1. Reblooming (Encore) Azaleas

Encore azaleas are the gift that keeps on giving. Unlike traditional azaleas that bloom only in spring, these marvels rebloom in the fall, offering a second round of vibrant flowers when most other plants are slowing down. Their colors range from vivid pinks and purples to deep reds and bright whites, making them a fantastic addition to any fall garden.

Care Tips:

• Light: Plant in a location that receives full sun, but partial shade in the afternoons is fine.
• Soil: Encore azaleas prefer well-drained, acidic soil. Consider using an azalea-specific plant food like Espoma’s Azalea Tone or Holly Tone to maintain soil acidity.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and keeps roots warm as the weather starts cooling.

2. Japanese Maples

Japanese maples are synonymous with fall. Their delicate, finely cut leaves turn into a stunning array of reds, oranges, and yellows, creating a breathtaking display. Whether as a focal point in your landscape or a centerpiece in a container garden, Japanese maples add a touch of elegance and color to your autumn garden.

Care Tips:

• Light: Japanese maples thrive in partial shade, especially in hotter climates like ours where full sun might scorch their leaves in the warmer months. 
• Soil: They prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Adding organic matter like compost can improve soil texture and fertility.

Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, particularly in the first few years after planting. Water deeply during dry spells to ensure the roots stay hydrated.

3. Nandina 

As the temperatures drop, Nandina’s foliage transitions from green to striking shades of red, orange, and burgundy. Nandina also produces bright red berries that persist into winter, providing visual interest even after the leaves have fallen.

Care Tips:

• Light: Nandina is highly adaptable and can thrive in full sun to partial shade. More sun typically results in more vibrant foliage color.
• Soil: It grows well in a variety of soils but prefers well-drained conditions. It’s a hardy plant that can tolerate less-than-ideal conditions.
• Water: Nandina is drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering will promote the best growth and berry production.

4. Fall-Blooming Camellias

Just when you think the blooming season is over, fall-blooming camellias burst onto the scene. These evergreen shrubs offer large, showy flowers in shades of pink, red, and white, providing a touch of color to the late fall garden. Plus, their glossy green foliage adds year-round beauty and structure. 

Care Tips:

• Light: Camellias thrive in partial shade, particularly where they are protected from harsh afternoon sun.
• Soil: They prefer well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter. Using a camellia-specific plant food can help maintain the right pH balance.
• Water: Keep the soil consistently moist. 

5. Conifers

While often overlooked for fall color, conifers provide unique hues and textures that enhance the autumn landscape. Varieties like blue spruce, arborvitae, and cedar offer striking shades of green, blue, and gold, which create a beautiful contrast against the warm fall tones. Plus, their evergreen nature means they’ll continue to add interest to your garden even in winter.

Care Tips:

• Light: Conifers generally prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade depending on the variety.
• Soil: They thrive in well-drained soil and are relatively low-maintenance. Some conifers, like the blue spruce, prefer slightly acidic soil.
• Water: Newly planted conifers need regular watering until established. After that, they’re fairly drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering.

Fall is the perfect time to let your garden shine with vibrant colors and textures. By choosing trees and shrubs, you can create a landscape that not only dazzles in autumn but also offers beauty and structure to your garden throughout the year. To stay inspired and grow with us, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to dig into the joys of gardening!