Okay, we are going to talk about something a little bit controversial today: overrated fall plants.
I know, everyone loves a good pumpkin patch and mums everywhere, but let’s be honest – not all fall plants deserve the hype.
You see all those perfect fall gardens with an abundance of flowers online, thinking you need all those trendy flowers. I filled my garden with the so-called “fall must-haves” and they turned out to be more work than joy!
So now, I’m here to save you the trouble and tell you what not to plant in your garden this fall.
1. Goldenrods Need A Spring Break
Goldenrods will definitely turn your garden golden. I mean, they have these beautiful, cheery flowers that also attract bees, butterflies, and moths (and every garden needs these beneficial bugs).
However, it’s better to plant them in the spring as they need full sun to grow and thrive. Sure, they’d get some in the fall as well, but it just can’t compare with the sun exposure they’ll receive during spring.
You can still plant them in fall just know that their flowers won’t last long!
2. Mums Don’t Like The Cold That Much
Even though garden shops are full of colorful mums as the temperatures fall, you might want to pass on them this season.
Mums love sun and need at least six hours of it daily, plus well-drained soil to thrive. Unfortunately, many of those lovely plants will struggle as the temperatures drop and often won’t survive the winter.
To give your mums the best chance at flourishing, it’s smarter to plant them in the spring. This way, they can establish strong roots before the chilly weather sets in.
Your mums will be much happier and healthier without winter’s cold air hovering over their precious flowers!
Related: Say Goodbye To Mums And Plant This Underrated Bloomer For The Most Dazzling Fall Garden
3. The Popular Coneflower Needs More Sun And Warmth
Coneflowers may be ideal for adding fall color, but they don’t handle cold air or frost very well.
They should be planted in the spring when they can soak up a lot of sunlight and enjoy soil that drains well.
While coneflowers come in many stunning colors, the deep purple variety is the most popular and recognized – plant it in spring and enjoy it all through summer (who knows, some might even last until fall).
Related: Try These Simple Tricks To Keep Your Gorgeous Coneflowers Blooming Year After Year
4. Black-Eyed Susans Will Be Gone After The First Frost
I know that black-eyed Susans are a favorite for fall gardens, with their bright blooms matching the changing autumn colors (pretty, I know). But if you plant them in the fall, they’ll likely be gone as soon as the first frost arrives.
If you want your black-eyed Susans to show you their true colors, I would recommend planting them in spring or summer. They need direct sunlight and can handle drought, so they’ll truly shine in this period!
I won’t deny that these flowers look great in the garden with their colors blending right into the fall palette. But if you don’t mind the mess and the brief blooming window, go ahead and plant them.
Personally, I’ve moved on to flowers that can handle the cold a bit better. If you need ideas, please check: 16 Flowers That Bloom & Thrive In Mild Winters