Fall is just around the corner, and we're helping Bettendorf get ready for the seasonal shift with our experts' top fall garden ideas! In this guide, we'll explore stylish furniture, cozy corners, privacy screens, mood lighting, trending container ideas, and the best seasonal plants to help you create a fabulous fall garden right here in the Quad Cities. Let's get started!

 

Best Plants for a Fall Garden

To create a garden that shines this autumn, plant a few of these classic cool-weather beauties:

• Asters, with their daisy-like flowers, bloom in late summer and continue into fall, providing a bright splash of color in purple,white or pink. 
• Sedum, particularly the 'Autumn Joy' variety, offers stunning pinkish-red blooms that gradually deepen as the season progresses. 
• Ornamental cabbages are as beautiful as they are hardy, with their rosette-shaped leaves adding texture and interest to your garden beds.
• Fall mums are another popular fall plant that come in a variety of vibrant colors, like yellow, orange, red, and purple, making them perfect for adding bold, seasonal colors to your garden.

Fall-Themed Containers

Container gardening is another fantastic way to add a splash of seasonal color to your garden. When choosing plants for your fall containers, experiment with different color and texture combinations. For instance, use a mix of ornamental grasses, chrysanthemums, and pansies to create a vibrant display, or combine dusty miller with white asters and purple kale for a more subdued color palette. For a fun, playful touch, add a few mini pumpkins and other gourds to your displays! These combinations thrive in containers and complement your outdoor fall decor perfectly.

Planting and Care Tips

When planting for fall, make sure to give your plants enough time to establish roots before the first frost, especially if you're planting perennials like sedum and asters. Water deeply but less frequently to encourage root growth, and add a layer of mulch to retain moisture and protect the plants as the weather cools. Remember, fall gardening in Bettendorf has its unique challenges, so be mindful of our local climate and pick your plants accordingly.

 

Designing Inviting Outdoor Nooks for Autumn Evenings

As the days shorten, creating cozy corners in your garden extends your enjoyment of your outdoor spaces well into the evening. Whether you're planning a quiet night by the fire or a lively gathering with friends, these ideas will help you design the perfect autumn retreat.

Trendy Fall Furniture

Fall is the perfect time to update your outdoor furniture, embracing the season with pieces that blend comfort, durability, and style. As the weather cools, creating a cozy outdoor space becomes essential for enjoying those brisk autumn mornings and evenings. Fall is the perfect time to try out a new gas fire table and comfy adirondack chairs. 

Durable and Weather-Resistant Materials

When selecting furniture for your fall garden, prioritize materials that can withstand the elements. Recycled poly, teak, and aluminum are excellent choices, as they resist wear while also bringing a timeless appeal to your space. Wicker furniture, in particular, offers a rustic charm that pairs beautifully with Bettendorf's natural fall aesthetic.

Cozy Additions

Add warmth and comfort to your seating areas with outdoor cushions and blankets. Opt for rich, earthy tones like deep reds, burnt oranges, and browns and warm textures like faux furs and chunky knits to echo the colors and coziness of fall.

 

Outdoor Fireplaces and Seating Areas

An outdoor fireplace, fire pit, or fire table can be the focal point of your fall garden. Not only does it provide warmth, but it also creates a gathering spot for chilly evenings. Surround your fireplace with comfortable seating—think cushioned chairs or even a plush outdoor sofa. Add a few throws and pillows to enhance the coziness and invite guests to relax and unwind.

String Lights and Lanterns

An outdoor fireplace, fire pit, or fire table can quickly become the focal point of your fall garden. Not only does it provide warmth, but it also creates a gathering spot for chilly evenings. Surround your fireplace with comfortable seating, like cushioned chairs or a plush outdoor sofa, and add a few throws and pillows to enhance the coziness and invite guests to relax and unwind.

Creative Screening Solutions

Privacy screens are a practical addition to any garden, offering seclusion and a sense of intimacy while also enhancing the style and aesthetic of your outdoor space. Wooden lattice panels, bamboo screens, and trellises adorned with climbing plants are all excellent choices for creating privacy while adding a touch of elegance to your garden. For a modern twist, opt for metal screens with intricate cut-out designs to provide both privacy and striking focal points, casting interesting shadows as the sun moves across the sky.

If you're feeling crafty, try creating your own privacy screens using repurposed materials. With a bit of creativity, you can quickly transform old shutters, barn doors, or even vintage windows into unique, eye-catching screens!

Creating a fabulous fall garden is all about embracing the season's natural beauty while adding your own personal touch. From stylish furniture to fall-friendly plants, every element plays a role in transforming your backyard into a warm and inviting retreat. For more help along your journey, drop by Wallace's Garden Center to stock up on fall plants, gardening supplies, seasonal home and garden decor, and more expert fall garden ideas!