Even though school is back in session, the days are still warm, the pool is still inviting and summer hasn’t quite loosened its grip. But cool weather is just around the corner – and that means prime time for enjoying your outdoor living spaces. This is the season for coffee on the porch, evening tea under the stars and breathing in the crisp autumn air without the swarm of summer’s flying pests.
I’m currently wrapping up a re-screening project at my own home, getting ready for those quiet mornings and peaceful evenings outside. Now is the perfect time to start planning and improving your own outdoor space so that it’s ready for peak use this fall. Patio improvements don’t have to be major undertakings. Simple steps like pressure washing, adding colorful seasonal plants or refreshing your outdoor furniture can transform the feel of your space.
While we’re still about a month away from the ideal planting season in Central Virginia, it’s never too early to plan. Some of my favorite moments come from looking back at shrubs and trees I planted years ago, remembering when they were small and imagining how they’d grow. A single gallon-size plant might not seem impressive at first, but the older I get, the faster time flies – and before you know it, you’ll have a beautiful specimen shaping your landscape.
Another low-cost, high-impact project is mulching. Fresh mulch instantly brightens garden beds and helps retain moisture for plants. For smaller spaces, bagged mulch works just fine, but for larger areas, consider having bulk mulch delivered. Better yet – make it a family activity. There’s something special about working together to haul and spread that sweet-smelling ground cover, creating memories along the way. If all of this sounds overwhelming, remember: you don’t have to redo your entire yard. Start small. Give just one landscape bed a facelift. Even a single large potted arrangement near your porch or patio can make a big difference, offering a splash of color and a warm welcome as autumn approaches.
Fall is one of the best times to be outside in Central Virginia. With a little planning and a few simple improvements now, you can create an inviting retreat to enjoy for months to come. Whether it’s sipping your morning coffee surrounded by fresh blooms, watching the leaves turn from your porch or gathering with friends by a fire pit, your outdoor space can be just as cozy and welcoming as the inside of your home.
Billy Morris
2025 President of the Lynchburg Association of Realtors
Associate Broker at John Stewart Walker Inc.