What Do I Plant in a Fall Garden?
There are a number of plants and flowers for fall gardening. Most autumn gardens are planted from September through October. However, you should always check your growing zone in order to choose the best plants for a fall garden in your area before planting anything. Many cool-season annuals work well in autumn gardens. In addition, various bulbs make ideal cold temperature plants. Many fall-blooming perennials can also provide interest throughout winter. Like trees, ornamental grasses reach their peak in fall, which can further accentuate the fall garden with dramatic foliage color.
Cold Temperature Plants for Autumn Gardens
While there are numerous plants and flowers for fall gardening, here are some of the most common plants for autumn gardens to get you started.
Fall Annuals
Snapdragon (Antirrhinum majus) Pot marigold (Calendula officinalis) Pansy (Viola x Wittrockiana) Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus) Larkspur (Delphinium ajacis) Sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus) Sweet alyssum (Alyssum maritmum)
Fall Bulbs
Autumn crocus (Colchicum autumnale) Saffron crocus (Colchicum sativus) Autumn daffodil (Sternbergia lutea) Cyclamen (Cyclamen hederifolium)
Fall Perennials
Aster (Aster spp.) Delphinium (Delphinium x elatum) Sweet William (Dianthus barbatus) Mistflower (Eupatorium coelstinum) Goldenrod (Solidago spp.) Chrysanthemum (Dendranthema x grandiflora)
Vegetables and Ornamental Cold Temperature Plants
Many cool-season crops can also be grown in the fall garden, whether for the crops themselves or strictly for ornamental purposes. Crops that thrive in autumn gardens include:
Lettuce Broccoli Cauliflower Spinach and other greens Turnips Rutabagas Radishes Beets Peas Brussels sprouts
In addition, you can grow ornamental vegetables amongst your fall flowers such as:
Swiss chard Cabbage Kale Ornamental peppers
Now that you know about some of the best plants for a fall garden, you are well on your way to enjoying the garden beyond the typical growing season.
