How to Transition Your Backyard Into Fall With These 10 Items

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.

All products featured on HGTV Canada are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy through links in this article, we earn an affiliate commission.

white string lights on wood fence at night

Amazon

1 / 10

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.

Indigo

2 / 10

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.

Simons

3 / 10

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.

Amazon

4 / 10

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.

Amazon

5 / 10

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.

Indigo

6 / 10

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.

Amazon

7 / 10

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.

Amazon

8 / 10

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.

Amazon

9 / 10

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.

Indigo

10 / 10

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.