The hot days in August always seem to take summer annuals to a point of exhaustion. Have you ever thought about swapping out your summer annuals for fall annuals? Here are some ways to incorporate some fall color in a cost-friendly way.
Tip: The Thriller, Filler, Spiller is a great technique to use, making sure you have a container that makes the eye travel from plant to plant.
When you have a lot of green plants to choose from, there are still ways to add that pop of color and unique flare to your container. The bright green foliage of the millet contrasts and adds depth against the dark maroon leaf of the celosia.
Tip: It also helps to pick one or two brightly colored flowers, like the zinnia, to stand out from the grass and trailing vine tones. Choosing more than two can create a busy container.
Something to consider: There are some plants that play dual roles. For example, the grass fills out nicely and will cascade slightly over the edge of the container, acting as a filler and a spiller.
Thriller: Ornamental millet and celosia
Filler: Pink zinnia and variegated Swedish ivy
Spiller: Sedge grass and tricolor sweet potato vine
—Contributed by Christina Timm, Lynde Greenhouse
