Autumn is typically seen as a time to scale back the time we spend in our gardens, as temperatures drop and nights draw in earlier. However, there’s still a lot of joy and colour to be had in an autumn garden, and we’re all about extending the season.
So, how can we make the most of our gardens throughout the colder months? From autumn planting to entertaining activities, we have lots of suggestions for you.
Autumn Planting
If your garden is looking a little bare, the autumn season is the perfect time to think about adding interesting new plants to enjoy this season, as well as the next. Autumn’s damp, warm soil is perfect for a variety of things, so if you think it’s too late to add new plants for autumn colour, think again.
Here are a few of our favourites you can plant right now.
Acers
Acer trees are explosions of colour in autumn, providing a dramatic focal point in your garden. There are a wide variety of colourful trees you can choose from, from bright yellows to deep reds. Opt for a larger, mature acer tree if you want an immediate statement.
Roses
Autumn planting is perfect for rose bushes, which will burst into life with lots of new growth when spring arrives. Pick a highly scented variety and your garden will be fragrant through the summer. If you have a pergola or arch, a climbing rose will add colour and depth to the structure.
Spring Bulbs
Spring blooms add much-needed colour at a time our gardens can look pretty dull and bare. Plant a selection of bulbs now in borders and plant pots and you’ll be enjoying a vibrant space when spring arrives. Some of our favourites are:
- Tulips
- Daffodils
- Crocus
- Hyacinth
- Alliums
Outdoor Heating and Lighting
As the nights close in and temperatures drop, our gardens naturally become less inviting – but we can change that.
Adorn your seating space with warm outdoor heating to give a cosy autumnal atmosphere. Free-standing lamps, hanging lights and strings of fairy lights are all excellent choices that will provide atmosphere as well as light.
Next, take the chill off with a fire pit table or a stylish electric heater. Position this much-needed heating source nearby your most comfortable furniture, and complete the look with cosy blankets and cushions. Together, these additions will give you an inviting space to spend long relaxing evenings in.
Autumn Garden Activities
The joys of an autumn garden extend beyond cosy evenings in front of a roaring fire. Here are some of our favourite garden activities to enjoy this season.
Collect and Dry Flowers
Dried flower bouquets are a long-lasting and beautiful alternative to fresh bouquets. As the last flowers bloom, collect and dry them to create your own dried flower arrangements at home. Large flowers like hyacinths are perfect, though any can be used. Simply hang in a warm, dry place with good air circulation for 2-3 weeks, or until completely dry.
Help Your Garden Birds
Adding a birdfeeder to your garden is one of the easiest ways to encourage more wild birds into your outdoor space. Make sure it is placed somewhere you can watch the birds come and go without disturbing them. Adding nesting boxes is great too, and there are different varieties available – some of which even cater for specific species, such as owls and house martins.
Autumn BBQs
With the right set-up, we firmly believe you can BBQ every day of the year. Your BBQ may also be more versatile than you think – for instance our Everdure BBQ range can cook pizzas and rotisserie, as well as more standard BBQ fare.
For the ultimate autumn BBQ, we don’t think you can beat a decadent Sunday roast served up with plenty of fresh seasonable vegetables. It’s a meal sure to wow family and friends.
Enjoy Your Autumn Garden
We hope you’re feeling inspired to spend more time in your garden this season. And if transforming your outdoor space is on your to-do list, we can help.
Take a look at our wide selection of outdoor lighting and heating and get set for long, luxurious nights outside.
