Looking after your Autumn plants
Autumn is the ideal time for planting, as it allows plants to avoid the harsh early summer drought and gives them ample time to establish strong roots before spring. By the time warmer weather arrives, your plants will be well-rooted and ready for faster growth. Plus, you'll save time on watering compared to summer planting.
Do you love autumn planting as much as we do? Now is the perfect season to get started! In this guide, we’ll share the five best plants to plant in autumn and offer tips to help ensure your planting success.
Outdoor chrysanthemum
Planting an outdoor chrysanthemum on your patio will provide a stunning burst of color in autumn, just when many other plants have finished blooming. These hardy chrysanthemums can continue flowering well into November, as long as temperatures remain mild, making them a perfect choice for late-season beauty.
1. Outdoor chrysanthemums thrive best in partial shade. A cooler location means that the plant will thrive for longer. Light is important for the plant to bloom in full.
2. Plant it in a larger pot to make it easier to care for.
3. Water twice a week. The soil should be slightly moist at all times.
4. Remove wilted flowers gradually.
Heather
Heather brings vibrant colours to autumn with its striking blooms and, with proper care, can last the entire season. It’s also hardy enough to withstand winter outdoors without any trouble.
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Heather thrives in acidic, well-drained soil. For best results, use rhododendron soil, which is low in lime and has a low pH level.
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Place your heather in a bright, sunny spot on the terrace or in the garden to encourage prolonged blooming.
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Heather requires plenty of water and prefers moist soil. Be sure to water it weekly while temperatures remain above freezing, as it can quickly turn brown if it dries out.
Hydrangea
Potted hydrangeas offer stunning variety, with numerous beautiful types to choose from. Their compact, bushy growth makes them ideal for container planting, adding a lush touch to any space.
1. Place your hydrangea in a bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight.
2. Hydrangeas love water but don’t tolerate sitting in it. To hydrate properly, submerge the pot in water until the bubbles stop, and do this about three times a week.
3. Regularly trim off any wilted flower clusters to keep the plant looking fresh and encourage new blooms.
Alpine violet
Alpefiol, or Alpine violet, is one of the most eagerly awaited autumn plants. It thrives in cooler climates and typically becomes available in stores around August, making it the perfect plant to welcome the autumn and winter seasons.
1. Use nutrient-rich potting soil and ensure it stays consistently moist—neither too dry nor too wet.
2. Water the plant lightly each day, preferably with soft or rainwater. Avoid watering between the leaves or near the root; instead, pour a thin stream of water around the edge of the pot.
3. Alpine violets prefer cool temperatures, around 16°C, and can handle frosty nights. To help cool the plant in warmer conditions, try placing a few ice cubes on the soil.
4. Position the plant in a bright spot, but avoid direct sunlight.
Roses
Autumn is an excellent time to plant roses, often at a more affordable price. While they may look a bit lackluster now, they'll transform into stunning, vibrant bloomers by next year.
1. Roses thrive in nutrient-rich, well-drained soil.
2. Regularly remove wilted flowers to encourage a fuller, more abundant bloom.
3. Plant your roses in a sunny spot, ideally near a wall, trellis, fence, or pergola, where they can get plenty of light and support for growth.