Have you noticed the leaves are beginning to fall from the trees and the nurseries now have fall themed planters in stock?
Late summer is a time of transition, and in my opinion, some of the best and most inexpensive times to decorate your home using what nature provides.
As we enter into this transitional season of late summer, here are my Top 5 decor ideas that transition effortlessly into Fall, without breaking the bank!
1. Sunflowers - The perfect blend of Summer & Fall
The yellows, browns and greens create a beautiful late summer palette with a nod to Fall. You can find sunflowers just about everywhere! Grocery stores, farmers markets and u-pick sunflower fields. I recommend, if possible, venturing out to a sunflower field and cutting your own stems. Not only will you have the freshest flowers, but it’s also an excellent time to get some family photographs. Your blooms will last longer if you cut first thing in the morning or later in the evening. This is because the stems are filled with water and the air is cooler. If you're out there in the evening, try to time it with the golden hour. This is nature’s perfect lighting!!
2. Corn Husks- Now if you live in the country, you may be able to find pieces of dried up husks on the side of the road.
Or if you know a farmer, ask if you can have some husks and you’ll probably see several rolling around on the property as you take a walk around the farm. However, if you're in the city, pick up some sweet corn in the husk and save the shucks. You’ll need to set them out in the hot sun to dry out. If those options don’t work and you want the “easy” way….head on over to the grocery store and buy a bag of corn husks for tamales! You’ll have to soak them, tear into strips, and then let them dry in the sun. I love to make corn husks wreaths this way! It’s the perfect neutral for this time of year. I will be sharing a video tutorial soon on how to make a corn husk wreath for your door. Stay tuned!
3. Ditch flowers - These roadside flowers make lovely natural bouquets!
These flowers sound just like what they are, but the best part is they are free! Pull off the road, grab some clippers and start cutting. Give them a shake to knock off any critters and then wrap them in a drop cloth or newspapers. Dried up wild flowers, echinacea, thistle, bittersweet and wispy grasses are a plenty! You can also find Chicory, Queen Anne’s Lace and Daisies in bloom this time of year. Don’t forget to bring a bucket of water for the freshly cut blooms. Most important to note is to make sure you are not cutting from a protected space, personal residence or commercial property. Some of my favorite perennials to dry and decorate with are artemisia, sweet annie, yarrow and hydrangea. You can make beautiful wreaths and door swags with these flowers, or simply display them in vases.
4. Chartreuse green “horse apples” from the Osage-Orange Tree - Makes a fantastic bowl and planter fillers!
Photo Pinterest
This durable tree was named for the Osage Indians, as they used its dense wood to make bows and weapons. They can be found in over half of the states across the USA and Canada. The tree produces bright green, grapefruit-sized round (inedible) fruit, which fall on the ground. I usually grab a bucket full and set a few of them in my outdoor containers. They look amazing paired with pansies and violas. Pop in a few willowy branches, some dried lotus pods and you have a stunning display that will stop your neighbors in their tracks. While you're at it, tuck a few in the corners to keep spiders away!
5. Grab some fruit - Faux-Real!
Fruit is a wonderful way to bring color into your home decor. Also serves a dual purpose, you can eat it along the way! A fresh fruit fall centerpiece can easily be arranged with your favorite variety of apples and pears. Get a large bowl or container and tuck a few leaves in between the fruit. You could also tuck in springs of dried wheat, pine cones or other fall floral picks. As we move closer into October, change it up and use mini pumpkins, gourds and squashes.
There you have it! Five easy ways to incorporate a bit of Fall into your home decor. I can’t wait to see your displays! Be sure to tag me in your photos @fairy_dust_and_rust
