Fall can be just as exciting as any other time in the growing season. As the days get cooler and the nights get longer, many plants are energized and triggered into their glory. The contrast of autumn perennials among the falling leaves can be magnificent. When a fall perennial looks its best will depend on the variety, the location it is planted and the type of weather we are experiencing.
Some plants will begin their show mid to late August. Others will wait almost until frost. Perennials planted in warmer exposures might develop several weeks earlier than in a cooler spot in the garden.
While blooms may be the most desirable part of a fall garden, don’t overlook plants with interesting and colorful foliage. Foliage generally lasts all season while flowers may be fleeting. Look at the shape and size of the leaves as well as texture and structure. Texture and structure are two very important elements in a garden for all seasons.
When selecting perennials for their bloom, try to imagine what else will be blooming or what foliage plants will be nearby to compliment its flowers. The duration of bloom on perennials vary greatly. Some lasting only a few days. Most bloom for 2-3 weeks and a few will bloom for a month or more.
| Fall Perennials | Summer Perennials |
| Autumn Joy Sedum | Yarrow |
| Chrysanthemums | Snakeroot |
| Asters | Tickseed |
| Joe Pye Weed | Fernleaf Bleeding Heart |
| Chocolate Joe Pye | Coneflower |
| Japanese Anemone | Blanket Flower |
| Goldenrod | Wintergreen |
| Fall Crocus | Sneezeweed |
| Turtlehead | Perennial Sunflower |
| Garden Sage | Perennial Hibiscus |
| Toad Lily | Cardinal Flower |
| Shasta Daisy | |
| Fall Foliage | Russian Sage |
| Lamb’s Ears | Summer Phlox |
| Ornamental Grasses | Obedient Plant |
| Ferns | Culver’s Root |
| Ligularia | Black-Eyed Susan |
| Lamium Grd Cover | Veronica |
| Barrenwort | Dahlia |
