As the heat of summer tapers off into fall, many plants begin to die or wither. However, numerous flowers can be planted during this time that will provide beauty and interest to any garden in the middle zone range.
Chrysanthemum
The most popular fall flower is the chrysanthemum, commonly referred to as a 'mum' for short. Today there exists a mum in practically every color thanks to the prolific breeding from horticulturists around the world. Orange, yellow and red mums complement the colors of fall, but blues and pinks can also be found. Mums thrive and are hardy for zones 3-9. Plant these in late summer and water well. Mulching helps them last through frost better.
'Snowball' Feverfew
Although feverfew has been labeled a weed by some gardeners due their rapid spreading, the snowball variety is much tamer. Lovely, tiny, white flowers dot the stems of this flower, which is hardy for zones 5-7. The blooms have a very strong scent, and it has historically been used as a medicinal herb. Plant these in full sun for best blooms. Feverfew is recommended for beginner gardeners due to its ease of growth and limited maintenance.
Crocus
Hardy for zones 5-8, crocus is both a fall and early spring bloomer. Often its blooms are a welcome sign for spring's arrival, but fall-blooming varieties also exist. Plant these flowers in large clumps for a more impressive display. Crocus comes in shades of purple and blue, and their vibrant hues add interest and color to an otherwise pale fall garden.
Sweet Asylum
Though its blooms only reach a couple inches, sweet asylm is a perfect fall bloomer. The tiny white flowers spread well, making them a great border or accent plant for a autumn gardens. Sweet asylum does best in cool weather, but it needs sun as well. Plant them in a partial shaded spot or in full sun for best results. Like feverfew, sweet asylum spreads and germinates quickly, so do not cut blooms back, as this encourages even more growth.
Goldenrod
These tall, whispy yellow flowers add texture and interest to a garden. Goldenrod is hardy for zones 3-9 and resembles a bright burst of fireworks. The plant has been used for various medicinal purposes. Although criticized for causing hay fever in the past, goldenrod has overcome this myth and re-emerged as a popular fall bloom in many gardens.
Considerations for Fall Blooms
Although there exists a wide array of potential fall blooms, be sure to check with an area's hardiness zone to further determine whether a plant will do well there or not. As perennials, mums, feverfew, crocus, sweet asylum and goldenrod are good fits for zone 6.
As the seasons change, fall can be a time where new blooms replace summer flowers rather than the closing of a garden display.
 |
