Brighten Your Fall with Stunning Container Plants

Fall is here, and it's the perfect time to refresh your containers with vibrant fall-blooming plants. No matter your level of expertise, transforming your outdoor space with the right mix of plants can keep it looking beautiful even as temperatures drop. Here are some top plant options to consider for your fall containers, along with essential care tips to ensure they thrive.

Top Plant Options for Fall Containers

Ornamental Kale

Ornamental kale adds a bold touch with its ruffled leaves and rich colors ranging from deep purples to creamy whites. It's highly cold-resistant and provides a striking contrast to other fall plants.

Pansies

Pansies are a fall favorite, known for their cheerful, colorful blooms. They come in a variety of shades and can withstand the cooler temperatures of fall. Their compact size makes them perfect for container planting.

Heuchera (Coral Bells)

Heuchera offers beautiful foliage in an array of colors like burgundy, bronze, and green. This perennial plant is durable and adds texture and depth to your container garden. Instead of tossing them at the end of fall, stick these perennials in your garden and watch them rebloom the following year!

Mums (Chrysanthemums)

Ole’ reliable! Chrysanthemums, or mums, are classic fall bloomers. They provide bursts of color with their dense, daisy-like flowers and are available in numerous shades such as yellow, orange, and red. My suggestion? Plant the perennial variety (NOT the annual variety for sale at the grocery store) for repeat appearances in your garden.

Coleus

The vibrant, patterned foliage of coleus mimics a stained glass window. They thrive in the fall's mild temperatures and can add a pop of color to your containers. Look for varieties with autumnal hues like deep red and gold.

Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susans)

Rudbeckia features bright yellow flowers with dark centers that can light up any fall container. They're hardy and can tolerate the cooler fall weather, making them an excellent choice for adding height and drama.

Creeping Jenny

Creeping Jenny is a versatile ground cover with trailing foliage that spills gracefully over the edges of containers. Its golden leaves add a warm glow to your fall arrangement.

Asters

Asters bring a splash of late-season color with their star-shaped flowers. Ranging in colors from pink to purple, they are perfect for attracting pollinators like butterflies to your garden.

Essential Care Tips for Fall Plants

Ensure Good Drainage

• Fall and winter can bring heavy rains, making it crucial to have containers with good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

• Use pots with drainage holes and add a layer of gravel at the bottom to facilitate proper water flow.
  
  Water as Needed:

• Regularly check the soil moisture to determine watering needs. The soil should be moist but not soggy.

• During rainy periods, reduce watering to avoid root rot.
  
  Protect from Early Frosts:

• Early frosts can damage tender plants. Move containers to a sheltered area or use frost covers overnight to protect your plants.

• Keep an eye on weather forecasts to anticipate frost warnings.
  
  Prune Faded Blooms:

• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new growth and prolong the blooming period.

• Regular pruning also helps maintain the overall appearance and health of the plants.

Conclusion

Creating a fall container garden is a rewarding way to extend the beauty of your outdoor space into the cooler months. By choosing the right mix of plants you can enjoy a vibrant and colorful display throughout the season. Remember to follow our care tips to keep your fall plants healthy and thriving.