Fall Container Plants

There is a noticeable change in the air and new plants have arrived in the greenhouse. It is that time of year to start thinking about fall containers.

Chrysanthemums (Garden Mums) are one of the most popular fall container plants and for large pops of color, they can’t be beat. The grow well in sun or part shade. They are generally used as annuals but they can sometimes be overwintered if planted in a protected area. The following year, they should be pinched back until July for fall blooms.

Pansies are one of the stars of fall and early spring gardens. The cheery flowers in shades of blue, yellow, orange and white are great for container planting and they also do well in the ground. They are winter hardy and will continue to bloom through the winter months. They do well in full sun or part shade in moist soil. Periodically apply liquid fertilizer for robust plants and continual bloom.

Rudbeckia (Black-eyed Susan) is a must for the late summer and fall garden but it can also be grown as a pot plant. Some varieties are cold-hardier than others so it depends on the variety as to where they can overwinter.

Ornamental Peppers (Capsicum annuum) provide vibrant pops of color in container planters and are good as accent and filler plants. These plants need plenty of sun to thrive. The leaves of ornamental pepper plants are toxic to humans and animals.

Ornamental Millet (Pennisetum glaucum) is a dramatic choice for a “thriller” plant. This upright plant produces long leaves in purple and green hues. They like full sun and moist soil. They will tolerate partial shade but the coloring may not be as rich.