As summer heat fades and cooler temperatures take over, early fall is an ideal time to refresh your garden. Aim to plant before the first frost, which usually hits Illinois around mid-October, to give your plants the best chance to thrive. Planting early allows your garden to establish roots and stay vibrant well into the fall months. Here are some early fall planting ideas to keep your garden vibrant well into the cooler months.
Preparing Your Garden for Fall Planting
Before planting your fall garden, it’s important to prepare the soil by adding compost or organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient content. Fall’s cooler temperatures make it easier for plants to take root. However, you will still want to ensure that your new additions receive enough water in the first few weeks after planting. Mulching around plants can help retain moisture and protect roots from colder temperatures.
Recommendations
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Mums
Chrysanthemums are a classic choice for fall gardens, bringing a burst of color that can last through the first frost. When planted in early fall, mums will have time to develop strong roots, making them more likely to return year after year. For the best bloom results, make sure to plant them in well-draining soil and give them plenty of sun. - 2
Ornamental Kale, Cabbage, and Swiss Chard
These leafy greens thrive in cooler temperatures and withstand frost, making them ideal for fall planting. Their deep greens and purples add color to your garden, while their cold tolerance ensures they last well into fall. Plant them in full sun to partial shade for best growth. - 3
Pansies
Pansies are a go-to choice for early fall planting. They can survive cooler temperatures and stay vibrant after light frost. These flowers can continue to bloom through late fall and even winter. Plant pansies in well-drained soil in garden beds, pots, or window boxes. - 4
Perennial Grasses
Add texture and movement to your landscape with perennial grasses like switchgrass or feather reed grass. These grasses are hardy, low-maintenance, and provide a natural backdrop for fall flowers. They also add winter interest as their seed heads and foliage remain intact after snowfall. - 5
Sedum
Sedum, commonly known as stonecrop, is a perennial that thrives in the fall. As temperatures cool, sedum’s foliage often takes on a reddish hue. Its clusters of tiny flowers attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. This plant requires minimal care, making it perfect for busy gardeners. Plant it in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. - 6
Black-Eyed Susan
Rudbeckia, commonly known as black-eyed Susan, is a fall favorite. These tough, drought-tolerant perennials will continue to thrive with minimal care. Their vibrant yellow flowers bloom well into fall and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. They do well when planted in full sun with well-draining soil. - 7
Coreopsis
Coreopsis is another late-blooming perennial that thrives in the cooler temperatures of early fall. Its daisy-like flowers come in shades of yellow, red, and orange. This low-maintenance option tolerates a range of soil conditions. Plant it in full sun, and it will continue to bloom until the first frost. - 8
Asters
These star-shaped flowers bloom late in the season, adding vibrant blues, purples, and pinks to your landscape as other plants begin to fade. Asters also attract butterflies, making them an excellent addition to any pollinator-friendly garden. They grow best in full sun with well-draining soil.
Keep your garden looking vibrant and healthy as temperatures drop. Early fall planting is a great way to extend the beauty of your garden as the seasons change. Visit our Garden Center for more inspiration or to pick up fall plants.
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