7 Trends for Late Summer Landscaping in the Midwest

September is the late summer season for landscaping in the Midwest, and it’s the perfect time to spruce up your yard with season-appropriate plants and fall landscaping decorations. As the vibrant colors of spring and early summer fade, the challenge of late summer landscaping in the Midwest arises: breathing new life into your outdoor spaces. With leaves turning fiery red everywhere, breaking the monotony in your outdoor space is crucial to infuse new life into your garden. This blog will explore the top trends in Minnesota landscaping for late summer, but feel free to apply them to your Midwest landscape as well!

Native Plants – Beauty Rooted in Local Flora

Late summer is the perfect time to celebrate Minnesota’s rich biodiversity by incorporating native plants into your landscape. Native species are well-adapted to the local climate, requiring less water and maintenance while providing essential habitats for local wildlife. Consider adding stunning prairie grasses like Big Bluestem and Switchgrass or charming wildflowers like Purple Coneflower and Black-eyed Susan. Not only will your garden be a sight to behold, but you’ll also contribute to preserving the region’s natural heritage.

Sustainable Water Features – Serenity Meets Eco-Consciousness

The late summer heat often calls for refreshing water features in your garden, but it’s all about sustainability this year. Opt for eco-conscious water features like rain gardens, which collect and store rainwater to nourish your plants during dry spells. Additionally, consider installing a recirculating fountain or a small pond with aquatic plants that provide a haven for local wildlife.

Warm-Toned Foliage – A Preview of Autumn’s Palette

Late summer hints at the upcoming autumn; warm-toned foliage is stealing the show this year. Incorporate plants and shrubs with gold, bronze, and burgundy hues to create a captivating display of colors. Maple trees, with their fiery red leaves, are a popular choice, and ornamental grasses like Japanese Forest Grass and Flame Grass.

Pollinator-Friendly Gardens – Inviting Nature’s Helpers

Pollinators play a crucial role in the ecosystem by providing food sources. Design your garden to attract butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds with a mix of nectar-rich flowers. Flowers with rich pollen are excellent choices that support pollinators while adding beauty to your landscape.

Outdoor Living Spaces – Extending Your Home Outdoors

Late summer evenings are made for relaxing outdoors, and an inviting outdoor living space is necessary to relish in the late summer beauty. Spruce up your patio or deck with cozy seating, soft cushions, and warm lighting to create a comfortable atmosphere. Add a fire pit to extend those outdoor gatherings into the cooler nights, making memories with family and friends under the open sky.

Vertical Gardens – Greening Up Small Spaces

For urban dwellers or those with limited yard space, vertical gardens are the latest trend to embrace in late summer. These space-saving gardens can be created on walls, fences, or trellises, adding a lush and artistic touch to your surroundings. Herbs, succulents, and small flowering plants thrive in these setups, giving you a functional and visually pleasing green haven.

Smart Irrigation – Watering with Precision

Late summer often brings dry spells, making efficient watering systems a top priority. Smart irrigation technology allows you to water your landscape precisely when and where needed, saving water and promoting healthier plants. These innovations make gardening easier and more environmentally friendly.

Enjoy a Vibrant Summer Garden With Landscapes Unlimited

As the late summer sun kisses your landscape, these top trends in Minnesota landscaping offer endless opportunities to transform your outdoor space into a beautiful, eco-conscious haven. Do you need a local landscaper familiar with the trends and with season-appropriate vegetation? Landscapes Unlimited is a trusted landscaping company in Minnesota with years of experience handling various landscapes throughout the Midwest seasons. We are familiar with the region’s seasonal flora and can craft the best design to beautify your garden. Contact us today, and let us transform your outdoor space into an autumn paradise!