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Mums may be the go-to flower for fall, but they’re far from your only option. Cooler weather can still bring plenty of color to the garden, and many stunning blooms outshine mums in both variety and charm.
From late-season showstoppers to plants that thrive in crisp autumn air, these flowers will keep your garden vibrant well past summer. Here are some gorgeous fall plants worth growing this year that might make you skip the mums altogether.
Aster
Asters come in various shades of purple, pink, and yellow, making them perfect for fall gardens. These daisy-like flowers attract pollinators and are beloved for their abundant late summer and fall blooms, adding a burst of color to any garden.
These hardy perennials are adaptable and thrive in a wide range of soil types, moisture levels, and USDA hardiness zones, ranging from 3 to 9. They prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Turtlehead
Named for its unique flower shape, which resembles a turtle’s head, Turtlehead thrives in moist, shaded areas, providing late-season color with its pink or white blooms. This plant pairs nicely with small shrubs. Zone 3-8
Goldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Goldenrod is a plant that blooms in late summer, showcasing tall spikes filled with small, bright yellow flowers. It does best in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade. The vivid yellow flowers of
African Daisy
African Daisies, also known as Osteospermum, can be grown as either perennials or annuals, depending on the climate. In colder climates—zones 9 and below—they are typically treated as annuals and must be replanted each year.
Autumn Crocus
Autumn crocus, also known as colchicum or meadow saffron, is a captivating bulb flower that blooms in late summer or early fall. The flower is delicate, with a goblet-shaped form in shades of purple, pink, or white.
This unique plant emerges directly from the soil without any foliage, earning it the nickname “naked lady.” While admired for its ethereal beauty, the autumn crocus is important to handle carefully, as all parts of the plant are highly toxic if ingested.
Anemone
Fall-blooming with simple, poppy-like white flowers that are soft and delicate looking. It is best to plant in partial shade in fertile, moist soil that drains well but doesn’t dry out quickly. Divide clumps every few years to maintain vigor and encourage additional plant growth.
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Helenium
Also known as sneezeweed,
Calendula
Calendula seeds sown in August will produce a glorious display of early spring blooms, ideal for pollinating insects as they emerge from hibernation.
Sedum (Autumn Joy)
Sedum varieties are low-maintenance and thrive in full sun. They provide late-season blooms and are excellent for attracting butterflies. These flowers are long-lasting and dry well for winter arrangements. Zones 3-9
Petunia (Petunia × hybrida)
Petunias are prolific bloomers, offering a range of trumpet-shaped flowers in various colors, including purple, pink, white, and red. Their stunning display makes petunias a garden favorite.
They are excellent for containers, hanging baskets, and rock gardens, blooming continuously with regular deadheading. Plant in well-drained soil in a sunny spot. These plants will bloom until the first frost, creating a garden full of vibrant colors and lush growth.
Tickseed (Coreopsis)
Coreopsis is recognized for its vibrant, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, gold, orange, and occasionally red or pink. This hardy, drought-tolerant plant blooms from early summer to fall, adding a lasting splash of color to the garden. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an easy-care option for various settings. Zones 4-9
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