When summer comes to an end, many gardeners feel a sense of sadness. We tend to think that with summer gone, so go all the bright colors, leaving us with dreary weather and dull landscapes.
But guess what? October is far from gloomy!
You might be surprised to learn just how many vibrant flowers bloom during this magical season. The beauty of autumn doesn’t stop at the turning leaves – the flowers of October bring their own stunning palette to the garden.
What Starts Blooming in October? Key Flowers and Their Care Tips
From hardy perennials to cheerful annuals, there’s something for everyone, and these plants are tough enough to handle frost and wind.
Let’s explore some stunning fall bloomers that will transform your balcony or garden into a colorful oasis this October!
1. Autumn Saxifrage (Saxifraga cortusifolia var. fortunei)
The Autumn Saxifrage, also known as Octoberle in some regions, is a gem of a plant from Japan, Korea, and China. It’s compact, hardy, and perfect for small spaces, growing only about 10 to 12 inches tall.
The leaves are rounded and often variegated, coming in shades of green, red, and even deep black, making it a visual treat all year round.
Its star-shaped flowers bloom in October, producing delicate white or pink blossoms that stand out like little stars in the garden.
Care tips:
• Autumn Saxifrage prefers partial to full shade, although it can tolerate more sun if the soil stays moist.
• Make sure the soil is rich in humus and well-draining. A slightly rocky mix works wonders for this beauty.
• After the blooms fade, trim back the dead flowers to encourage stronger growth next season.
• This plant isn’t frost-hardy, so cover it with fleece or mulch for winter protection.
2. Japanese Toad Lily (Tricyrtis hirta)
If you’re looking for something a bit exotic, the Japanese Toad Lily is your go-to autumn flower. Native to Japan, this stunning perennial can grow up to 20 inches tall and graces the garden with its star-shaped violet and white blooms. It’s a real showstopper and thrives in those tricky shady spots.
Care tips:
• Partial shade is ideal for these beauties.
• Plant in humus-rich, well-drained soil in the spring for the best results.
• Regular watering is essential, as they don’t tolerate drought well.
• These lilies are hardy enough to survive down to -10°F, making them a resilient addition to any autumn garden.
3. New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae)
The New England Aster, or Raublatz-Aster, is a tall, upright perennial known for its striking violet, pink, or reddish blooms. These flowers can grow up to 4 feet tall, making them a bold addition to your garden. Not only are they beautiful, but they’re also tough – able to withstand frosty nights without a hitch.
Care tips:
• These asters love the sun, so find them a bright spot.
• Keep the soil moist and nutrient-rich for the best blooms.
• To promote more compact growth, trim the tops of the stems by about 4 inches before they start budding.
4. Bush Clover (Lespedeza)
Bush Clover, with its graceful, arching branches, brings a touch of elegance to any autumn landscape. It grows up to 5 feet tall and is covered in purple-pink flowers that bloom profusely in October. The leaves turn a lovely shade of yellow in the fall, making it a two-season stunner.
Care tips:
• Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot with well-draining soil.
• Water only when the soil is dry, as this plant prefers slightly dry conditions.
• Prune in the spring to maintain its shape and encourage new growth.
5. Sweet Osmanthus (Osmanthus heterophyllus)
Looking for something fragrant? The Sweet Osmanthus, also known as Autumn Osmanthus, fills the air with a delightful scent in October. It’s an evergreen shrub with dark green, spiny leaves and clusters of sweet-smelling white flowers.
Care tips:
• Prefers shady to semi-shady areas.
• The soil should be well-draining and humus-rich.
• Regular watering is key, as it loves consistently moist soil.
6. Guernsey Lily (Nerine)
With its lily-like blooms, the Guernsey Lily adds a bold splash of color to any autumn garden. It’s a resilient plant that thrives even in rocky, mountainous regions, and its pink, violet, or white flowers make a stunning addition to any flowerbed.
Care tips:
• Plant in a sunny, sheltered location for the best blooms.
• Water generously during the flowering period, but ensure good drainage to prevent rot.
• Protect with mulch or cover in harsh winters, as this lily is not frost-hardy.
7. Myrrh Aster (Symphyotrichum ericoides)
Also known as Septemberkraut, the Myrrh Aster is a bushy plant that blooms late into the fall, often stretching into November. Its small, white or pink daisy-like flowers create a soft, ethereal look, perfect for filling out the garden.
Care tips:
• This plant loves full sun and well-drained, humus-rich soil.
• Prune back in spring to encourage new, stronger growth.
With these fall-blooming plants, your garden can stay colorful and full of life well into October. Whether you’re after fragrance, vibrant color, or a bit of both, these plants are the perfect way to extend the beauty of your garden into the cooler months.
Now grab your gardening gloves, and give your garden the fall makeover it deserves!