Summer's over, right? We're certainly getting close, but that doesn't mean the growing needs to end just yet. This mid-season period is the perfect time to start switching up those summer containers in preparation for the colder season ahead. In this article, we'll explore some summer container ideas that seamlessly transform into captivating fall arrangements, ensuring your outdoor spaces remain inviting and colorful even as the seasons change.
How Do You Refresh a Garden Container?
You might be wondering how easy it is to transition a spilling summer container into an Autumn arrangement. As it turns out, it's pretty simple! Here are the best ways to accomplish a seamless seasonal changeover that will keep your outdoor spaces bursting with vibrant color:
Pumpkin Spice Palette
Bring that cozy fall feeling to your container gardens by embracing the "pumpkin spice" color palette. Swap out bright summer blooms with mums, marigolds, and pansies in warm, toasty shades that evoke a sense of autumnal celebration in every container.
Colorful Transitions
A smooth color transition is the key to successfully refreshing your summer containers for fall. As you swap out vibrant summer blooms for warmer fall hues, consider incorporating deep reds, oranges, and rich yellows. Mix these autumnal tones with the last of your summer blooms to create a harmonious blend of seasons in your containers.
Layering Textures
Containers spilling over with abundant annuals can undergo a dramatic transformation with the addition of textured fall foliage. Introduce ornamental grasses, branches with berries, and velvety leaves to add depth and complexity to your arrangements. These elements not only provide visual interest but also withstand the changing weather.
Hearty Herbs
Don't forget about your herbs! While basil and mint may have thrived in the summer, sturdier herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage are better suited for fall displays. Add texture with grassy chives. These aromatic plants are visually appealing and practical edible additions to your containers.
Go for the Gourds!
Celebrate the bounties of the harvest season by incorporating a variety of gourds, squashes, and miniature pumpkins into your containers. Nestle these charming vegetables among your flowers for a whimsical touch that adds both character and authenticity to your fall display.
Fall Accents
Introduce fall-themed accents to your containers to create focal points of seasonal interest. Consider adding small scarecrows, decorative hay bales, or even tiny corn stalks to evoke the spirit of the season and make your arrangements stand out.
Vertical Interest
As the growing season slows down, take advantage of your containers' new-found space by incorporating tall grasses and vine-like plants into your displays to add vertical interest and make your containers appear fuller and more lush.
Weather-Resistant Beauties
Bettendorf's fall weather can be unpredictable, so opt for plants that are hardy and resilient. Incorporate plants like ornamental kale, cabbages, and pansies that can withstand cooler temperatures and occasional frost.
Preserve Summer Memories
While transitioning to fall, leave a few of your summer blooms intact to preserve the memory of the sunny days that have passed. This blend of seasons can create a unique and nostalgic look that resonates with the changing times.
Repurpose Summer Containers
Rather than investing in new fall containers, simply repurpose your summer ones. All it takes is a fresh coat of paint or a bit of rustic roughing-up for your existing containers to perfectly complement your fall-themed arrangements.
Festive Lighting
As the days grow shorter, it's a great idea to add a touch of ambient lighting to your fall containers. Twinkling fairy lights or LED candles create a warm and inviting atmosphere, extending the charm of your containers into the evening hours.
Harmonize With Your Surroundings
Bettendorf's natural beauty is a canvas waiting to be complemented by your container designs. Take your cues and ideas from the surrounding landscape and let your fall arrangements harmonize with the local foliage, enhancing their overall visual appeal.
Experiment and Personalize
While all of these ideas offer a starting point, the true joy of container gardening lies in your personal touch. Experiment with combinations of summer and fall plants, explore unique container shapes, and let your creativity shine as you craft arrangements that resonate with your style.
As we creep closer to the end of the warmer days, it's time to refresh your summer containers for fall. By weaving the seasons together with flowers and foliage, you can create captivating displays that celebrate the best of both. If you need more ideas to help you make the switch to a fall garden this year, come see us today for all your seasonal gardening needs!
