The Fall Flower Garden

Creating Color and Interest During the Off-Season

Flower gardens need not be restricted to spring and summer enjoyment. There are many plants that will bloom throughout the fall season as well. In fact, fall flower gardens not only provide extended blooming time, but sources like foliage, berries, bark, and other focal points can also provide additional color and interest. Additionally, these beautiful fall gardens offer food and shelter to wildlife at a time when it may otherwise be scarce.

The best time to plant a fall flower garden is generally late September through early October, depending on where you live. Checking hardiness zones for your particular area beforehand is especially helpful, and many resources are available which provide this information. Many cool-season annuals work well in a fall flower garden. Some of these could include snapdragons, pot marigolds, and pansies. These types of annuals are available in a variety of colors as well so finding one that suits your taste shouldn’t be a problem. Provided the fact that flowers are deadheaded within a timely matter, many of these plants will bloom throughout the fall. Bulbs such as lilies, autumn crocus, and cyclamen also do quite nicely in a fall flower garden. Numerous perennials also bloom during autumn and provide additional interest throughout winter too. Some of the most popular fall-blooming perennials include asters, chrysanthemums, and goldenrod. These should be planted in early fall.