Fall in New Orleans may not bring piles of crunchy leaves or chilly sweater weather, but it’s still one of the best times of year to give your home’s curb appeal a little extra love. The humidity finally eases up, the days cool down just enough to enjoy being outside, and your yard gets a break from the summer heat.
Whether you’re planning to sell your home soon or want to enjoy a more welcoming space, fall is the perfect season for some simple DIY landscaping projects. You don’t need a big budget or a green thumb to make your yard stand out. A few minor updates can completely transform the look and feel of your home.
Here are some easy and affordable ways to make your home pop this fall.
Refresh Your Flower Beds
Your flower beds are the first thing people notice when they pull up to your home, so they’re a great place to start. Begin by pulling weeds, trimming back overgrown plants, and adding a fresh layer of mulch. It instantly gives your yard a clean, polished look.
Once everything’s tidy, bring in some fall color. You can find seasonal blooms like mums, marigolds, and ornamental kale at most local garden centers this time of year. They thrive in cooler weather and add a burst of gold, orange, and purple to your landscape.
If you prefer something low-maintenance, mix in greenery like ferns, boxwoods, or ornamental grasses. They hold up well year-round and pair beautifully with seasonal flowers.
Add a Pop of Color at the Front Door
The front door sets the tone for your whole home, and fall is a great excuse to make it stand out. A fresh coat of paint in a bold, welcoming color can completely change your home’s appearance. Try shades like navy, deep red, or hunter green for a classic fall look that still works year-round.
Add a few potted plants or small pumpkins on each side of the door to create symmetry and charm. Hanging a simple wreath made from eucalyptus, pinecones, or dried flowers ties everything together beautifully.
If you already have good curb appeal, a few small seasonal touches can make your entryway feel even warmer without overdoing it.
Plant for Instant Impact
Fall is one of the best times to plant in southern Louisiana because the soil is still warm, but the air is cooler. This gives new plants time to establish strong roots before next summer’s heat returns.
If you want to make a big impact fast, focus on high-visibility areas like the walkway, mailbox, or front corners of your home. Add a mix of colorful flowers and lush greenery for balance.
Some of the best fall picks for our region include mums, marigolds, snapdragons, petunias, and ornamental kale, all of which thrive in our mild weather. If you prefer low-maintenance greenery, try dusty miller, coleus, or crotons for rich texture and tropical color.
These plants are easy to find at local nurseries and will keep your landscape looking fresh and full well into the cooler months.
Create a Cozy Outdoor Space
Cooler weather means it’s finally pleasant to sit outside again. Turn your backyard or patio into a cozy retreat with just a few simple touches.
Start by sweeping and cleaning outdoor surfaces, then add a few comfy chairs or a small seating area. Layer in throw blankets, pillows, and warm lighting to create that “sit-and-stay-awhile” feeling. String lights or lanterns can transform even the simplest patio into a space you’ll love spending time in.
If you have a fire pit, now’s the perfect time to bring it back to life. Gather a few friends, roast marshmallows, and enjoy the crisp fall evenings we wait all summer for.
Tidy Up the Lawn
A neat lawn can make or break your home’s curb appeal. Even if you don’t have time for a major overhaul, a little maintenance goes a long way. Mow regularly, edge along sidewalks and driveways, and pick up fallen branches or leaves.
Consider overseeding your grass in early fall if your yard has thin patches. The mild weather helps new grass grow quickly, and it will look lush and healthy well into winter.
And don’t forget the power of a clean driveway and walkway. A quick pressure wash can brighten concrete and remove months of dirt and mildew. It’s one of the easiest ways to instantly improve your home’s appearance.
Light It Up
As the days get shorter, outdoor lighting becomes even more important. Good lighting not only makes your home look beautiful after dark but also improves safety.
Pathway lights, spotlights on trees, or soft uplighting near your home’s entrance can make a big difference. Solar-powered options are easy to install and don’t require wiring, making them perfect for quick weekend projects.
For a fun seasonal touch, you can even swap in warm amber or soft white bulbs to give your yard a cozy glow during the fall months.
Think Beyond the Front Yard
When it comes to curb appeal, the front yard often gets all the attention, but don’t forget about the sides and the backyard. Even small updates like trimming hedges, adding a few potted plants, or hanging string lights around your fence can make the whole property feel more inviting.
If you plan to entertain this fall, consider setting up an outdoor dining area or a fire pit where friends and family can gather. A few decorative lanterns and a basket of blankets create that perfect fall atmosphere we all love.
Fall landscaping doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A few thoughtful updates can give your home fresh energy and charm that lasts well past the season. Whether you’re preparing to sell or want to enjoy your space more, now is the perfect time to roll up your sleeves and make it happen.
At Team Lirette, we love helping homeowners showcase their properties in the best possible light, inside and out. If you’re thinking about listing your home this fall or just want advice on what updates will bring the most value, we’re here to help.
Reach out anytime, and let’s make your home stand out this season.