Planting in autumn for a bright garden in spring

Autumn is often perceived as the end of the gardening season, when in fact it's an ideal time to enrich your landscape. The cool air, moist soil and absence of oppressive heat provide perfect conditions for planting perennials. When they take root in autumn, they'll be ready to put on a show of color and texture the following spring. Here's a roundup of the best perennials for fall planting.

Why plant in autumn?

Planting in autumn allows perennials to focus their energy on root development rather than flowering. As a result, they take root more firmly and require less watering in spring. What's more, the still-warm soil and frequent rainfall create an environment conducive to rooting.

The must-have perennials of autumn

1. Peonies

Classic and timeless, peonies love to be planted in autumn. They bloom generously in spring and, if well cared for, will grace flowerbeds for decades.

2. Hostas

Perfect for shady areas, hostas come in a multitude of sizes and foliage colors. Planted in autumn, they root well and recover well in spring.

3. Echinaceas (purple rudbeckies)

These hardy, melliferous perennials attract pollinators and offer extended summer flowering. Planted in autumn, they fortify themselves to withstand dry summers.

4. Daylilies

Easy to care for and very hardy, daylilies produce colorful flowers year after year. Autumn is the perfect time to give them a good start.

5. Asters

End-of-season queens, asters extend their blooming season until the first frosts. Planted in autumn, they will offer a magnificent bouquet of starry flowers the following year.

6. Bellflowers

With their delicate bells, bellflowers add charm and lightness to flowerbeds. They acclimatize easily when planted in autumn.

7. Iris

Bearded irises, in particular, appreciate autumn planting. Their majestic flowers will bring elegance and structure to your landscaping.

Tips for successful planting

• Choosing the right location Respect the sunlight requirements of each variety (shade, semi-shade, full sun).
• Preparing the soil loosen it and enrich it with compost to encourage rooting.
• Correct spacing Leave enough space for the plants to flourish without competition.
• Water generously Even if the air is cool, perennials need water to establish well.
• Protecting before winter Add mulch around plants to preserve moisture and protect roots from frost.

Autumn for a sustainable garden

Planting perennials in autumn sets the scene for a stronger, more colorful and more vibrant garden come spring. By choosing the right species and following a few simple rules, you'll ensure a landscape that's both long-lasting and vibrant.