The Best Time of Year to Start an Outdoor Project (And Why It Matters)

If you’ve been dreaming about a new patio, outdoor kitchen, or complete yard transformation, you’re probably wondering—when’s the best time to start?

Timing can make a huge difference in cost, project timeline, and even the health of your landscaping. At Salas Outdoors, we help clients plan and execute outdoor projects all year long—but there are clear advantages depending on the season.

Here’s what every homeowner should know before booking an outdoor living upgrade.

Spring: The Popular Season for Outdoor Projects

Spring is when most people think about their yards. The weather warms up, the grass starts growing, and inspiration hits.

Pros:

• Ideal for planting grass, trees, and flowers
• Comfortable working conditions
• Perfect time for design consultations and installations

Cons:

• High demand = longer wait times
• Rain can delay projects
• Hard to schedule last-minute installs

✅ Tip: Book early! By the time spring arrives, our team is already filling slots fast. Planning in late winter ensures you beat the rush.

Summer: Great for Hardscaping and Structures

Summer is prime time for building. With longer days and dry weather, it’s ideal for installing patios, fire pits, pergolas, and outdoor kitchens.

Pros:

• Reliable dry weather for construction
• Easier scheduling if spring fills up
• Great time to prep for fall entertaining

Cons:

• Hot temps can impact planting
• Mid-summer can be too hot for some materials
• Irrigation systems may need adjustment

✅ Tip: Focus on hardscape installation in summer and wait to plant until early fall if needed.

Fall: Perfect for Planting and Finishing Touches

Fall is often overlooked—but it’s actually a fantastic time for landscaping. Cooler temps mean less stress on new plants, and the soil is still warm from summer.

Pros:

• Ideal for sod, trees, and shrubs
• Less competition for scheduling
• Plant roots establish before winter

Cons:

• Limited time before winter freezes
• Daylight hours begin to shorten
• May need to delay larger structural installs

✅ Tip: Use fall to finish up projects, plant your final greenery, and prep your yard for spring success.

Winter: Smart Time for Planning and Pre-Booking

While winter isn’t ideal for planting, it’s the best season to plan, design, and schedule your next big outdoor project.

Pros:

• Easier to secure premium dates for spring
• Lower demand may reduce pricing
• Great time to design your space without the rush

Cons:

• Frozen ground limits digging and planting
• Some projects may be weather-delayed
• Visualizing design can be harder with dormant lawns

✅ Tip: Book your consultations in winter to beat the spring demand and start strong when the season changes.

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