Urbana, IL — As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in, many gardeners in Urbana and across Illinois are preparing their gardens for the seasonal transition. While fall can often be seen as the end of a garden’s growing season, it’s also an opportunity for gardeners to showcase a final burst of vibrant color. Selecting the right plants can ensure that your garden continues to shine all the way to the first frost.
Many plants that thrive in the fall months are specifically bred to withstand cooler temperatures, making them ideal choices for this time of year. One of the most important aspects of preparing your garden for the autumn is focusing on durable plants that will maintain their beauty as the days grow shorter. Not only do these plants bring rich colors to the garden, but they also help extend the season for pollinators.
For gardeners looking to keep their landscape alive with color, several cultivars stand out. The Autumn Gold ginkgo, with its broad, symmetrical form, is a popular choice. Its fan-shaped leaves turn a bright, golden yellow in the fall, creating a striking visual display. Another great option is the Gro-Low sumac, which provides a low, spreading habit perfect for ground cover and also boasts beautiful red fall foliage.
According to Illinois Extension experts, the Quick Fire hydrangea is another excellent choice for fall gardens. This cultivar offers blooms that transition from red to gold and burgundy as the season progresses. Pee Wee oakleaf hydrangea is another top pick, known for its smaller size and vibrant fall foliage. These plants not only enhance the garden’s aesthetic appeal but also keep pollinators like bees and butterflies active late into the season.
For those aiming for cold-hardy options, the Moraine sweetgum tree offers excellent red fall color, while Scarlet oak is a standout with its striking scarlet leaves. These trees are well-suited for Illinois’ climate and can provide long-lasting beauty well into the cooler months. Shrubs like Black-haw viburnum also adapt well to most sites, with their leathery leaves turning yellow to red in the fall.
Other plants that bring texture and color include the Golden weeping willow, Wildfire tupelo, and the eye-catching Purple beautyberry, with its clusters of violet-blue berries that add a unique touch to the autumn landscape. Additionally, ornamental kale (Brassica oleracea) cultivars like Black Tuscan and Meadowlark are great decorative options that add both visual interest and hardiness to the fall garden.
When transitioning your garden into fall, it’s crucial to consider each plant’s requirements and ensure they’re well-suited for your location. The choice of plants will largely depend on the garden’s specific conditions, but with the right selection, you can create a lasting display of fall foliage that brings life and color to your landscape.
By embracing these durable autumn plants, gardeners can not only extend the life of their gardens but also enjoy one last show of seasonal beauty before winter arrives.
