White Diamonds® Panicle Hydrangea, Fireside® Ninebark and Little Carlow Aster in the fall garden. Photo: First Editions® Shrubs & Trees/Tracy Walsh
As autumn brings crispness to the air, I get excited about what that means for the plants around me. Here’s a list of just a few of my favorites that provide unforgettable fall foliage views in the garden:
Aster: I love the unexpected in the garden, and that’s why aster makes the list. We’re all so used to reds and oranges during this time of year, so planting these around the garden brings some excitement. My pick is Little Carlow Aster, a native shrub to North America that features violet-blue flowers that provide a fun contrast to those classic fall hues.
Birch Trees: While I love a deep red leaf, there’s something about yellow birch leaves that makes me swoon. If you need extra privacy and want to add fall views to the garden, consider planting a row of birch trees to get the job done.
Panicle Hydrangeas: Once the evening temperatures start to dip, panicle hydrangeas start their bloom transformation. I’ve talked about panicles a lot, you may remember my favorite Berry White®, but another one to add to the list is White Diamonds®. It has more of an open panicle shape and ages to a stunning parchment pink in the fall.
Ninebark: These shrubs are true multiseason wonders, and fall is no exception. With a wide range of hues to pick from, you have countless options. Looking for something dark and moody, go with Fireside®, which features dark purple, almost black leaves. Hoping for something to provide fabulous shades of orange? Go with Amber Jubilee™ Ninebark.
Gretchen McNaughton is the communications and content strategist at Bailey Nurseries. Learn more at firsteditionsplants.com.
