Perennials to Plant in September

Sep 12

Many people believe that once the warm days of summer are gone, the gardening season is over. But for us gardeners, September is the perfect time to get our hands dirty and prepare for a spectacular spring display. Planting perennials in the early fall gives them a head start. Their roots get a chance to grow strong before the ground freezes. This means they will be ready to burst into life with vibrant color and foliage the moment spring arrives.

Here are five of the best perennials you should be planting this September to ensure a breathtaking garden next year:

Asters (Symphyotrichum)

These cheerful, daisy-like flowers are a fantastic addition to any Virginia garden, providing beautiful late-season color that can extend into fall. With varieties offering shades of purple, pink, white, and blue, asters are also a valuable nectar source for pollinators. I suggest you plant aster seeds or transplants in early fall to give them ample time to settle in.

Bee Balm (Monarda didyma)

An excellent choice for fall planting, Bee Balm is a vibrant and fragrant perennial that I've seen thrive in full sun and well-drained soil. Its unique, shaggy flowers attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies, making it a lively addition to your garden. Planting it in September ensures a robust display of red, pink, or purple blooms next summer.

Blazing Star (Liatris spicata)

For a distinctive vertical element, I suggest you consider the Blazing Star. This unique flower sends up tall spikes densely packed with purple florets, creating a striking visual. I've found that sowing the seeds of this flower in September is ideal because they need a period of cold to properly germinate for a stunning bloom performance the following year.

Grape Hyacinth (Muscari)

These charming, small bulbs are a classic sign of spring. I've always loved how they carpet the ground with clusters of bell-shaped, often blue or purple, flowers. Fall is the perfect season to plant these low-maintenance bulbs, and doing so in September allows them to establish well for an early and delightful burst of color.

Hellebore (Helleborus)

I've learned that hellebores are a true garden treasure. Known for their elegant, winter-blooming flowers, they provide color when little else is in bloom. Hellebores should be planted in the fall. If you're planting from seed, do so in September so they can experience a necessary chilling period of about 60 days to germinate. These shade-loving plants are perfect for bringing life to shadier spots.

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So, don’t put away your gardening gloves just yet! Head out and take advantage of the perfect planting conditions this September to set your garden up for a truly spectacular spring. Happy gardening!

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