Whether you’re a seasoned gardener looking to refresh your autumn palette or a novice eager to explore the world of perennial gardening, knowing where to start is key. Perennial plants can provide a lasting foundation for a beautiful fall garden year after year. These steadfast plants not only endure the changing seasons but also grace our gardens with a wide spectrum of colors. Join us as we discuss the top choices for creating a colorful fall garden that will last throughout the season.
Choosing the Right Perennials
When it comes to creating a vibrant and colorful fall garden, selecting the right perennial plants can make all the difference. Find out what type suits your style best:
Asters: These daisy-like flowers come alive in colors ranging from deep purples and blues to vibrant pinks and whites. They bloom late in the season, extending the garden’s color well into fall. They thrive in full sun to partial shade and are adaptable to various soil types, making them a versatile addition to any garden bed. Asters are suitable for a wide range of climates too.
Popular Types: New England Aster, New York Aster, Smooth Aster, Heath Aster, Tatarian Aster, Blue Wood Aster, and Sky Blue Aster
Sedums: These are prized for their succulent foliage and clusters of star-shaped flowers that emerge in late summer and persist through fall. Their flowers range in color from soft pinks and oranges to deep reds and burgundies, providing a rich color in your autumn garden. They are drought-tolerant once established and prefer well-drained soil in full sun. Also, they are suitable for both colder and more mild climates.
Popular Types: Autumn Joy Sedum, Dragon’s Blood Sedum, Angelina Sedum, Matrona Sedum, Vera Jameson Sedum, Blue Spruce Sedum, and Stonecrop Sedum
Ornamental Grasses: These add texture, movement, and striking fall color to garden landscapes. These grasses often turn shades of golden yellow, bronze, or fiery red as temperatures cool, contrasting nicely with other fall blooms. They are adaptable to various soil types and can thrive in both sun and partial shade, depending on the species. They are a versatile choice when considering fall garden designs.
Popular Types: Japanese Silver Grass, Fountain Grass, Switchgrass, Feather Reed Grass, Blue Oat Grass, Maiden Grass, and Little Bluestem
Chrysanthemums: These are quintessential fall-blooming perennials known for their abundant, colorful blooms in shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple. They come in various forms, from daisy-like single blooms to pom-pom shapes. They add a burst of color to garden beds, containers, and borders. They prefer well-drained soil enriched with organic matter and thrive in full sun. However, depending on the variety, they have different cold tolerance levels.
Popular Types: Shasta Daisy Mum, Garden Mum, Korean Chrysanthemum, Japanese Chrysanthemum, and Rubellum Daisy Mum
Maintenance
To maintain a vibrant and thriving garden throughout the fall season, it’s essential to practice key maintenance techniques. Deadheading, the process of pinching or cutting off the flower stems below the spent flowers and just above the first set of full, healthy leaves, and withered blooms not only enhances a garden’s aesthetic appeal but also encourages plants like roses and dahlias to continue flowering well into autumn. Dividing overcrowded perennials, such as hostas and daylilies, ensures they have ample space to grow and receive necessary nutrients, promoting healthier foliage and more prolific blooms.
As temperatures begin to dip, protecting tender perennials from early frosts becomes crucial. Applying a layer of mulch around plants or using covers can shield them from sudden temperature drops. This will help prolong their beauty and ensure their survival through the changing seasons. These practices not only maintain the garden’s visual charm but also contribute to the overall health and longevity of plants during the fall months.
Need help determining what plants to use around your home? Martin John Company’s team of landscaping designers and horticulture experts can help. Schedule a free consultation with one of our experts today.