As the vibrant tapestry of summer begins to fade, we welcome the cozy embrace of fall. It's that time of year when the air turns crisp, and nature puts on a show, transforming the landscape with rich hues of red, orange, and gold. Zone 6, where The Bloomery is cozily nestled, is no exception, offering its unique charm to gardeners looking to add a touch of autumn magic to their outdoor spaces. One way to do that is by incorporating some of your favorite fall flowers and plants into your planters and landscapes.
We have compiled a list of great fall flowers and plants to accent your outdoor space, whether it be in planters or planted amongst your outdoor landscape. Check out a few of our favorites:
1. Mums the Word
When it comes to autumnal flowers, the classic chrysanthemums, lovingly known as "mums," take center stage. With a diverse array of colors, mums are more than ready to thrive in Zone 6, given the proper care. These hardy perennials are bound to illuminate your garden beds or bring a festive charm to your porch in decorative containers. Their blooms will bring smiles even as the days grow shorter.
2. Asters: The Stars of Autumn
Asters, often referred to as Michaelmas daisies, are the unsung heroes of fall blooms. These perennials burst into a stunning display in late summer and continue their vibrant show into the fall. With their daisy-like flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white, asters are nothing short of mesmerizing. An excellent companion to mums, asters can be mixed for a delightful autumn bouquet.
3. Ornamental Grasses
In the fall, ornamental grasses come into their own. With their feathery plumes and changing colors, they add texture and movement to your garden. Look for varieties like switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) and fountain grass (Pennisetum) for a stunning effect in your landscape. They provide a captivating backdrop for your fall-flowering plants.
Photo: Fall mums budding with vibrant color
4. Seductive Sedum
Sedums are not just beautiful; they're incredibly low-maintenance. Their fleshy leaves and charming clusters of star-shaped flowers make them a fall favorite. Varieties like 'Autumn Joy' sedum are perfect for the Zone 6 region, and they look stunning in a planter or tucked into your garden. Sedums are also a hit with pollinators, attracting late-season bees and butterflies.
5. Pumpkins and Gourds
Fall isn't just about flowers; it's also about pumpkins, gourds, and all things cozy. Why not add a bit of whimsy to your garden by growing your own pumpkins or gourds in your planters or beds? They offer endless decorating opportunities with their variety of shapes and sizes, and when the season is right, you can carve them into dazzling Halloween creations. Beyond their decorative appeal, they can also be turned into delectable recipes.
6. Scented Herbs
Don't forget about herbs! Rosemary, thyme, and sage not only add fragrance to your garden but also enhance your fall dishes. A snip of these herbs can elevate the flavors of hearty stews and roasted vegetables, making your gardening efforts transcend from the garden to the kitchen.
Photo: Variety of fall pumpkins, plants, and grasses in an autumn landscape
7. Trees with Colorful Foliage
While we're discussing fall flowers and plants, let's not overlook the trees. Trees like sugar maple, red maple, and sweetgum, with their stunning red, orange, and burgundy leaves, are perfect for adding a splash of autumn color to your landscape.
8. Pansies
Pansies, with their delicate "faces," bring a touch of charm to your fall garden. These cool-weather favorites are perfect for planting in containers or as border plants. They come in a delightful array of colors, adding a splash of vibrancy to your autumn garden.
9. Ornamental Kale and Cabbage
Ornamental kale and cabbage are not just for eating but also for decorating your garden. Their colorful leaves form rosettes that intensify in hue as the weather cools. These hardy beauties can be an eye-catching addition to your fall landscape.
Photo: Vibrant reds, greens, and yellows in fall leaves
10. Sunflowers
Sunflowers, with their cheerful faces and golden petals, are a symbol of summer's end. However, they still thrive in early fall. Plant sunflowers for their vibrant blooms and to provide a feast for visiting birds during the cooler months.
11. Celosia: Flaming Beauty
Celosia, also known as cockscomb, brings a touch of exotic charm to your fall garden. Their unique, flame-like blooms come in a variety of warm colors, creating a captivating display.
12. Petunias
Petunias are known for their summer beauty, but they can still shine in early fall. Plant them in containers to add a last burst of color to your garden before the season's end.
Photo: Vivid warm fallcolored petunias
We hope you enjoy this handful of fall favorites for your garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a newbie, these plants and flowers are sure to inspire and delight you this fall.
Autumn’s canvas comes alive with vibrant colors, showcasing a symphony of nature's beauty, especially in Zone 6. It is here that you can also expect a mix of temperate weather, making it an ideal spot for growing these delightful plants. As you embark on your journey to create a picturesque autumn wonderland, remember that each plant, flower, and tree is a brushstroke on this masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just beginning to explore the joys of gardening, the diversity of plants available to you in this hardy zone opens a world of possibilities.
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