Typical fall flowers: Find out which are the most beautiful varieties for the balcony
In This Article
- Typical fall flowers for the balcony – zinnias (Zinnia)
- Fall asters (Aster) are the flowers of the season
- Fall cyclamen (Cyclamen hederifolium) are reminiscent of ivy
- Sunflowers (Helianthus) shines even in cloudy weather
- Typical autumn flowers for the balcony – chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum)
- Heather (Ericaceae) flowers until November
- Typical autumn flowers for the balcony – marigolds (Calendula officinalis)
- Ornamental cabbage – not quite a ‘flower’ but very attractive in the fall
- What you need to know about growing potted flowers in the fall
Fall is a colorful season. Most plants turn their otherwise lush green dress into brightly colored foliage. There are many beautiful typical fall flowers, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere on rainy days. So here is our selection of fall flowers for the balcony, which delight the eye with their blooms.
Typical fall flowers for the balcony – zinnias (Zinnia)
Zinnias (Zinnia) belong to the aster family (Asteraceae). They are beautiful flowers that are ideal for an urban balcony garden. Its flowers are white, light green, yellow, orange, red and purple. There are many different types of zinnias, but the most common is Zinnia elegans. Zinnias have different arrangements of petals – some have a single row, others have multiple. They are easy to grow and their blooms last until October or November.
Their height ranges from a dwarfish 15 cm, like the adorable Thumbelina, to a gargantuan 90 cm, like the Giant Dahlias. In between are the varieties “Oklahoma” and “Magellan”.
Fall asters (Aster) are the flowers of the season
Whether in classic white, bright red or elegant purple: fall asters are the flowers of the season. Their flowers vary considerably in color, shape and size and can bloom well into November depending on the variety. With the right varieties, you can keep these beautiful flowers blooming almost year-round. They prefer to grow in sunny, nutrient-rich and well-drained locations. Overall, asters are extremely easy to care for.
The autumn aster “Aster novi belgii” (New York Asters) begins to bloom in September in a blue-purple color.
Fall cyclamen (Cyclamen hederifolium) are reminiscent of ivy
The hardy cyclamen (Cyclamen hederifolium) is a beautiful perennial with delicate, dark green leaves reminiscent of ivy and delicate pink flowers. These plants do not like high temperatures. Therefore, the balcony is an ideal place for them on frost-free days. For best results, grow Cyclamen hederifolium in semi-shaded, humus-rich soil. Mulch annually to keep the tubers from drying out in summer and cold in winter.
The white “Album” cyclamen flowers in September-October and has a flat and wide growth. The perennial reaches a height of 20 cm.
Sunflowers (Helianthus) shines even in cloudy weather
Do you already miss the long summer days full of sunshine? You can capture the resemblance of the summer sun’s rays in one bloom! The sunflower is probably one of the most famous plants. It lights up even a cloudy weather. Its bright yellow petals and impressive height of up to 3 meters make the sunflower one of the most impressive fall flowers. It blooms from June to October and is noticeable in every balcony garden. You can also harvest the delicious sunflower seeds in September. Sunflower seeds taste great in muesli, on bread or as a small snack between meals.
The ‘Capenoch Star’ perennial sunflower is a beautiful sight for the eye in early fall. Its large, magnificent flowers will decorate your balcony in bright yellow.
Typical autumn flowers for the balcony – chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum)
Perennial chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum) are particularly colorful in the fall and can rival even the most colorful fall foliage. The Paris daisy variety (Argyranthemum frutescens) is particularly popular as a balcony plant. But it also brings color to the garden in sunny and warm locations. In order for the chrysanthemums to develop their full splendor, they must be properly cared for. These beautiful fall flowers need regular watering (about twice a week), a fairly large pot (50cm apart in all directions) and potash-rich soil.
Chrysanthemum x hortorum blooms from October to November. Its bright red flowers with a yellow center and their fresh scent do not go unnoticed.
Heather (Ericaceae) flowers until November
Heathers are hardy, long-living flowering shrubs that bloom in winter, summer or fall. The different species and cultivars of the evergreen heath produce tiny flowers of various shades of white and pink, some of which are bell-shaped or remain as buds. Common heather (Calluna vulgaris) blooms from August to November, but the flowers that remain in the bud stage never wither and their splashes of color bring joy even on dull days.
The “Bonita” variety flowers from August and also has beautiful, bright red-brown flowers in winter.
Typical autumn flowers for the balcony – marigolds (Calendula officinalis)
If you have a south-facing balcony, the marigold could become your favorite flower. Their flowering period is long and often extends to the end of fall. They are also popular for their ability to repel aphids. These orange and yellow flowers are not very water intensive, making them ideal for beginner gardeners. Simply remove faded flowers.
The most beautiful varieties are “Orange Gitana” with orange flowers and “Yellow Gitana” with yellow petals and a dark center. Both varieties are compact and reach a height of up to 30 cm.
Ornamental cabbage – not quite a ‘flower’ but very attractive in the fall
This decorative plant is very easy to grow. It needs a sheltered but sunny spot to develop its pretty colors that will brighten up your balcony. With upright or spreading foliage, ruffled or smooth, ornamental cabbage can also be planted in garden beds.
Popular ornamental cabbage (Flowering Kale) varieties include Emperor White (smooth with white inner leaves), Emperor Red (smooth with reddish-purple leaves), Peacock Red, Peacock White, Nagoya and Osaka varieties.
Autumn flowers for the balcony – Great ideas for planting flower boxes and containers can be found here!
What you need to know about growing potted flowers in the fall
Fall balcony flowers are a must for seasonal decor, but before you create your beautiful floral arrangement, here are some basic rules to keep in mind:
- It is preferable to use large, solid containers as they are more resistant to the elements.
- Terracotta pots are breathable and provide a better environment for typical fall flowers.
- Place your plants against a wall to protect them from wind and drafts.
- If frost threatens, wrap your flower pots with a cloth to keep the soil warm.
- If you have organic compost, there is no need to fertilize your plants.
- If you already made your floral arrangement in spring, September is the perfect time to repot and freshen up the soil.