Top 10 Perennials Successfully Blossom Following Autumn Sowing
Fall is an ideal time for gardeners to prepare their outdoor spaces for the upcoming season. By focusing on planting perennials, garden enthusiasts can enjoy vibrant blooms well into the colder months and set the stage for a bountiful growing season next year.
Perennials, such as chrysanthemums, asters, sedums, coneflowers, salvias, and balloon flowers, are favoured for fall planting due to their ability to thrive in the cooler temperatures and increased soil moisture of the season. These species not only add colour and interest to gardens during the fall, but they also return reliably each year [1][2][5].
The benefits of fall planting are twofold. Cooler temperatures and increased soil moisture reduce stress on young plants, allowing them to establish strong root systems before winter dormancy. When planted 6-8 weeks before the first frost, perennials can use the warm soil and moderate air temperatures to develop roots without the demand of supporting heavy top growth [1][4]. This root establishment is crucial for survival through winter and vigorous blooming the following year.
When it comes to specific perennials, Schubertii Allium, Russian Sage, Parrot Tulips, Crown Imperials, and Black-Eyed Susans are all excellent choices. Schubertii Allium features large, spherical flower heads composed of tiny star-shaped blossoms. Russian Sage is known for its tall, airy spikes of blue flowers and silvery-gray foliage. Parrot Tulips boast flamboyant, fringed petals in vibrant colours such as red, yellow, and orange. Crown Imperials are striking perennials with tall stems topped with clusters of bell-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Black-Eyed Susans, or Rudbeckia hirta, offer a burst of golden yellow petals surrounding dark brown centres [3].
To ensure success when planting in the fall, there are a few key considerations. First and foremost, the soil should be well-draining but not too dry or too wet. Second, planting 6-8 weeks before frost is essential to allow root development. Third, if planting later in the season, opt for container-grown perennials for better resilience. Lastly, for Black-Eyed Susans, adding a slow-release, balanced fertilizer during planting can provide essential nutrients [1].
For specific perennials, such as Schubertii Allium, Crown Imperials, and Parrot Tulips, it is important to plant them in the fall to give them ample time to establish their roots before winter. Ensure the bulbs used for Crown Imperials are large, measuring at least 8-10 cm (3-4 inches) in diameter, and firm to the touch [3]. Black-Eyed Susans should be planted in early to mid-fall to give them a head start for the next growing season [4].
In summary, fall planting is advantageous because it focuses on root development under favourable conditions, ensuring strong, healthy plants that bloom beautifully in the fall and return reliably each year [1][4][5]. By taking the time to plant perennials in the fall, gardeners can enjoy a vibrant display of colour well into the colder months and set the stage for a bountiful growing season next year.
References:
[1] The Spruce. (2021). Perennials for Fall Planting. [online] Available at: https://www.thespruce.com/perennials-for-fall-planting-1402408
[2] The Old Farmer's Almanac. (2021). Fall Gardening Tips. [online] Available at: https://www.almanac.com/content/fall-gardening-tips
[3] Gardening Know How. (2021). How to Grow Schubertii Allium. [online] Available at: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/allium/schubertii-allium-growing-guide.htm
[4] The Old Farmer's Almanac. (2021). How to Plant Black-Eyed Susan. [online] Available at: https://www.almanac.com/content/how-plant-black-eyed-susan
[5] The Spruce. (2021). Russian Sage Care. [online] Available at: https://www.thespruce.com/russian-sage-care-6098307
Home-and-garden enthusiasts can optimize their gardens by planting perennials during fall, as these species thrive in the cooler temperatures and increased soil moisture of the season, providing colour and interest beyond autumn and reappearing annually. To reap the benefits of fall planting, it's essential to plant 6-8 weeks before the first frost, ensuring successful root development for a bountiful growing season in the spring.
