winter
A Fall-Ready Doormat
Fall means more mud, leaves and muck underfoot – but don’t let that deter you from enjoying your backyard in the autumn months. Embrace your backyard time this season – while still keeping your home clean – with a charming doormat in neutral or fall hues. Shop for a budget-friendly option, or DIY your own (here’s how to make one). Home Sweet Home Doormat, Simons, $14.
Related: Beautiful Canadian Backyard Escapes Perfect for Fall
A Touch of Colour Therapy
If you’re already totally in love with your outdoor space, there’s no need to worry about taking on a big backyard reno for fall. Enjoying your backyard in fall can be as simple as adding in a few fall decor items in an autumnal colour palette. If you already have a few outdoor pillows on your backyard furniture, for example, consider changing out the covers for waterproof designs in shades of orange, yellow and red to match the falling leaves this season. MIULEE 4-Pack Outdoor Waterproof Pillow Covers, Amazon, $37.
Related: Timeless Backyard Ideas and Trends to Make You Fall Back in Love With Your Yard
A Bit of Fall Foliage
Gardening and green living aren’t just for the summer. Transition your backyard to fall by swapping out summer flowers with plants that thrive in cooler temperatures – whether that means filling a chic planter with autumn apropos mums or planting a season-specific garden. Not sure what will grow best this autumn? Read our planting guide to learn what (and when) to plant this fall. Veradek V-Resin Indoor/Outdoor Taper Planter, Amazon Canada, $90.
Related: Festive Front Porch Decorating Ideas for Fall (Plus Halloween Too!)
A Place to Set Your Cocoa
There’s nothing quite like a warm mug of hot chocolate on a crisp fall day – especially when you can sip it right in your own backyard. But where will you rest your cup? While we think of spring as the best time to buy outdoor furniture, the right pieces can work in autumn (and all year long). The secret is to invest in pieces that can stand up to cooler days. This made-for-outdoors end table, for example, is water safe, easy to clean and frost resistant for the fall – but you’ll also love it next summer. Savana Terrazzo Outdoor Stool, $250, Indigo.
Related: How to Clean Outdoor Furniture Like a Pro: Everything You Need to Know
A Source of Heat
Want to enjoy an open-air meal in the autumn months? One way to make outdoor dining more enjoyable when the temperature dips is to invest in a little extra heat via an outdoor heater. This gas patio heater, for example, brings just enough warmth to keep your outdoor space cozy. AmazonBasics Outdoor Patio Heater, Amazon Canada, $229.
Related: Want Some Fresh Air This Winter? These Patio Staples Are Perfect for Outdoor Gatherings
A Crackling Fire
If you have enough outdoor space to do so safely, a backyard fire pit is another way to bring warmth (and s’mores) to chilly days – and extend your outdoor oasis into cooler months. Want more low-cost ways to make a big impact in your backyard – year round? Backyard Builds‘ expert contractor Brian McCourt has rounded up some smart staycation-worthy ideas for you. Sunnydaze Northland Outdoor Fire Pit, Amazon Canada, $213.
Pretty Pumpkins
Let’s face it: nothing says autumn quite like pumpkins. Adding a touch or two of pumpkin decor to your backyard design this season is a fast-track to creating a fun fall feel. Go for decorations in neutral tones that will be more stylish than spooky, or DIY your own pumpkin-themed decorations for a personal touch. HBlife 12-Pc. Artificial Pumpkin Decorations, Amazon Canada, $43.
A Fun Floor Pillow
Don’t let the cold ground or dewy grass keep you from sitting outside in nature on sunny autumn days. An outdoor floor pillow in weather-resistant material makes it comfier to sit down and relax in your yard. OUI Tufted Lounge Pillow, Indigo, $80.
Related: Make Your Home Stand Out From its Neighbours With These Genius DIY Ideas
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