In the garden, autumn is the most beautiful time of the year, with bright colors, cool temperatures and abundant crops. Fall is a great time to add new plants to the garden that will thrive during the colder weather and shorter days of summer. In this guide, we look at some of the best fall plants that will delight your senses and make your garden look beautiful.
1. Mums (Chrysanthemums)
Chrysanthemums are a classic fall plant prized for their bright colors and lush blooms. Mums instantly bring color and joy to any garden bed or planter. They come in a variety of shades, from fiery red and orange to rich yellow and purple. For best results, plant them in full sun or light shade and keep the soil regularly moist. Mums are also great for enhancing the beauty of their garden with cut flower arrangements.
2. Ornamental Grasses
Fall gardens will benefit greatly from the beautiful foliage and architectural shapes of ornamental grasses, which are highly prized. Available in a range of colors and textures, from delicate green to rich brown and gold, there are varieties such as fountain grass (Pennisetum), switchgrass (Panicum) and maiden grass (Miscanthus). Plant ornamental grasses in well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade and enjoy their low-maintenance appeal and beauty all year long.
3. Asters
Because of their late-season color and daisy-like blooms, asters are a popular fall flower. These hardy perennials are available in different colors and sizes, with shades of purple, pink, blue and white. Plant asters in well-drained soil and place them in full sun or light shade. They make great border plants and bring life and vitality to the autumn garden by attracting pollinators such as butterflies and bees.
4. Pansies and Violas
Cool-season annuals, such as pansies and violas, do well in cool fall weather. These beautiful flowers are available in a variety of colors, including purple, yellow, orange and white. They are known for their cheerful faces and bright colors. Plant violas and pansies in a shady, well-drained garden bed, hanging basket or container. They bloom non-stop until the first frost, adding a pop of color to your fall leaves.
5. Ornamental Kale and Cabbage
Edible kale and cabbage are adaptable plants that can add visual interest and texture to your fall garden. These ornamental plants are sure to stand out with their lacy foliage and striking hues, from vibrant pinks and whites to rich purples and blues. Plant them in full or partial shade and provide well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Edible ornamental cabbage and kale add color and health to fall salads and recipes.
6. Japanese Maples
Japanese maples are highly prized for their delicate leaves and graceful shape, which set them apart from other plants in the fall landscape. With their delicate foliage and dazzling shades of red, orange and gold, these small trees add a touch of drama and sophistication to any environment. Plant your Japanese maple in moist, well-drained soil and place the plant in partial shade. They are perfect as an accent or focal point in Japanese-themed garden beds, containers and landscapes.
7. Sedums
Sedum crops, or sedums, are perennial plants that can withstand desiccation and thrive in dry fall weather. Sedum adds texture and appearance to garden beds, rock gardens and containers with its succulent leaves and star-shaped flowers. Certain varieties, including ‘Autumn Joy’ and ‘Matrona’, are especially popular for their beautiful foliage and late-season flowers. Plant sedums in well-drained soil and full sun, and enjoy their low-maintenance beauty all fall.
8. Fall-blooming Crocus
Summer is coming to an end and the autumn flowering crocuses bring a beautiful surprise to the autumn garden with their delicate flowers. These compact but powerful lamps provide beautiful colors to forest environments, rock gardens and garden edges. They are available in purple, lilac, white and yellow. Fall flowering crocuses should be planted in well-drained soil and given partial to full sun. They quickly established themselves and flourished, putting on a breathtaking spectacle every year.
9. Helenium (Sneezeweed)
Sunflower or sunflower is a natural perennial with abundant flowering in late summer and autumn. Gardeners and pollinators alike love helium grass for its daisy-like flowers in orange, red and yellow colors. Give them moist, well-drained soil and plant them in full sun or partial shade. Heleniums make beautiful cut flowers for fall bouquets and floral arrangements, and they are a great way to add height and color to cottage gardens and garden borders.
10. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a special shrub that blooms in late fall and early January, adding color and fragrance to the fall garden after most other plants have bloomed. Witch hazel is a useful addition to woodland gardens and natural environments and is known for its spider-like flowers in shades of yellow, orange and red. Plant witch hazel in moist, well-drained soil and place it in partial shade. Enjoy the colorful foliage and fragrant flowers as a great way to end fall.
Conclusion
Adding beauty, color and appeal to your outdoor space, these best fall plants will keep it a vibrant and welcoming retreat all fall. Try arranging them in different ways to create a stunning autumn scene that will satisfy the senses and uplift the spirit.
FAQs
1. What are the benefits of gardening in the fall?
By planting in the fall, you can extend the growing season and continue to enjoy fresh vegetables into the fall. It also provides the opportunity to prepare the garden for the coming spring and add color and interest with autumn blooming leaves and flowers.
2. Which plants are most popular in the autumn garden?
Chrysanthemums, asters, pansies, decorative kale and cabbage, Japanese maples, sedums, fall blooming crocuses, witch hazel and witch hazel are common plants for fall gardens. These plants that thrive in cold climates make fall landscapes more interesting and beautiful.
3. When should I start organizing and planting my fall garden?
Depending on the plants you want to grow and your temperature zone, you can start designing and planting your fall garden in late summer or early fall. Choose plants for fall planting carefully, taking into account typical first frost dates in your area.
4. How do you prevent frost in your autumn garden?
When frost is expected, cover vulnerable plants in your fall garden with blankets, cloches or row covers to protect them from the cold. To protect plant roots from freezing temperatures and insulate the soil, you can also use mulch and hardy plant varieties.
5. What are some tips for maintaining a fall garden?
Watering plants regularly, removing weeds and debris, removing wasted flowers and watching for pests and diseases are some suggestions for fall garden maintenance. Providing adequate nutrition and protection from harsh weather conditions are also critical.
