Ten Best Perennials to Plant in Fall

Even though it's summer and the temps are high doesn't mean you can't be thinking about perennials for next Spring. In fact, this is the perfect time since fall is the best time to plant them!

Here is a list of the ten best perennials that fit most zones.

1. Dianthus - These plants come back every year when planted in fall or spring; bonus, they can even flower twice a year. After their first flush of blooms, shear off the dead flowers, and they will continue to grow new ones! Dianthus like Spring/early summer conditions. Zones 4-9

   
   

2. Coreopsis - I love these plants because they spread every year and fill in areas of the garden that need color and weed prevention. I have Moonbeam yellow in a few areas and StarStruck, a daisy-like flower with variegated fuschia, red, and yellow in the center. They bloom in summer through fall. Zones 4-9

   
   

3. Clematis - I absolutely love these climbing plants! I have 26 different clematis that climb my trellises and are stunners! See pic above. You can get ones that bloom in spring, summer, and fall! Zones 4-8.
   

4. Lilies - These traditional plants are a favorite, especially daylilies (only bloom for a day but typically have tons of buds) and Asiatic lilies. Canna Lilies are absolutely gorgeous but seem to like more humid conditions so that they can overwinter in zones 8 & 9. All others 3-9. Some can get upwards of 5-6 feet and bloom in summer
   

5. Peonies - With huge blossoms that need staking, these puff ball blossoms are eye-catching and smell heavenly. I have Elle "Jules" (my nickname) Monsieur, but there are tons to choose from. They only bloom for a few weeks in late spring, but they're worth it! Zones 2-8
   

6. Hibiscus - These "dinner plate" blooms can get around 8-9 inches! Plant in fall for the next year's summer blossoms. Colors can be white, pink, red, or yellow. Most can handle zones 4-9, with some 10 -12.
   

7. Roses - Of course, I can't forget these! There are numerous types of roses, from single petals to triple petaled, and the smells, Ahhhh ... sweetly aromatic. For beginners, Oh-So Easy is perfect, and don't get too tall for small spaces. Zones 3-10
   

8. Hostas - You can't pass up hostas if you have shade and want a big, beautiful plant grown for its foliage. They can get huge and will even flower in the summer. They can help prevent weeds (yes, weeds grown in shade too) and look good amongst hydrangeas, geraniums, petunias, echinacea, and much more. Zones 3-8
   

9. Lupine - These colorful plants have long, bushy blooms that are akin to foxgloves. Find a sunny space and grow them together, and every year, welcome them back with yellow, pink, red, purple, or multicolor blossoms. Zones 4-9.
   

10. Plumbago - True blue dainty flowers sit atop sturdy, compact bush-like stems, creating a beautiful hedge for viburnum, euonymus, or other large bushes. They can handle shade and will spread, so ensure you have plenty of space. Zones 5-9.

Depending on where you live, you can grow many more perennials. Just ensure when you first plant, they are grown in good soil, are fertilized, and watered well.

Happy Gardening!!