While most people think of spring when it comes to beautiful flowers, fall is a great time to add some color to your lawn and garden. The Master Gardeners at Cornell Cooperative Extension have some great suggestions for a last blats of color. 

There are several plants and ornamental grasses you can consider for fall color; many shrubs also peak in the fall.

 Sedums

Are heat and drought tolerant and don't mind poor soil; and deer don't like them. They come in different heights, and foliage colors; and their flower heads vary in color. Varieties such as 'Autumn Joy', 'Neon', or 'Maestro' add a fall punch to the garden

Hibiscus

If you want a "wow" factor in the fall garden, consider perennial hibiscus, with large plate sized flowers in white, pink or red. This plant actually starts blooming in mid-summer, but will continue to bloom into fall. They are heat tolerant, but do prefer consistently moist soil.

Ornamental Grasses

These plants peak in the fall and have attractive shapes, colors and seed heads. They also provide winter interest if left alone until spring. There are many nice perennial varieties to consider. Small fountain grasses such as 'Little Bunny' or larger switch grass varieties such as 'Prairie Fire' are nice.

Heuchera (or coral bells)

Don't underestimate the power of foliage versus flower color in your perennial space. Foliage color actually improves on this plant as temperatures get cooler. The selection of colors is all over the color wheel and there are varieties for sun or shade.

The Master Gardeners at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Oneida County answer your flower and garden questions on the Horticulture Hot Line, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon at (315) 736-3394.

 

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