Mum's NOT the Word!
We Don't Want These Beauties to be Kept Secret This Fall!
Hardy mums are the standard of fall plantings. A tradition. A signal that the shorter days of autumn are upon us, setting the mood for the change of seasons in the landscape. When thinking about your fall designs, make fabulous hardy mums the center of attention. But remember that there is so much more that you can incorporate into your landscape and container designs to make them more memorable.
Let us start at the top! Height is important to a mixed container. Grasses such as Pennisetum Rubrum and Carex Red Rooster are like an exclamation point- attention getters that add texture and interest!
The plumes of Pennisetum Rubrum add movement in the breeze and Carex Red Rooster is the color of fall harvest.
Some summer annuals such as Bracteantha Strawflower are perfect for fall. Strawflowers add a touchable texture, are well branched, and the colors lend themselves well to fall decorating.
Mohave Basket Yellow- so bright!
Celosia offers texture, color, and flower form options plus Celosia really attracts pollinators, giving them a boost as other flowers fade and before the cold sets in.
Plume types such as Floriosa Red
Cristata types such as Twisted Strawberry
Spicata types such as Intenz Dark Purple
Certain veggies make terrific fall décor items. Cabbage Blue Dynasty is a gorgeous fall accent with its vibrant blue-green color that adds drama to designs, great for larger containers and landscape. Swiss Chard Bright Lights does just that- adds “bright light” to a mix. Using these varieties enhances the feel of harvest time.
This design with Cabbage Blue Dynasty and orange and purple mums is dazzling!
Foliage is COLOR! Swiss Chard Bright Lights living up to its name in this landscape!
Lobularia Snow Princess- this Princess is one tough gal! She does great in the spring, summer, and fall. White is important in design. It makes the darker colors pop. White flowers are very visible from a distance, attracting the eye. Keep it in mind!
A Monarch Butterfly takes a rest on Lobularia Snow Princess during the fall migration.
Marigolds are very often the last flower standing in a summer garden. Marigolds are culturally important for the Day of the Dead (Oct 31- Nov 2)- their scattered petals are said to lead the souls of loved ones to ofrendas for a brief reunion spiritually with family as a celebration of life and remembrance. Using them in your designs sets the stage perfectly for this holiday.
Marigold Fireball- fiery fall color!
Marigold Durango Flame calls out autumn's contrasting colors.
Ornamental peppers are perfect for fall containers. As they come in many shapes and sizes, they allow you to make a design all your own. They can thrive in cooler temperatures and add interest and texture. Their colors mimic fall colors in yellow, orange, red, purple, and even black for spooky Halloween creations.
Ornamental Pepper Acapulco Multicolor Orange is a perfect accent to smaller mixed containers.
Ornamental Pepper Chilly Chili has non-pungent fruit that changes colors as it matures and can fill a landscape bed beautifully.
Beyond helping to set the mood and blend well with the colors of the season, if temperatures in the fall are warm, these selections will continue to grow, bloom, and show off their colors for an extended period, ensuring your customers’ satisfaction and their continued excitement for autumnal gardening!