When fall rolls around, the back porch becomes more than just an outdoor space — it’s a retreat. A spot for morning coffee, golden-hour chats, and cool evenings spent fireside. For @kenziemariehome, we wanted to create that cozy, welcoming atmosphere right outside her door using a mix of Southern Living Plant Collection and Encore Azalea favorites that bring texture, color, and structure year-round.
The design started with evergreens to anchor the space, then layered in plants that provide soft movement, warm hues, and seasonal interest. Here’s how we pulled it together:
1. Evergreen Structure with Fire Chief™ Arborvitae and Leyland Cypress
We started by framing the space with Fire Chief™ Arborvitae — a standout choice for its fiery red-orange foliage that deepens with the cool weather. Its compact, rounded shape brings a sculpted look without feeling formal. Behind it, a row of Leyland Cypress adds height and privacy, instantly giving the porch a sense of enclosure and intimacy.
2. Texture and Warmth with Dragon Prince™ Cryptomeria
To soften the evergreen backbone, we brought in Dragon Prince™ Cryptomeria. Its low, mounded habit and light-green foliage create movement and texture that catch the light beautifully, a subtle but essential layer that makes the porch feel lush and inviting.
3. Pops of Color with Encore Azalea and Blush Pink™ Nandina
Nothing says fall in the South like a burst of color. We tucked in Autumn Embers® Encore Azaleas to bring that classic autumn warmth, contrasting perfectly against the greens and golds of the surrounding evergreens. Then, Blush Pink™ Nandina adds a delicate touch, its soft pink foliage echoing the tones of fall mums and pumpkins nearby.
The Result:
A cozy, colorful porch that feels alive all year long. The mix of shapes, textures, and tones gives depth to the space, while the evergreens ensure it stays beautiful even after the blooms fade.
Whether you’re decorating for fall or simply craving a more inviting backyard space, this combination of plants offers easy elegance, proving that with the right foundation, your porch can stay picture-perfect through every season.