The end of summer always seems to come just a little too soon. But with some planning and preparation, you can continue to enjoy the outdoors long after the air has turned crisp. Make this autumn the best ever with these easy tips to get your outdoor area season-ready with a quick refresh and a few enhancements to what you already own.

Take time to perform one last round of yard maintenance to prune back excess growth that took place over summer. Pay special attention to tree limbs or large shrubs that could eventually break under the weight of snow or wind storms.

In addition to weekly mowing, now is the time to begin mulching or storing delicate bulbs away for next year. While you're at it, pick up a few bright plants with autumn colors in pots or to place around borders to enhance the yard or entrance.

Don’t wait until the middle of winter to donate this year’s toys, yard tools or other outgrown items; instead, pack them up early to clear space while performing annual maintenance around the home. A power-washer makes quick work of cleaning the exterior of your house including windows, awnings, storm shutters and other areas that tend to accumulate dirt or grime over the summer.

In addition to weatherizing the inside of your home, it is a good idea to perform a few routine tasks to prepare your yard and the outside of your home for winter. Carefully inspect caulking, windows and shutters to make sure they are fully functional and in good repair; wrap or insulate exposed pipes and examine roofing, walkways and other areas prone to damage from ice or snow.

A pool, hot tub or pond will require special attention. If you own one of these, decide if you will continue to use it throughout winter; if not, drain or winterize in accordance to local recommendations. For those who travel during winter, be sure to cover your pool or hot tub before you leave for a trip. Proper cleaning and inspection of equipment, including heaters and electrical systems, should also be performed.

Who says summer is the only time you can entertain outdoors? Autumn is a wonderful season to enjoy a brisk afternoon barbecue or spend time with friends and family sharing stories around a new fire pit. Spruce up a special little space in your backyard by adding outdoor lighting and comfortable seating around the warmth of a fire for a relaxed afternoon or evening of entertaining.

Pets need special protection from the elements. Plan ahead by providing appropriate clothing for walks and potty breaks, reflective collars and vests (remember, less daylight means less visibility) and a dog house or exercise area so they can enjoy a little time outside during nice weather. Stocking up on a few new toys can also help break the boredom of long days spent inside during bad weather.

From the seasonal migration of birds to the chatter of chipmunks, delight children and guests by positioning a few well-placed heated bird-baths and feeders in strategic areas. Include a pair of binoculars next to your favorite chair to bring the outdoors inside and enjoy wildlife any time of the year.

This year, make a point of putting in a small family garden so you can reap your own fall harvest. Giant pumpkins are sure to be a hit with children of all ages while squash and other fresh vegetables are as budget-friendly as they are beautiful. It’s a great way to save money while spending quality time with the family.

Nothing is more fun and inviting than decorating your home for the holidays. Fortunately, it is easy and inexpensive to plan for parties or just playtime with something special to greet visitors. Teach children about different cultures and customs by planning a few activities or foods to complete the experience. It doesn’t have to cost a lot to string up a few brightly colored lights and create a warm welcome for any of these seasonal sensations:
 

• Fall/Autumn
• Halloween
• Thanksgiving
• Christmas
• Rosh Hashanah
• Veterans Day
• Ramadan
• Hanukkah
• Kwanzaa