As the vibrant hues of summer fade into the warm and earthy tones of autumn, gardeners and landscaping enthusiasts have a unique opportunity to enhance their outdoor spaces with the beauty of fall foliage. While deciduous trees and shrubs contribute to the grandeur of the season, there's another often-overlooked element that can make a significant impact: autumn ground covers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the world of ground covers for autumn, from their practical benefits to a selection of stunning options that will blanket your soil with color, texture, and seasonal charm.The following content also has some reference value for raised garden beds.
The Role of Ground Covers in Autumn
Ground covers are low-growing plants that serve several essential functions in your garden or landscape, regardless of the season. These include:
- Weed Suppression: Ground covers create a dense carpet of foliage that shades the soil, preventing weeds from taking root and competing with your desired plants.
- Erosion Control: They help stabilize the soil on slopes and prevent erosion, especially after heavy rains.
- Moisture Retention: Ground covers reduce water evaporation from the soil, helping maintain consistent moisture levels for your plants.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Beyond their practical benefits, ground covers add visual interest, texture, and color to your landscape.
In autumn, ground covers take on an even more critical role. They offer an opportunity to extend the beauty of your outdoor space as many other plants begin to fade. Autumn ground covers provide a rich tapestry of colors, from fiery reds and oranges to deep purples and browns, creating a captivating backdrop for your fall garden.
Choosing the Right Autumn Ground Covers
When selecting ground covers for autumn, it's essential to consider factors such as your climate, soil type, and the specific look you want to achieve. Here are some popular autumn ground covers to consider:
1. Sedum
Sedums are reliable ground covers known for their resilience and low maintenance. In autumn, many sedum varieties turn captivating shades of pink, red, and russet. Some notable options include:
- Autumn Joy (Sedum spectabile): As the name suggests, this variety is a standout in the fall garden, with large, dome-shaped flower heads that transition from green to pink and then to deep copper.
- Dragon's Blood (Sedum spurium): This low-growing sedum displays striking deep red foliage that intensifies in color as temperatures drop.
2. Creeping Jenny
Creeping Jenny is a ground cover that offers brilliant gold to chartreuse foliage throughout the year. In autumn, its leaves take on warm, coppery tones, making it a vibrant addition to the garden.
3. Coral Bells
Coral bells are known for their stunning foliage, which comes in various shades of green, purple, and silver. In the fall, these leaves often deepen in color, creating a captivating contrast with other autumn hues.
- Purple Palace (Heuchera micrantha 'Purple Palace'): This variety features striking deep purple leaves that intensify in color as autumn progresses.
4. Bugleweed
Bugleweed is a low-growing ground cover that forms dense mats of foliage. In the fall, some ajuga varieties offer dark foliage with undertones of purple, making them a valuable addition to the autumn landscape.
- Black Scallop (Ajuga reptans 'Black Scallop'): With its glossy, near-black leaves, this variety adds a touch of drama to the garden as temperatures cool.
5. Japanese Blood Grass
Japanese blood grass is a visually striking ground cover, known for its red-tipped foliage. In the fall, this grass takes on fiery hues, resembling flickering flames in the garden.
6. Cranesbill Geranium
Cranesbill geraniums are versatile ground covers that offer delicate foliage and charming flowers. Some varieties, like the 'Rozanne' geranium, continue to bloom well into the fall, providing both color and nectar for late-season pollinators.
7. Hosta
Hostas are beloved for their lush foliage, which ranges from blue-green to variegated. In the fall, the leaves of some hosta varieties turn golden yellow, extending their appeal well beyond the summer.
- Sum and Substance (Hosta 'Sum and Substance'): This variety boasts large, chartreuse leaves that become even more vibrant in the autumn sun.
8. Japanese Forest Grass
Japanese forest grass is an elegant ground cover with cascading, arching blades. In the fall, it transitions to a golden hue, creating a graceful and gentle presence in the garden.
9. Autumn Fern
Autumn ferns are aptly named for their stunning fall foliage. As temperatures drop, their fronds take on warm shades of copper and bronze, adding an autumnal touch to shaded areas.
These are just a few examples of autumn ground covers to consider. When choosing ground covers for your garden, be sure to research their specific growth habits, hardiness zones, and soil requirements to ensure they will thrive in your location.
Designing with Autumn Ground Covers
Once you've selected your autumn ground covers, it's time to incorporate them into your landscape design effectively. Here are some design ideas to make the most of these colorful additions:
1. Ground Cover Borders
Create borders or edging around flower beds, pathways, or garden borders using autumn ground covers. Planting them in a defined area can highlight their seasonal beauty and provide a neat and organized appearance.
2. Under Tree Plantings
Many trees shed their leaves in the fall, leaving bare soil beneath. Planting autumn ground covers under trees not only covers the bare ground but also adds vibrant color and texture to the area.
3. Mix with Other Plants
Combine autumn ground covers with late-blooming perennials, ornamental grasses, or shrubs that showcase fall foliage. This blending of textures and colors can create a visually appealing and dynamic landscape.
4. Create Patterns
Experiment with planting patterns or geometric designs using different ground cover varieties. For example, you can create swirls, waves, or concentric circles of contrasting ground covers to add artistic flair to your garden.
5. In Containers
Don't limit your ground covers to the ground. Plant them in containers or hanging baskets for elevated displays on patios, balconies, or entrances. This allows you to enjoy their autumnal beauty up close.
6. Rock Gardens
If you have a rock garden or alpine garden, consider adding autumn ground covers between the rocks. The contrasting colors and textures can enhance the natural beauty of the rock formations.
7. Stepping Stones
Plant ground covers between stepping stones or pavers to create a visually striking and functional pathway. This adds an element of surprise and intrigue to your garden.
Caring for Autumn Ground Covers
To ensure that your autumn ground covers thrive and remain healthy throughout the season, follow these care guidelines:
- Watering: While most ground covers are drought-tolerant once established, be sure to provide sufficient water during dry spells, especially if you're planting them in the fall.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around your ground covers to help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
- Fertilizing: In the early spring or late summer, consider applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
- Pruning: Regularly trim or prune your ground covers as needed to maintain their desired shape and prevent overcrowding.
- Division: Some ground covers benefit from occasional division to rejuvenate their growth. Divide them every few years to maintain their vitality.
- Protection: In regions with harsh winters, consider adding a layer of mulch or straw to protect your ground covers from extreme cold.
- Pest and Disease Control: Monitor your ground covers for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate measures to address any issues promptly.
By providing proper care, you can ensure that your autumn ground covers not only survive but thrive, adding to the visual richness of your fall landscape.
Conclusion
Autumn ground covers are a versatile and often underappreciated element in garden and landscape design. They offer a canvas of colors that can transform your outdoor spaces, adding warmth, texture, and visual interest as the days grow shorter and cooler. Whether you're looking to create a stunning border, fill in gaps, or enhance your garden's overall appeal, autumn ground covers provide an array of options to suit your style and climate. So, embrace the beauty of fall with these vibrant and practical additions to your garden, and watch as they blanket the soil with color, elevating your outdoor experience during this enchanting season.
