As the autumn season approaches, it’s time to refresh your outdoor space and create an eye-catching display that complements the changing colors around you.
Choosing the right flowers for your fall containers can be a delightful way to enjoy the crisp air and vibrant hues that are characteristic of this time of year.
You might be wondering which flowers are best suited for fall containers. No need to worry, we have gathered a list of 10 outstanding options that will brighten up your garden and thrive in the cooler temperatures.
These stunning blooms will not only add a burst of color to your space, but also bring an inviting atmosphere for friends and family to enjoy.
From delicate blossoms to bold statement-makers, the following list showcases a diverse selection of flowers that are perfect for autumn containers.
With these options at your fingertips, you’re sure to find the ideal plants to create a captivating display this season.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are a perfect addition to your fall container gardens. They come in a vast array of colors, ranging from vibrant yellows and oranges to subtle purples and whites, bringing a lively touch to your arrangements.
When considering mums for your fall containers, it’s important to select the right type for your needs. There are two types of chrysanthemums you should consider:
- Florist mums: These mums often produce larger flowers with softer colors, making them an ideal choice for more decorative displays.
- Garden mums: As the name suggests, these mums are more hardy and better suited for outdoor conditions with smaller flowers and brighter colors.
To ensure the best results, follow these simple tips when planting and caring for your mums:
- Choose the right container: A well-draining container with adequate space for root growth is essential, as mums tend to have a dense root system. A pot with a diameter of at least 12 inches should suffice for most varieties. Make sure to provide at least a couple of inches between the outer edge of the container and the plant’s main stem to prevent overcrowding.
- Planting and soil: Plant your mums in a high-quality potting mix to ensure proper drainage and nutrient retention. Avoid the temptation to use garden soil, as it can lead to drainage problems and potential root rot.
- Sunlight and temperature: Chrysanthemums thrive in sunlight, requiring a minimum of six hours of direct sun per day. However, they are also quite tolerant of cooler temperatures, making them an ideal addition to your fall container garden.
- Watering and fertilization: Mums should be watered regularly, with the soil kept consistently moist but not overly wet. Over-watering can lead to root rot and other diseases. Fertilize your mums every two to four weeks with a well-balanced fertilizer to maintain optimal growth and flower production.
- Deadheading and pruning: To encourage continuous blooming and a bushier appearance, remove spent flower heads promptly. Prune back the plant’s overall size after the blooming season to encourage new growth and maintain its shape.
By following these guidelines, your chrysanthemums will add a vibrant touch of color and life to your fall container garden, creating an inviting atmosphere and a beautiful focal point for your outdoor space. Enjoy the process of selecting, planting, and nurturing your mums, and take pleasure in the stunning results that will enhance your autumn arrangements.
Pansies
As you plan your fall container gardens, be sure to include pansies. These charming and versatile flowers with their wide range of colors truly shine in any fall container. Pansies add a burst of color and cheer, helping your garden make a smooth transition from summer to fall.
When you select pansies for your container garden, keep in mind the following key factors:
- Sun exposure: Pansies perform best in partial to full sun. Make sure to place your container in a spot where it receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
- Soil: These flowers prefer well-draining soil, as overly wet conditions can lead to root rot and other problems. Consider using a potting mix designed specifically for container gardens.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. A general rule of thumb is to water your pansies when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Temperature: Pansies are cool-season flowers, so they’ll thrive in the cooler temperatures of fall. However, be prepared to protect them if temperatures drop too low, as they can be sensitive to frost.
When designing your fall container full of pansies, feel free to experiment with different color combinations and flower placements. Pansies come in an array of colors, including:
- Red
- Yellow
- Blue
- Purple
- Orange
- White
- Multicolored
To ensure a healthy display, regularly deadhead your pansies to encourage new blooms. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for common pests like aphids and slugs, which can be controlled with eco-friendly solutions. By following these tips, your pansies will provide vibrant, long-lasting color to your fall container garden.
Ornamental Kale
Ornamental Kale is a fantastic choice for your fall container gardens. These colorful, eye-catching plants add texture and interest to any arrangement. They thrive in cool temperatures, making them perfect for the fall season. You’ll find that their colors grow more vibrant as the temperature drops.
There are several varieties to choose from, such as ‘Red Peacock’, ‘Purple Feather’, and ‘White Crane’. Each variety offers a unique combination of colors and leaf shapes, giving you the opportunity to create a stunning display. Ornamental kale can grow up to 12-18 inches in height and width, so make sure to give it enough space in your container.
To care for your Ornamental Kale, make sure to follow these tips:
- Plant them in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.0 and 7.0.
- Place the containers in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
- Water regularly, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season.
- Check for pests like aphids or whiteflies and treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
When incorporating Ornamental Kale into your fall container garden, consider pairing it with other fall favorites such as:
- Pansies
- Chrysanthemums
- Heucheras
- Ornamental Grasses
These combinations will offer a diverse and visually appealing display throughout the fall season. So go ahead, and add some Ornamental Kale to your fall container garden; you won’t be disappointed!
Black-Eyed Susans
Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia spp.) are a wonderful addition to your fall container garden. These cheerful, yellow-petaled flowers with their distinctive dark brown center, will brighten up your outdoor space during the autumn months.
To grow Black-Eyed Susans in containers, you’ll need to choose a pot with good drainage holes. They prefer a well-draining soil mix, so consider adding some perlite or sand to improve drainage if necessary. Fill your pot with the prepared soil mix, leaving a couple of inches at the top for watering.
Plant your Black-Eyed Susans at the same depth they were in their nursery pots. Space them evenly in your container, allowing room to grow and ensure they receive adequate sunlight. Keep in mind that these plants can grow between 1 to 3 feet tall, depending on the variety, so it’s important to select a container that will accommodate their mature size.
It’s crucial to give your Black-Eyed Susans proper care to maintain their vibrant appearance. Here are some tips to follow:
- Watering: Don’t let the soil dry out completely, but avoid over-watering, as this could lead to root rot. Check the soil regularly, and water when the top inch feels dry to the touch.
- Sunlight: Black-Eyed Susans enjoy full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Ensure they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
- Fertilizer: As these are fast-growing plants, they benefit from regular feeding. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
One of the best things about Black-Eyed Susans is their low maintenance requirements. Aside from basic care, you’ll need to deadhead the spent flowers to encourage new blooms and keep the plant neat. This process also prevents the plant from producing seeds, which can become invasive in some areas.
In conclusion, adding Black-Eyed Susans to your fall container garden is an excellent choice. Their bright color, low maintenance, and ability to attract pollinators make them a valuable asset to your autumn landscape.
Stonecrops
As you’re exploring fall flowers for your container gardens, Stonecrops are a fantastic option to consider. These low-maintenance perennials come in various forms, colors, and textures, making them a versatile choice for your fall container garden.
One of the notable features of Stonecrops is their hardiness, as they can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. This quality makes them perfect for planting in the fall when the weather can be quite unpredictable. Additionally, Stonecrops are drought-tolerant, which means you don’t have to worry about frequent watering.
There are several fantastic Stonecrop varieties to choose from, such as:
- Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’: This variety displays clusters of pink flowers that deepen to a red-bronze color as the season progresses. It’s a popular choice for its striking appearance and adaptability.
- Sedum ‘Cape Blanco’: With its silvery-gray foliage and attractive yellow blooms in late summer, this Stonecrop adds a unique touch to any container garden.
- Sedum ‘Angelina’: Boasting a vibrant, golden-yellow foliage that turns orange in cooler temperatures, this Stonecrop is perfect for adding a touch of warmth to your fall display.
To ensure your Stonecrops thrive in your container garden, be sure to use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. These plants prefer full sun, but they can tolerate some light shade.
Incorporating Stonecrops into your fall container garden will provide visual appeal throughout the season. With their variety of forms and colors, coupled with their low maintenance requirements and hardiness, Stonecrops are an excellent choice for any gardener seeking to beautify their outdoor space during the cooler months.
Snapdragons
Snapdragons are a fantastic choice for your fall container gardens. These charming flowers come in a wide range of colors, including pink, red, yellow, and purple. They’re sure to delight with their unique, dragon-like shape and bright hues.
To get started, select a container with proper drainage holes to ensure that your snapdragons stay healthy. Fill your container with a high-quality potting mix, and then plant your snapdragon seedlings or seeds at the appropriate depth. Make sure to space them properly, as overcrowded plants won’t thrive.
Snapdragons are low-maintenance and relatively easy to grow. They prefer cooler temperatures, making them ideal for fall containers. During this season, they’ll appreciate full sun, but partial shade is also acceptable. Be sure to water your snapdragons regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
To encourage healthy growth and an abundance of flowers, consider adding a slow-release fertilizer to your container at the time of planting. This will give your snapdragons the nutrients they need to thrive during the fall season.
Finally, it’s essential to deadhead your snapdragons throughout the season. This means removing spent flowers to encourage the plant to continue blooming. By doing so, you’ll enjoy a beautiful display of colorful snapdragons in your container garden throughout the fall.
Here are some popular types of snapdragons to consider for your fall container:
- Liberty Series: A tall, classic variety available in a wide range of colors.
- Montego Series: Compact and early-blooming, perfect for smaller containers.
- Rocket Series: Known for their large, vibrant blooms on sturdy stems.
In summary, snapdragons are a delightful choice for your fall container garden. They offer a stunning display of colors, are relatively easy to grow, and require minimal maintenance. Remember to provide the right growing conditions, water regularly, and deadhead to ensure a plentiful and vibrant display.
Asters
Asters are a fantastic choice for your fall containers. These beautiful, daisy-like flowers bloom in shades of blue, purple, and white, adding a delicate touch to your autumn display. They are relatively low-maintenance and offer a striking contrast to the warm, rich colors of other fall plants.
To successfully grow Asters in your containers, start by selecting an appropriate container with proper drainage. Asters perform well in containers that are at least 12 inches deep and wide. Fill your container with a well-draining potting mix to ensure the health of your plants.
When choosing your Asters, select compact varieties that will thrive in containers. Some great options to consider are ‘Purple Dome’, ‘Woods Blue’, and ‘Alert’. To enhance the beauty of your container garden, you can mix these Asters with other fall foliage like ornamental grasses and colorful mums.
Once you have planted your Asters in the container, place them in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Water them regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Asters appreciate a slow-release fertilizer as well to promote strong growth and long-lasting blooms.
Remember to deadhead your Asters by removing spent blooms. This encourages more blooms and prevents the plant from putting energy into seed production. With these easy steps, you will enjoy a beautiful display of Asters all season long.
Salvia
Salvia is a versatile and vibrant addition to your fall container garden. With its beautiful, eye-catching colors and unique foliage, it can instantly brighten up your space. The salvia family consists of numerous species, but for your fall container, the focus will be on the three most popular and hardy options: Autumn Sage, Pineapple Sage, and Mexican Bush Sage.
Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii) is an excellent choice for your fall containers as it blooms from late summer to fall. It comes in shades of red, pink, purple, and white. This plant prefers well-draining soil and is drought-tolerant once established, so be sure not to overwater. Autumn Sage loves being in full sun but can tolerate some partial shade as well.
Pineapple Sage (Salvia elegans) is a tropical delight for your fall containers, with its bright red tubular flowers and aromatic foliage that emit a sweet pineapple scent when touched. Attracting hummingbirds and butterflies, it can grow up to 4 feet tall, making it a fantastic focal point in your container garden. Pineapple Sage thrives in full sun and requires a little more moisture than Autumn Sage. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Mexican Bush Sage (Salvia leucantha) is a stunning option, featuring velvety purple spikes that contrast with its soft, green foliage. This gorgeous plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and is a popular choice for fall due to its long bloom time from late summer to early winter. Place your container with Mexican Bush Sage in a sunny spot, and it will reward you with a spectacular display worth lingering over. This variety is also more cold-tolerant, making it a great candidate for your fall container.
When planting salvia in your fall container, remember to give each plant enough space to reach its full potential. Space them about 18-24 inches apart to ensure they have room to grow and prevent overcrowding. In addition to being visually pleasing, salvia is also known for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, making it a functional and attractive addition to your fall container garden.
So as you plan your fall container garden, don’t forget to include salvia. With its captivating hues, distinctive foliage, and low-maintenance requirements, these lovely plants will certainly add a touch of flair to your outdoor space.
Coleus
Adding Coleus to your fall container garden is a fantastic choice! These colorful plants bring life to any space with their vibrant foliage. As you select your favorite varieties, keep in mind that they thrive in both sun and shade, giving you versatile design options.
To make the most of your Coleus plants, you’ll want to choose a well-draining soil for your container. Be sure to water the plant regularly and maintain evenly moist soil. Overwatering can cause root rot, so err on the side of caution when adding moisture.
Coleus comes in various stunning shades, shapes, and patterns, making it easy to create eye-catching arrangements. Some popular Coleus varieties you might want to consider for your container garden are:
- Coleus ‘Kong Red’: A large-leafed variety with red and green foliage
- Coleus ‘Wizard’: This has a compact, bushy growth habit and offers multi-colored leaves
- Coleus ‘Watermelon’: Known for its beautiful pink and green variegated foliage
Don’t forget to pinch back the tips occasionally, as this will encourage bushier growth and a fuller appearance. Removing any flower spikes that appear also keeps the focus on the plant’s stunning foliage.
Enjoy designing your fall containers with your chosen Coleus varieties, creating an eye-catching display that lasts throughout the season. Happy planting!
Goldenrod
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) is a fantastic choice for your fall container garden. They bring vibrant yellow colors and a warm, friendly atmosphere to your outdoor space. As you incorporate goldenrod into your containers, you’ll find that they are easy to care for and versatile.
Goldenrod plants thrive in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. Be sure to provide them with enough space to grow, as they can reach heights of up to 5 feet. When planting, space them about 18-24 inches apart. They are relatively drought-tolerant, but make sure to provide them with sufficient water, especially during dry spells.
There are many varieties of goldenrod to choose from. Some popular options include:
- Fireworks: This variety has a unique, arching form that resembles the shape of fireworks. It grows about 3-4 feet tall and has a spread of 2-3 feet.
- Golden Fleece: A more compact variety, growing to about 2 feet tall and wide. It has a bushy, mounded shape and delicate flower clusters.
- Little Lemon: This dwarf variety is perfect for small containers and tight spaces. It only reaches about 12-18 inches in height with a similar spread.
Adding goldenrod to your fall containers not only adds color but also attracts beneficial pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, to your garden. Pair them with other fall favorites like ornamental grasses, mums, and asters for an eye-catching display.
Remember to deadhead spent blooms to prolong the blooming season and keep your goldenrod looking fresh. Also, keep an eye out for any pests such as aphids. A simple solution of soapy water can be used to remove these unwanted visitors from your plant.
Incorporate goldenrod into your fall containers for a lively and inviting atmosphere that will last throughout the season. Enjoy the burst of color and the added benefit of attracting pollinators to your garden.
