Four Quick and Easy Landscape Projects for Fall

Halloween-Disney Style

Last week I went with my family to Disney World to attend Mickey's Not-So-Spooky Halloween Party.  When we got there I noticed that the park had been enhanced with Halloween themed elements such as Mickey pumpkins and displays of autumnal foliage.

Now most of us do not have access to the manpower or money that Disney has to change out our homes seasonally, but there are small changes that we can all make to keep our landscapes looking fresh and seasonally appropriate.  Here are a few suggestions for fall that should take about an hour to complete.

So simple and just right for fall

                                                    





1-Pumpkins: Head to the grocery store and pick up some of those pumpkins they have on sale in the big bins. Place a grouping of pumpkins out next to your front door.  Uncarved pumpkins can last for weeks, and if you like, you can use the same pumpkins for your Halloween Jack-o-lanterns.

Elegant look that cannot be any easier.  

2-Mums:  Here's another no-planting-required upgrade. While you are at the grocery store pick up a couple of mums.  You can use these to place in a planter next to your door or just place them wherever you like.  Keep in mind that mums don't re-bloom (or they never have for me) so buy one that is about to bloom and toss them when the blooms are spent.  If I buy mums I typically buy a set a few days before Halloween and another set right before Thanksgiving (but only if I'm hosting).

Purple fountain grass and pansies

3-Containers: For fall containers there is nothing I like more than grasses.  I love the exotic look of purple millet coupled with bright orange or white pansies.  If you can't find millet then purple fountain grass is a good substitute.  Pink muhley grass and pennisetum 'little bunny' are also great for containers.

Purple Majesty Millet

There are other wonderful plants for fall including: ornamental cabbage and kale. Both the cabbage and kale are annuals so use sparingly.  If you can find it 'autumn joy' sedum, is a great choice to add to a perennial bed or container.

Pansies: Do not attempt a bed this large 

4-Planter Beds: If you want to add a small amount of color to your beds for fall my favorite has always been pansies and violas.  They come in an endless variety of colors and if you plant them at just the right time they should give you beautiful blooms late into the winter or early spring.  Happy planting!