How to Extend Your Outdoor Living Season in Bend and Redmond: Fall Patio and Landscape Ideas
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to drop in Bend and Redmond, Oregon, it can be tempting to retreat indoors. However, with a few thoughtful additions and adjustments, you can extend your outdoor living season well into the fall. Whether you enjoy relaxing with a good book or hosting outdoor gatherings, these patio and landscape ideas will help you create a cozy, functional space that can be enjoyed even as the weather cools.
1. Add Outdoor Heating
One of the best ways to keep your outdoor space comfortable in the fall is by adding a source of heat. There are several options to consider:
• Fire Pits: A fire pit not only provides warmth but also creates a focal point for your outdoor space. Gather around the fire with friends and family to enjoy crisp autumn evenings.
• Patio Heaters: Freestanding or mounted patio heaters are an excellent option for larger spaces. They can provide consistent warmth, making it comfortable to spend time outside even when the temperature drops.
• Outdoor Fireplaces: An outdoor fireplace adds a touch of elegance and coziness to your patio. It’s a perfect option if you want to create a more permanent feature in your landscape.
2. Incorporate Cozy Seating
Comfortable seating is key to making your outdoor space inviting. To extend the use of your patio or deck during the fall, consider adding:
• Outdoor Rugs and Cushions: Layering outdoor rugs and adding plush cushions to your seating areas can make the space feel warmer and more inviting. Look for weather-resistant materials that can withstand the elements.
• Blankets and Throws: Keep a basket of blankets and throws handy for those cooler evenings. They’re perfect for wrapping up while enjoying the fresh air.
• Wicker or Wood Furniture: Wicker and wood furniture provide a natural, rustic feel that complements the fall season. Pair them with soft cushions and pillows to enhance comfort.
3. Enhance Lighting
As daylight fades earlier in the fall, adding extra lighting to your outdoor space can make a significant difference. Consider the following options:
• String Lights: String lights add a warm, inviting glow to any outdoor space. Drape them over pergolas, along fences, or above seating areas to create a magical atmosphere.
• Lanterns and Candles: Lanterns and candles provide soft, ambient lighting that enhances the cozy feel of your patio. Use battery-operated candles for safety, or opt for real candles in enclosed lanterns to prevent them from blowing out.
• Pathway Lights: Illuminate walkways and garden paths with pathway lights to create a safe and welcoming environment.
4. Use Seasonal Plantings
Fall is the perfect time to refresh your landscape with seasonal plantings. Add color and texture to your outdoor space with:
• Mums and Pansies: These hardy flowers thrive in cooler temperatures and add vibrant color to your garden beds and containers.
• Ornamental Grasses: Ornamental grasses provide movement and texture to your landscape. They’re especially beautiful in the fall when their feathery plumes catch the light.
• Fall Planters: Create fall-themed planters using pumpkins, gourds, and autumnal flowers. These can be placed on your patio or front porch to add a festive touch.
5. Create a Windbreak
If your outdoor space is exposed to strong winds, consider creating a windbreak to make it more comfortable:
• Outdoor Curtains: Hang outdoor curtains around your patio or pergola to block the wind and add a touch of elegance.
• Hedges and Shrubs: Planting tall hedges or shrubs around the perimeter of your outdoor space can help reduce wind and create a more sheltered environment.
• Screen Panels: Freestanding screen panels can be strategically placed to block the wind and define your outdoor living area.
Conclusion
Extending your outdoor living season in Bend and Redmond, Oregon, is all about making your space warm, inviting, and functional during the fall. By incorporating heating elements, cozy seating, enhanced lighting, seasonal plantings, and windbreaks, you can create an outdoor oasis that you’ll enjoy well into the cooler months. Don’t let the changing seasons keep you indoors—embrace the crisp fall air and make the most of your outdoor living area.