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Small Patio Ideas: What’s New and Blooming for Summer!
By Rachel
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Last Updated on July 23, 2026 by Rachel
Join me outside for small patio ideas! Grab an iced beverage and come see what’s new and blooming for summer in my outdoor space.
Summer is in full swing here in the Midwest, meaning patio season is on! Today, I thought it would be fun to show you around my patio and give you a little tour for this season. Many of you have been along for past patio posts, but I’ve added some new things and switched others around since the last time. And, if you have a small patio or outdoor space and are in need of some tips, I’ve got you. Join me below for my best small patio ideas along with what’s new and blooming for summer!
The Short Answer
A small patio can feel fresh and functional for summer with just a few mindful additions and a lot of greenery! Here’s what makes the biggest impact:
- Go up instead of out — a high top table and hanging plants save valuable floor space
- A thrifted wicker chair adds seating and texture without the big price tag
- Pack it full of shade-loving plants like ferns, begonias, and coleus for instant lushness
- Before buying anything new, ask yourself if something you already own can do the same job
Small Patio Ideas on a Budget: Summer Update
My patio is small but mighty! It’s one of my favorite places to hang during the warm months. I love to sit outside in the morning with my coffee and listen to the birds.
I tend to use the same furniture and decor pieces season after season because, well, patio furniture isn’t cheap and, if it isn’t broken, why not use it?! However, feeling a little tired of the same old things and layout for like five years now, I decided to add a few ‘new’ key pieces this summer…some have been thrifted, others have been purchased new.
Along with that, I’ve packed it full with shade plants and more ferns than I’ve ever had before.
So, grab something nice to drink and let’s take a casual stroll around my patio for summer!
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Small Patio Ideas: What’s New and Blooming for Summer!
You guys…it’s SO HOT. Like…we’re roasting and most days I feel like I’m melting! I can’t wait until I can walk out to the mailbox and not sweat!
So, because the heat zaps my energy, today’s post is going to be quite casual. Nothing too detailed or wordy…just a fun stroll through the patio. I hope you enjoy it and maybe get some new ideas to try in your own outdoor space!
What’s New This Season
As I stated, I’ve purchased a few new items for the patio. It started to feel stagnant and dull, so I mindfully purchased these in an attempt to bring some more life to this small space. And, I’m happy to say that they did just that!
The Hammock & Stand
My hammock is AMAZING! It’s been too hot to lay in it recently, but early summer I would lay in it after work and in the evenings…it’s such a relaxing spot to unwind in after a long day. The gentle rocking is immensely stress-relieving!
My sister actually got me the striped hammock for my birthday back in the spring and then I purchased the stand separately.
I honestly didn’t think we were going to get it to fit on the patio but, with some re-jiggering, it fits like a glove! I do like how it’s angled and not straight against the wall. It’s easier to swing at this angle plus adds some dimension to this otherwise bare spot on the patio.
So, if you’ve been thinking about purchasing a hammock for your outdoor space, here’s your sign to absolutely do it! You’ll love it.
High Top Table and Chairs
This is another item purchased new!
You guys…the cheap table set has totally changed how we use our patio. Before, we basically had no where to eat unless we brought TV trays outside and sat on the couch. Now, we can come straight out the patio door with our plates and sit down and eat…what a thing!
On a small patio, going up with furniture instead of out definitely is a space saver move. The high top version allows us to be able to have a proper eating space without taking up valuable floor space.
And, since Tilly likes to lay out in the side yard, I can see her from here no problem!
Green Wicker Chair
I’ve had this for awhile but I don’t think I’ve ever shared it!
Isn’t this the most glorious, cottage-green wicker chair you’ve ever seen!? And guess what…I thrifted it for just $7.99!! Isn’t that amazing?!
It not only gives us another seating option, but the wicker brings in the most glorious texture to this small space! I added the striped cushion and yellow throw pillow, which ties in with the colors on our patio couch.
Placed next to my giant Coleus plant, it’s a cozy little area for sitting and chatting.
What’s Blooming and Growing
As many of you may know, my patio is basically a full shade zone. I’ve only been able to get three types of plants/flowers to grow out here but I’ve accepted that and now just pack my patio full of the plants that thrive!
Ferns
I have the most ferns back here this year than ever, both hanging and potted.
It was a shaky spring due to the cold weather we had through April and I ordered my ferns too early. Because of that, they looked pretty sad when I planted them in mid-May. However, with a lot of care and weekly fertilizer, they have bounced back and are doing well!
Hanging plants, of any kind, are another space saving hack for a small patio. Hanging pots not only look so beautiful, but they also don’t take up real estate on the ground!
Ferns are my go-to hanging plant year after year because they get so leafy and huge as the summer goes on.
Begonias
Begonias are the only type of flower that I can get to grow on my shaded patio. This year, I went with different colors of flowers and LOVE them!
The coral colored Begonia, which is sitting on a dollar store metal stool that I spray painted green, was THRIVING! However, with all the rain we’ve had, combined with the hot temperatures, it’s not doing great at the moment. I’m trying to nurse it back to life so we’ll see. (Side note… look how long the Creeping Jenny is!! Fab!)
A new addition to my plant repertoire this season are two matching hanging Begonias.
I wanted some color to try and mask the ugly rocks, so I went to the plant nursery in search of bright flowers. Since I already knew I could grow Begonias without fail, I grabbed two yellow hanging baskets, and BOY do they ever bring the color I wanted!
The shepherd’s hooks are also new, which I purchased specifically to hang these pots on. I adore the look and will be doing this again next year!
Coleus
Besides ferns, this is the only other type of plant that will grow on my patio. But, that’s totally okay because Coleus comes in so many different colors and patterns of leaves!
Though I usually buy and pot my own, I spotted this stunning potted Coleus at CostCo and had to have it. This plant is living it’s best life out here and is almost taller than the chair now. I ADORE the striped leaves in the front…so pretty!
Small Patio Summer Update: Layout, Furniture, and Favorites
Everything else on the patio-our homemade wooden couch, outdoor rug, and small accessories- have all stayed. The new additions totally work and fit right in with the existing pieces!
One of my favorite patio accessories is the hummingbird feeder. I’ve been feeding my hummer friends now for the past five years and is truly one of my most loved summer pastimes.
The hummers know I make new nectar weekly for them and keep coming back! I just love them so 🙂
I truly love how the patio looks this year. It’s the best layout we’ve ever had, making each area of the small space feel cohesive and balanced.
The best piece of advice I can give when styling, decorating, or laying out a small patio is this: Don’t buy things just to buy. Each thing on your patio needs to serve a purpose or have a specific function, even down to the flower pots. Before you go to the store, ask yourself what you actually need, where/how it’s going to be used, or if there is something else you already own that can do the same job.
Mindful styling and buying is key and less is always more, especially when it comes to a small space!
Closing Tidbits on Small Patio Ideas: What’s New and Blooming for Summer!
With that, this wraps up my summer patio update!
I will say, with the balance of thrifted and new items, combined with all the plants, the patio is a calm and peaceful place to relax at the end of the day. It’s about as serene as it’s ever been and that makes me so happy!
It’s my hope that you’ve gained some tips or ideas that you can try in your own outdoor space. No matter what you see or what others say, it truly doesn’t take much to freshen up a patio, deck, or porch. Everything is out in the elements, so why spend a fortune on things that are eventually going to get dirty and wet?!
Be encouraged to get outside, feel the sunshine on your face, and soak in all the beauty that summer has to offer.
Leave me a comment! What’s growing on your patio or in your garden this season? I’d love to know!
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Common FAQ’s on a Small Patio
How do I make the most of a small patio space?
Focus on multi-purpose pieces and vertical space. A hanging planter stand or lattice lets you add greenery without eating into floor space, and furniture that serves double duty (like a high top table that doubles as a workspace) helps a small area feel bigger than it is.
What furniture works best for a small patio?
Look for pieces that are proportional to your space — a bistro-style or high top table with two chairs takes up less visual room than a bulky dining set, while something like a hammock adds a lounging spot without needing a full second seating area.
What plants do well on a shaded or low-light patio?
Ferns and Coleus are both great options for spaces that don’t get much direct sun. Ferns fill in beautifully whether potted or hanging, and Coleus adds a pop of color even in shadier spots. Both are pretty forgiving if you’re newer to patio gardening.
How do I decorate a small patio on a budget?
Start with a few key pieces you love rather than trying to fill the whole space at once, and watch for sales on planters, furniture, and decor throughout the season. Thrifting or repurposing what you already own is also an easy way to add character without spending much.
Can I fit a hammock on a small patio?
Yes, with the right stand-style hammock (rather than one that requires anchoring into trees or posts), you can tuck it into a corner or along one side of even a compact patio without sacrificing your main seating area.
How do I keep hanging plants and ferns healthy through summer?
Consistent watering is key since hanging planters dry out faster than ground pots, especially in summer heat. Check them every day or two, and give ferns a little extra humidity if your space gets a lot of direct afternoon sun.
Other Posts to Enjoy
Stunning Summer Outdoor Patio Decorating Ideas
Thrifty Fall Porch and Patio Decor with Everyday Items
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2 Comments. Leave new
Your patio looks like the perfect place to sit and watch nature. Here in Oklahoma it’s been hot this July, sometimes 102-104. Can’t enjoy my sceened-in porch, but when it’s cooler I love to sit outside. Have fun and enjoy your beautiful porch.
Hey, Marlene!
Thanks so much! It’s been hot here too…heat indexes in the 110’s, which is CRAZY hot for Minnesota! We’ve had a nice cooler stretch of days which has been so nice..I’ve been able to lay in my hammock in the evenings again. Thanks so much for stopping by today!