The Best Fall Shrubs for Containers

fall container

Fall brings an abundance of color to our gardens, but not all of us have the luxury of a spacious garden in which to showcase the seasonal beauty. That’s where containers come in handy. Whether you’re looking to adorn your porch, patio or balcony, fall shrubs in containers are a fantastic way to achieve a stunning fall display. So, what are the best fall shrubs for containers?

Winterberry holly is stunning with its red and orange berries. It usually blooms from mid-summer, but the berries start to become prominent in the fall. To grow winterberries as a container plant, choose a large container that’s at least 18 inches deep. Ensure the soil is kept moist and well-drained. During winter, make sure the soil doesn't freeze, as this can damage the plant roots.
Beautyberry, as its name suggests, enhances the beauty of your garden. You’ll particularly appreciate the magenta and purple berries in your fall containers. Choose a substantial container for your beautyberry and plant it in acidic, moist soil. To promote optimum growth, add a layer of mulch on top of the soil and water it regularly.
Heuchera or coral bells not only add color to your fall containers but texture as well. They come in various hues such as orange, purple and green, making them suitable for any fall container display. For best results, plant heuchera in a container with well-draining soil and place it in an area that receives partial shade. They are also low maintenance and can tolerate cooler temperatures, making them an excellent choice for fall containers.
Fringe flower, also known as loropetalum, is a vibrant option for fall containers. Its foliage comes in shades of red, pink and purple, adding a pop of color to your garden. Fringe flowers thrive in well-drained soil and partial shade, making it an ideal choice for container gardening. Keep the soil evenly moist and prune regularly to maintain its shape.

Boxwood

Boxwood is a classic shrub that looks stunning in any container display. It has glossy green foliage that remains vibrant throughout the fall season. Choose a large container to accommodate the root system of this shrub and plant it in well-draining soil. Boxwoods prefer full sun to partial shade, so make sure to place them in an area that receives adequate sunlight. Consider adding some winter-blooming flowers like pansies or violas around the base of the boxwood for a pop of color.

Don't be afraid to get creative and mix and match these fall container plants! You can create a stunning display by combining different textures, colors, and heights. Consider adding some ornamental grasses for a touch of elegance or some ivy to add cascading elements. You can also mix in some pumpkins, gourds or other fall decorations to enhance the autumn feel of your containers.

Remember to regularly water and fertilize your fall container plants, as they may require more care than plants in the ground. Also, keep an eye out for pests and diseases, as they are more common in container plants. With proper care and maintenance, your fall containers will bring beauty and color to your garden all season long! So grab your gardening gloves and get ready to create a stunning display of fall container plants. Happy planting!



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