5 Expert Tips to Transition Your Patio Garden from Summer to Fall

Seasons change, and so can your garden. Just because summer is ending doesn’t mean your garden has to wind down. In fact, fall is one of the best times to refresh your patio garden. Cooler weather, hearty seasonal plants, and a little strategic care can set your garden up for success all season long. With guidance from our Grow Pro team here are five ways to seamlessly move your patio garden from summer to fall.

1. Refresh Your Soil
After a season of growth, your soil needs nourishment — especially if you’re swapping out summer favorites for fall crops. If you’re changing out tomatoes and cucumbers for leafy greens, broccoli, or other cool-weather plants while your herbs are still thriving, here’s what to do:

• Carefully remove your summer plants, being mindful not to disturb the roots of the remaining herbs.
  
• Gently till up the soil and add a boost of Soil Serum to revive and nourish the foundation.
  
• Plant your new seasonal favorites right alongside your herbs.
  

Not sure what plants pair best with your existing herbs? Reach out to Grow Pro, and they’ll match you to the perfect choices through Gardenuity Match. Remember, it’s all about keeping the soil nourished for a successful new season of growth.

If you’re starting fresh with all new plants, we recommend this simple refresh: remove all existing soil from your grow bag, place it on a tarp, and mix in a blend of banana peel soup, crushed eggshells, and Soil Serum. Let it sit for a day, turn it over, and then return it to your grow bag — perfectly primed for a new season of growing.

2. Plant Cool-Weather Favorites
Leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, spinach, and lettuces thrive in cooler temperatures. Herbs such as parsley, mint, and sage are also fall standouts.

3. Prune and Declutter
Cut back summer plants that are fading and remove debris. This creates airflow, reduces pests, and makes space for new growth.

4. Consider Companion Planting
Pair herbs and veggies that support each other. For example, plant kale with herbs like sage to help deter pests while boosting flavor in your kitchen.

5. Embrace the Season

The cooler days of fall will beckon you back outside to enjoy your patio again. It’s the perfect time to add a little edible color to your garden. Think fall marigolds (beautiful and pollinator-friendly), ornamental peppers for a splash of bold color, or even a mini pumpkin nestled in your grow bag for a touch of seasonal charm. These small additions don’t just make your garden festive — they create a welcoming space you’ll want to step into every day.

Entertaining with a Fall Patio Garden

Your fall patio garden isn’t just for you — it’s a natural backdrop for entertaining. Here are a few ways to bring it into your gatherings:

• Herb Harvest Bar: Place scissors and a few jars at your patio table so guests can snip herbs (like mint or sage) for cocktails and teas.
  
• Seasonal Centerpiece: Fill a basket with your garden’s kale, Swiss chard, or marigolds and place it in the middle of your outdoor table.
  
• Mini Garden Gifts: Pot up small cuttings of herbs in starter containers and send them home with guests as a seasonal favor.

Gardenuity’s Favorite Fall Gardens

The entire Gardenuity team agrees: fall is one of the most fun seasons to grow. If you’re wondering where to start, here are our three go-to fall gardens:

• The Salad Garden → Packed with leafy greens like kale, lettuce, and Swiss chard, it’s the garden that keeps dinner light, fresh, and harvest-ready.
  
• The Tea Garden → Seasonal herbs like mint, lemon balm, and sage make the perfect cozy cup of tea for chilly mornings or calming evenings.
  
• The Pizza Garden → Because football feels like fall just like pizza does. Fresh basil, oregano, and peppers take your homemade pizza night to the next level.

With just a few thoughtful changes, your patio garden can keep thriving long past summer. Fall gardening is about abundance, resilience, and joy — and it’s the perfect reminder that growth doesn’t stop when the season changes.

A garden in transition mirrors life in transition — and both are worth celebrating.