September may feel a little early to start thinking about next year’s landscape projects, but it’s actually one of the best times to plan.

Why? Because you’re still using your outdoor spaces.

Before colder weather sends everyone indoors, pay attention to what worked this summer—and what didn’t. Take photos of problem areas. Make notes about places that felt too sunny, too exposed, too cramped, or simply underused. Think about where your family naturally gathers and what would make spending time outside easier or more enjoyable.

And don’t forget to look at the plants! September gives you a chance to see your garden near the end of a full growing season. Notice which plants brought you joy, where you wished you had more color or blooms, and which shrubs or perennials may have outgrown their space. A plant that looked tiny in May may be telling a very different story by September.

Planning a patio or entertaining space? Try arranging your existing outdoor furniture—or even folding chairs—on the lawn. Set it up for the number of people you typically entertain, then measure the space. A patio that sounds enormous on paper may feel completely different once you account for a dining table, chairs pulled out from the table, a grill, and room for people to comfortably move around.

September is also a good time to begin thinking about larger projects for 2027: patios, walkways, decks, pools, pergolas, fences, new garden areas, or other outdoor improvements.

If professional help will be part of the process, start those conversations this fall. Meet with a few landscape professionals, look through their past work, and ask about their specialties and process. Good contractors often begin filling future schedules well in advance, and weather can always shift an anticipated spring project later than expected.

You don’t need to have every detail—or even your budget—figured out yet. Start by documenting how you use your property, what you love about your garden, and what you’d like to improve.

The goal isn’t to rush into a project. It’s to use what you’ve learned from this summer to create more beauty, connection, and joy outdoors next year.