As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, your garden doesn’t have to lose its vibrancy! Fall is the perfect time to introduce stunning bursts of color with low-maintenance plants that thrive in cooler weather. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these five plants will bring bold hues to your garden with minimal effort.
1. Mums (Chrysanthemums)
No fall garden is complete without the classic mum. These hardy perennials are a go-to for adding instant fall color, and with good reason! Mums come in a variety of shades—warm yellows, rich reds, deep purples, and bright oranges. Plant them in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight, and they’ll reward you with vibrant blooms through the season.
Garden Tip: For new gardeners, try planting mums in containers for an easy, movable pop of color. Once the blooms are done for the season, you can trim them back and see them return year after year!
2. Pansies (Viola)
Pansies are a cool-weather favorite that can thrive in the fall and even into early winter. Their cheerful, multi-colored blooms are perfect for brightening up borders, containers, or even window boxes. Best of all, they are known for their resilience in cooler temperatures.
Garden Tip: Pansies do best in partial sun and slightly moist soil. Add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and protect roots from early frost.
3. Ornamental Kale and Cabbage
For gardeners who love unique textures, ornamental kale and cabbage are a must! While these plants are not grown for their flowers, their colorful, ruffled leaves create a stunning visual contrast in any fall garden. Shades range from greens and purples to whites and pinks, providing a dramatic display that lasts well into winter.
Garden Tip: Ornamental kale and cabbage are perfect for container gardening. Pair them with other fall favorites like mums or pansies for a striking combination of color and texture.
4. Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’
Sedum, also known as stonecrop, is a durable perennial that shines in the fall. ‘Autumn Joy’ offers clusters of tiny, star-shaped flowers that start as pale pink and gradually deepen to coppery-red as the season progresses. Its thick, succulent leaves make it drought-tolerant, and it’s a favorite among pollinators.
Garden Tip: Plant sedum in full sun and well-drained soil for the best results. This plant can handle neglect, making it perfect for low-maintenance gardens!
5. Coral Bells (Heuchera)
For a fall plant that offers vibrant foliage, look no further than coral bells. Their leaves come in a variety of colors, from deep purples to brilliant oranges and golden yellows. While coral bells can bloom in late spring, their foliage remains a highlight throughout fall, adding depth and richness to your garden beds.
Garden Tip: Coral bells thrive in both sun and shade, making them incredibly versatile. Mix and match different leaf colors for a bold display that will stand out in any garden.
These five low-maintenance plants are perfect for adding fall color with minimal effort, making them ideal for new gardeners looking to create a beautiful, seasonal display. Stop by Hampton Nursery today to pick up these fall favorites and get started on your own stunning autumn garden!
