Your Complete Autumn Planting Guide

As the vibrant hues of summer begin to fade, it's time for garden enthusiasts to embrace the beauty of autumn planting. This season provides the perfect conditions for nurturing a variety of plants, from bulbs to perennials and majestic trees. This comprehensive guide will explore the best choices for autumn planting in Australia, ensuring your garden remains a thriving haven of colour and life throughout the cooler months.

Bulbs Bursting with Beauty:

Daffodils (Narcissus spp.):

• Plant these cheerful flowers in well-draining soil and enjoy their golden blooms in late winter and early spring.
• Choose a sunny spot and plant bulbs at a depth of about twice their size.

Tulips (Tulipa spp.):

• Select a mix of early and late blooming varieties for an extended flowering period.
• Plant tulip bulbs in rich, fertile soil with good drainage.

Crocuses (Crocus spp.):

• Ideal for naturalising, crocuses add pops of colour to your garden.
• Plant them in clusters in a sunny or partially shaded area.

Perennial Pleasures:

A perennial is a plant that lives for more than two years, unlike annuals that complete their life cycle within one growing season. Perennials are known for returning year after year, often going through periods of dormancy in the winter and then resuming growth in the spring. They can produce flowers, seeds, or fruits over several seasons.

Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii):

• Thriving in the milder autumn temperatures, this perennial boasts vibrant red, pink, or purple flowers.
• Plant in well-drained soil and provide regular pruning for a bushier appearance.

Autumn Joy Sedum (Sedum spectabile):

• This hardy succulent blooms in late summer to autumn with clusters of pink flowers.
• Plant in full sunlight, and enjoy its drought tolerance.

Japanese Anemone (Anemone hupehensis):

• Graceful and elegant, these perennials produce charming flowers in shades of pink and white.
• Plant in partial shade and keep the soil consistently moist.

Trees for Timeless Beauty:

Liquidambar (Liquidambar styraciflua):

• Known for its stunning autumn foliage in shades of red, orange, and purple.
• Plant in a well-draining soil, and provide ample space for its expansive canopy.

Chinese Pistache (Pistacia chinensis):

• A hardy tree with fiery red and orange leaves in autumn.
• Plant in a sunny location with well-drained soil.

Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia spp.):

• With its vibrant flowers in summer and rich autumn foliage, this tree offers year-round interest.
• Plant in a sunny spot and prune in late winter for optimal flowering.

Planting Tips for Success:

Prepare the Soil:

• Ensure well-draining soil enriched with organic matter to promote healthy root development.

Choose the Right Location:

• Consider each plant's sunlight and spacing requirements to optimise their growth.

Watering Schedule:

• While autumn brings cooler temperatures, newly planted bulbs and perennials still need consistent watering.

Mulching Matters:

• Apply a layer of mulch to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture.

Check out this blog for tips for your autumn veggie patch.