7 Best Plants for Your Fall Garden

With the right selection of plants, your garden can transform into a stunning explosion of color once the temperatures start to drop. If you’re looking to spruce up your yard this season, here are some of the most popular plants for a gorgeous fall display.

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++Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus)
Burning Bush

Very few plants put on a fall show quite like the Burning Bush. Its leaves turn a brilliant, fiery red—sometimes even a vivid pink—that practically glows in the landscape. While you can technically plant this shrub year-round, fall is actually the ideal time to get it in the ground. Just tuck it in with a little compost, and you’ll find it’s incredibly low-maintenance. Plus, the berries are a great food source for local birds, keeping your garden full of life and birdsong late into the season.

++Heather (Calluna vulgaris)
Heather
If you want that classic “moorland” look, Scotch Heather is the way to go. These beauties love acidic soil, so be sure to use some rhododendron mix or peat-based soil when planting. They produce tiny, bell-shaped flower spikes that come in various shades depending on the variety. When they’re happy in their spot, they’ll reward you with a carpet of color that lasts well into the cooler months.

++Stonecrop / Sedum (Hylotelephium telephium)
Stonecrop
Stonecrop is a hardy perennial that gardeners love for its long-lasting blooms. Whether you have a sprawling garden or just a few pots on a balcony, these plants fit right in. Their dusty pink flower heads look amazing against their thick green leaves. The best part? They actually thrive on a bit of neglect. Don’t overwater them and skip the fertilizer—they prefer a leaner environment to stay sturdy.

++Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum)
Chrysanthemums
“Mums” are the undisputed kings of fall. As the season winds down, it’s the perfect time to plant these in whatever colors your heart desires. Since many varieties are treated as annuals, you’ll likely be picking out fresh ones each autumn. When you set them out, just make sure the soil is nice and loose; they hate “wet feet,” so good drainage is key to keeping them looking fresh.

++Pansies (Viola wittrockiana)
Pansies

Looking for a total classic? You can’t go wrong with pansies. Their multicolored “faces” offer so much variety and charm. You can find them in almost any color combination imaginable to suit your style. They are super easy to care for and don’t require much fuss. Pro tip: Mix a little humus into the soil when planting to give them a nice nutrient boost for better growth.

++Fall Asters (Symphyotrichum)
Fall Asters
The star-shaped blooms of the fall aster are the definition of simple elegance. There’s a reason they’re a staple for fall window boxes and garden beds alike. With countless varieties in shades of purple, blue, and white, they are a favorite for everyone from casual hobbyists to professional landscapers. They’re the perfect “filler” to round out your flower beds as other plants start to fade.

++Chinese Lantern (Physalis alkekengi)
Chinese Lantern
If you want something truly unique, try the Chinese Lantern plant. These produce papery, bright orange husks that look exactly like little lanterns. They are fantastic for dried flower arrangements or just as a conversation piece in the garden. They’re also pretty flexible when it comes to location—they’ll be just as happy in a sunny spot as they are in partial shade.

%%Ornamental Cabbage & Kale (Acephala group)
Ornamental Cabbage
For a bit of texture, ornamental cabbage is a fantastic choice. These cool-weather lovers feature ruffled leaves in stunning shades of white, pink, and deep violet. They really pop when the weather gets chilly! For the best results, plant them in a sunny spot with rich, nutrient-dense soil, and make sure to give them plenty of water.