By: Anna Stubbendick, FCHP
As the days grow shorter and the air gets a tad crisper (well, as crisp as it gets in the Sunshine State), it’s time to usher in the enchanting season of fall. While we may not experience the same dramatic foliage transformations as our northern friends, we can still create a burst of autumn magic right in our own yards. Welcome to Canterbury Farms Nursery & Garden Center’s guide on how to bring fall color to your Central Florida paradise!
The native Beautyberry shrub is aptly named, and its striking fruits are edible as well in jellies and wines. Photo by Anna Stubbendick, Canterbury Farms
1. Embrace the Power of Native Plants: Start your fall color journey by selecting native plants that thrive in our unique climate. Consider adding beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) for its vivid purple berries and the Tropical Sage (Salvia coccinea) with its striking red blossoms. These native gems not only add color but also support local wildlife.
2. Plant Vibrant Perennials: Perennials can provide consistent splashes of color throughout the year. For fall, think about planting Lantanas in shades of oranges, reds, and yellows. Their vibrant blooms will give your garden a lively touch of autumn. Red Pentas and Dwarf Vincas are also great choices for long-lasting color.
3. Go Crazy for Coral Honeysuckle: Coral honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) is a true Florida favorite. Its fiery red-orange trumpet-shaped flowers attract pollinators and add a dash of fall flair to your garden’s trellises and fences.
4. Pumpkins and Gourds Galore: Fall wouldn’t be complete without pumpkins and gourds! Create a charming display with various shapes and sizes. These seasonal classics are not just for carving; they make fantastic additions to your garden’s overall aesthetic.
Each October, Muhly Grass puts on a show with its pink, feathery plumes that “float” above the grass. Photo by Anna Stubbendick, Canterbury Farms
5. Ornamental Grasses for Texture: Add depth and texture to your garden with ornamental grasses. Consider varieties like Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris,) which really shines in October, or Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum). They sway gracefully in the breeze and provide a rustic fall atmosphere.
6. Pops of Fall Tropical Foliage: Since our deciduous trees rarely change colors dramatically, you can get your fall foliage fix from colorful tropicals. Crotons (Codiaeum variegatum) can be the stars of your fall containers with their vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves, in many different shapes and styles. Other great colorful tropicals could include Cordylines like ‘Red Sensation’ and ‘Auntie Lou,’ and Philodendrons like ‘Congo Red.’
7. The Marvel of Marigolds: Marigolds (Tagetes spp.) are fall’s unsung heroes. These bright and cheery flowers are easy to grow and come in various shades of orange and yellow. They’ll light up your garden beds and containers.
8. Spice it Up with Herbs: Don’t forget to add some flavorful herbs like sage, rosemary, and thyme. Not only do they add greenery to your fall garden, but they’ll also enhance your culinary adventures.
Decorate your seating area with colorful pillows to bring even more color to your outdoor space. Photo by Evergreen Enterprises
9. Create a Fall-Focused Seating Area: Set up a cozy seating area amidst the colorful foliage and invite friends and family over for a warm cup of apple cider or pumpkin spice latte. Add comfy cushions and blankets for the ultimate fall experience.
10. Illuminate the Night: Extend your fall garden enjoyment into the evening with strategically placed lanterns, string lights, or even a small fire pit. The warm glow will make your garden a magical place after dark.
So, there you have it, our guide to infusing your Central Florida yard with the rich colors of fall. Head over to Canterbury Farms Nursery & Garden Center to find a wide array of plants and decor to kickstart your autumn transformation. Let’s celebrate the beauty of fall, Florida-style, and make this season one to remember in your own backyard! Happy planting! 🍁🌻🍂
