As the crisp air of fall begins to settle in, it’s the perfect time to rethink your garden.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, container gardening offers a fantastic way to enjoy fresh, vibrant plants right on your patio or balcony.
Today, we’re sharing 17 container-friendly plants that thrive in the cool autumn weather, including a mixture of vegetables, perennials, decorative flowers, and leafy greens!
1. Kale
Kale is a hardy green that becomes sweeter as the temperature drops. It grows well in containers and can withstand light frosts, making it an excellent choice for fall.
Use a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and wide, and ensure it gets plenty of sunlight.
If you’re looking specifically for vegetables, check out this post on best vegetables for a fall garden.
2. Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums, or mums, are classic fall flowers that thrive in containers. They provide vibrant color and are hardy enough to withstand cooler temperatures.
Use a container that is at least 8-10 inches deep, and place them in a sunny spot.
3. Spinach
Spinach is another cold-tolerant green that flourishes in fall. It requires a container at least 6-8 inches deep.
Spinach grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times, making it a productive choice for your fall garden.
It’s also a great companion plant for fall-loving peas!
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Learn how to pair plants for optimal soil health & pest control with this printable Companion Planting Chart!
4. Pansies
Pansies are cool-weather flowers that are perfect for fall container gardens.
They come in a variety of colors and can brighten up any space. Pansies prefer a container that is 6-8 inches deep and need regular watering.
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5. Radishes
Radishes mature quickly and are well-suited for container gardens.
They require a container that is at least 6 inches deep. Radishes thrive in the cooler fall temperatures and can be harvested in as little as three to four weeks.
6. Sedum
Sedum is a hardy perennial that thrives in fall.
It grows well in containers and is known for its succulent, fleshy leaves and clusters of star-shaped flowers.
Use a pot with good drainage, at least 6 inches deep.
7. Lettuce
Lettuce varieties, such as leaf, butterhead, and romaine, are perfect for container gardening.
They prefer cooler temperatures and can be planted in shallow containers. Lettuce needs consistent moisture, so be sure to water regularly.
8. Ornamental Kale
Ornamental kale is a decorative plant that adds a splash of color to your fall garden. It grows well in containers and can tolerate cooler temperatures.
Choose a growing container that is at least 10-12 inches deep.
9. Carrots
Carrots are another root vegetable that grows well in containers. Choose a deep container, at least 12 inches, to accommodate their long roots.
Fall planting allows carrots to develop their sweet flavor as the temperatures drop.
10. Heather
Heather is a low-maintenance perennial that blooms in the fall.
It grows well in containers and adds a touch of color with its purple or pink flowers. Use a container that is at least 8-10 inches deep.
11. Beets
Beets are easy to grow in containers and prefer the cool weather of fall.
A pot that is at least 10-12 inches deep is ideal. Both the roots and the greens are edible, providing a versatile addition to your fall garden.
12. Swiss Chard
Swiss chard is a resilient plant that can tolerate light frosts. It grows well in containers and adds a splash of color with its vibrant stems.
A container that is 10-12 inches deep will suffice, and it requires regular watering.
13. Green Onions
Green onions, or scallions, are perfect for container gardening.
They require a shallow container, about 6 inches deep. Green onions are easy to grow and can be harvested continually throughout the fall.
14. Arugula
Arugula is a fast-growing leafy green that thrives in cool weather. It grows well in containers that are at least 6 inches deep.
Arugula can be harvested continuously, providing fresh greens throughout the fall.
15. Peas
Peas, particularly sugar snap peas and snow peas, thrive in the cool weather of fall. They grow well in containers with a depth of at least 8-10 inches.
Provide a trellis or support for them to climb as they grow.
16. Parsley
Parsley is a versatile herb that can be grown in containers.
It prefers cooler temperatures and grows well in pots that are at least 8 inches deep.
Parsley can be harvested continuously, adding fresh flavor to your fall dishes.
17. Broccoli
Broccoli is a cool-weather crop that can be grown in containers.
Choose a large pot, at least 12-18 inches deep, to give the roots plenty of room. Broccoli prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade as well.
As the season changes, so can your garden.
Container gardening in the fall is a rewarding way to continue enjoying fresh, home-grown plants even as the seasons change.
This collection of plants are not only well-suited for containers but also thrive in the cooler temperatures of autumn, making them ideal choices for your fall garden!
