Gray skies, rain and fading summer flowers can leave gardens looking dull, but there is still time to add seasonal color. Established autumn-flowering perennials can be planted in late autumn if the ground is neither waterlogged nor frozen.
Wet soil can deprive roots of oxygen, so planting should be delayed when the ground is too saturated to work. In those conditions, potted plants with good drainage can be kept in a sheltered position away from strong winds. Charlotte McGrattan, hardy nursery stock buyer at Hillier Garden Centers, also advises watering newly planted perennials as they establish. Rain may not be enough, particularly for plants grown in containers, so the soil should be checked regularly.
Here are five autumn-flowering perennials highlighted by McGrattan:
Heleniums are hardy and easy to grow, offering flowers in shades ranging from yellow and red to orange. Where soil is particularly wet or compacted, they are better planted in a pot placed in a sheltered location.
Heliopsis, also known as false sunflower, can be planted while temperatures remain mild. It forms clumps with branching stems, flowers for six to eight weeks and attracts pollinators. Removing faded blooms can encourage further buds, and the flowers can also be used as cut flowers.
Penstemons are generally best planted in spring, but potted specimens can still be planted now. Their flowers come in purple, pink, white and blue, including varieties with two-tone blooms. They need well-drained soil and tolerate drought conditions well.
Crocosmias add height and vivid color to autumn borders. At this time of year, established plants with roots are recommended instead of starting with corms. They prefer fertile, moist but well-drained soil.
Potted Japanese anemones can also be planted in late autumn when the ground is not frozen or waterlogged. Their pink or white, cup-shaped flowers grow on tall stems, and the plants can spread quickly, making them suitable for filling borders.
Sources: House Beautiful.