Flowers to Plant in October for a Burst of Colour in Autumn and Beyond
As October ushers in crisp, golden mornings and the first hint of frost, many gardeners assume the season for vibrant blooms is over. Yet, autumn offers a unique opportunity to plant flowers that not only thrive in cooler weather but also inject your garden with colour when summer’s glory fades. With the right choices, your outdoor space can remain a riot of hues well into winter. Here’s your definitive guide to planting in October.
Chrysanthemums: The Quintessential Autumn Flower
With their rich reds, purples, yellows and pinks, chrysanthemums—affectionately known as “mums”—are the stars of the autumn garden. Plant them in well-drained soil with a sunny aspect, and water regularly without over-saturating the roots. Early-season pinching encourages bushier growth and a more generous display of blooms.
Pansies and Violas: Cheerful Hardy Companions
Pansies and violas are the perfect choice for borders, containers or window boxes. Their cheerful faces, in shades from violet to golden yellow, can withstand light frosts and cooler temperatures. Regular deadheading prolongs their bloom, while fertile, well-draining soil ensures they stay healthy and vibrant.
Ornamental Kale and Cabbage: Foliage with Flair
For texture and lasting colour, ornamental kale and cabbage are hard to beat. Their ruffled leaves, in shades of pink, purple and white, intensify after the first frost, providing a spectacular backdrop as other plants fade. Thriving in partial or full sun, these hardy plants are as resilient as they are beautiful.
Snapdragons: Autumn’s Vertical Statement
Snapdragons are ideal for adding height and a splash of colour to autumn borders. Plant seedlings in well-drained soil with full sun, and protect them from severe frost. Regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage a prolonged display, and watch as your garden gains structure as well as colour.
Cyclamen: Delicate Winter Charm
Cyclamen are the epitome of subtle elegance, with blooms in pink, red, purple and white. They favour shady spots and cool, moist soil, making them perfect for containers or tucked beneath shrubs. Avoid overwatering to keep their tubers healthy, and enjoy their dainty flowers brightening duller autumn days.
Winter-Flowering Heather: A Long-Lasting Palette
Calluna vulgaris, or winter-flowering heather, is a boon for gardeners seeking colour that endures. Shades of purple, pink and white lift borders and rockeries when most plants have retreated for the season. Thriving in acidic, well-draining soil, heather is hardy, low-maintenance and a reliable autumn performer.
Hellebores: Winter’s Secret Stars
Often overlooked, hellebores, or Lenten roses, offer subtle elegance with blooms in white, pink, purple and green. Plant them in partial to full shade now, and they will reward you with late-winter blossoms that feel almost magical. Once established, they are exceptionally low-maintenance and resilient.
Autumn Bulbs: A Surprise for Later
Planting bulbs in October ensures bursts of colour later in the season. Crocuses bring early spring joy; daffodils add classic elegance; and snowdrops offer delicate, late-winter charm. Plant bulbs at two to three times their height in well-draining soil for best results.
Top Tips for October Planting
Soil Preparation: Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure for a strong start.
Mulching: A 2–3 inch layer of mulch retains moisture and shields roots from early frosts.
Frost Protection: Keep an eye on local forecasts and use cloches or frost covers for tender plants.
Container Planting: Many autumn favourites flourish in pots and can be moved indoors during harsh weather.
With thoughtful planting, October can be the month that sets your garden alight with autumnal colour and ensures a lively, vibrant space through the colder months. A little preparation now will reward you with a spectacular display when most gardens have surrendered to winter.
