Keep Your Landscape Colorful: Fall Bloomers to Brighten Your Garden

Just because summer is ending does not mean that it has to be the end of color in your home landscape.  Several herbaceous annuals and perennials come into their full glory in the fall.  The old faithfuls for fall color are chrysanthemums (mums) and pansies. These colorful plants provide instant beautification. Mums are usually handled as annuals and are removed in the spring because many do not get established enough to survive the winter. Pansies, when planted in the fall, will become established and survive the winter to bloom again in early spring. Pansies are normally removed when they begin to decline in the early summer heat.

Why Do Some Plants Bloom in the Fall?

What makes some plants wait until fall to bloom? It has to do with their “photoperiod”. Known as “short-day” plants, a fall-flowering plant’s bud formation is triggered by the gradual shortening of daylight after the first day of summer.

Top Fall-Flowering Plants to Consider

In addition to mums and pansies, some other plants that provide great fall color include the following:

Asters

Asters are daisy-like perennials that bring vibrant splashes of purple, blue, pink, and white to your garden. They bloom prolifically during the autumn months and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Goldenrod

Goldenrod showcases tall spikes of yellow flowers that add a golden touch to your fall landscape. Despite misconceptions, goldenrod is not a significant cause of allergies and adds beauty and texture to your garden.

Japanese Anemones

These enchanting plants produce delicate, saucer-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, and lavender. Japanese anemones thrive in partial shade and can provide blooms from late summer through to fall.

Sedum (Autumn Joy)

Sedum, particularly varieties like 'Autumn Joy', offers fleshy, succulent foliage topped with clusters of pink, red, or copper flowers. As a hardy perennial, Sedum adds year-round interest with its changing appearance through the seasons.

Helenium

Helenium, also known as sneezeweed, produces daisy-like flowers in warm shades of yellow, orange, and red. These perennials dazzle with their vibrant hues and are perfect for adding a fiery touch to your autumn garden.

Tips for Planting Fall Bloomers

To ensure that your fall bloomers thrive and continue to bring color to your landscape, consider these planting tips:

1.  Choose the Right Location

Most fall-flowering plants prefer locations with full sun to partial shade. Ensure the planting site has well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging, which can harm the plants.

2.  Plant in Groups

For the most impactful visual display, plant fall bloomers in groups or clusters. Grouping similar plants together will provide a stunning burst of color and enhance the garden’s overall aesthetic.

3.  Provide Adequate Water

While established perennials may tolerate some drought, newly planted fall bloomers will need regular watering to help them establish a strong root system. Be mindful of watering needs as the weather cools.

4.  Mulch to Protect

Applying a layer of mulch around your plants can help moderate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds. This is especially important for newly planted specimens to ensure they establish well before winter.

Fall is a fantastic time to enhance your garden with vibrant colors and beautiful blooms. By incorporating these fall-flowering plants, you can extend the beauty of your landscape well after summer has ended. So, embrace the season and enjoy the glorious spectrum of autumn hues right in your own backyard!

My Final Thoughts!

The sights and scents of autumn are more than just pleasant—they evoke warmth, comfort, and a welcoming autumn atmosphere.  Whether you’re trying to impress Buyers, hosting a dinner party, or simply want to elevate your outdoor space for the season, this is a surefire way to make your home look festive, cozy and inviting.  Try out your green thumb, and I guarantee you’ll be hooked on this simple, affordable way to bring the best of fall to your yard. And if you love this idea as much as I do, feel free to share it with friends and family—or better yet, send them my way if they’re looking to make a move this season!

Source:  University of Maryland Extension

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Dan McDevitt
Cummings & Company Realtors
Team Leader, Realvolution Homes Group