The Art of Fall Container Gardening
As the days grow shorter and the evenings turn crisp, your summer containers may be ready for a refresh. Fall is the perfect time to create bold, welcoming porch planters that celebrate the season’s rich colors and textures. At Nunan’s Florist & Garden Center, we grow most of the plants you’ll find in-store—including mums, ornamental peppers, and grasses—making it easy to design vibrant containers that last well into autumn.
Why Fall Containers?
Container gardening isn’t just for spring and summer. Fall offers unique opportunities to play with rich jewel tones, cool-season textures, and dramatic shapes. These planters can frame your entryway, add curb appeal, or brighten patios and decks as the garden naturally begins to wind down.
The Essentials for Stunning Fall Planters
Here are some of our favorite seasonal stars to mix and match:
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Mums (Chrysanthemums): The classic fall favorite! Their bold blooms in shades of gold, burgundy, orange, and purple instantly signal autumn. Plant one as a focal point, or tuck smaller ones throughout your design.
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Ornamental Peppers: Compact plants with glossy leaves and colorful fruit in shades of red, yellow, orange, and even purple. These provide an unexpected pop of color and texture.
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Grasses: Fountain grass, purple millet, or dwarf varieties add height, movement, and structure. Their feathery plumes soften the look and catch the autumn light beautifully.
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Supporting Players: Don’t forget trailing accents such as ivy, sweet potato vine, or creeping jenny to spill over the edge of your container. Kale, cabbage, and pansies are also great for extra interest.
Design Tips for Fall Containers
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Think Thriller, Filler, Spiller: Start with a tall grass as your “thriller,” surround it with mums and ornamental peppers as “fillers,” and add trailing greens or vines as “spillers” to complete the look.
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Mix Textures: Pair bold mums with the sleek shine of peppers and the soft, airy look of grasses.
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Choose a Seasonal Container: Rustic baskets, wooden barrels, or ceramic pots in warm tones enhance the autumn vibe.
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Feed Your Planters: Use a quality fertilizer such as Espoma to keep plants thriving through the season.
Long-Lasting Beauty
Water consistently, remove spent flowers, and rotate containers for even growth. With the right care, your fall planters will continue looking fresh through the first frosts.
🍂 Ready to create your own masterpiece? Visit Nunan’s Florist & Garden Center in Georgetown, MA for locally grown mums, ornamental peppers, grasses, and all the accents you need. Download the Nunan’s App for exclusive seasonal promotions, or shop select plants online at nunansdirect.com.