As summer transitions to autumn, September is the perfect time to refresh your landscape with plants that will provide vibrant fall colors. At Pennsylvania Lawn & Landscape, we know how to design and maintain beautiful outdoor spaces that showcase the season’s best hues. If you’re looking to enhance your property with fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep oranges, here’s how to get started.

1. Choose the Right Trees and Shrubs

The foundation of a colorful fall landscape starts with selecting the right trees and shrubs. Some of the best choices for Pennsylvania include:

• Sugar Maple & Red Maple – Known for their stunning orange and red foliage.
• Oak Trees – Provide rich brown and russet tones in the fall.
• Burning Bush – Turns a brilliant red, adding contrast to your yard.
• Dogwood & Sumac – Offer a mix of red and purple hues.

Planting these in September allows their roots to establish before winter, ensuring they thrive come spring.

2. Add Late-Blooming Perennials

Keep your garden colorful even as temperatures drop by including fall-blooming perennials such as:

• Chrysanthemums – A classic autumn flower that comes in a variety of fall colors.
• Asters – Provide bursts of purple, pink, and blue well into the fall.
• Goldenrod – Offers cheerful yellow flowers that attract pollinators.

These plants not only bring seasonal beauty but also support bees and butterflies preparing for winter.

3. Enhance with Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses add movement and texture to your landscape. Some great choices for Pennsylvania include:

• Switchgrass – Turns a warm golden fall color.
• Little Bluestem – Features copper and red tones that last through winter.
• Fountain Grass – Offers soft, feathery plumes that sway with the breeze.

These grasses are low-maintenance and provide year-round interest.

4. Mulch and Prepare Your Soil

Before planting, it’s important to prepare your soil for success. Adding mulch to your garden beds helps:

• Retain moisture as temperatures fluctuate.
• Insulate plant roots from early frosts.
• Suppress weeds and enhance soil health.

A 2-3 inch layer of mulch around new plants can make all the difference in their growth and longevity.

5. Keep Up with Fall Watering

Many people assume that plants need less water in the fall, but new plantings still require consistent moisture.

• Water deeply at least once a week, especially during dry spells.
• Avoid overwatering, as cooler temperatures slow down evaporation.
• Monitor rainfall and supplement watering as needed to establish strong roots.

6. Incorporate Cool-Weather Annuals

To keep flower beds lively, add hardy annuals such as:

• Pansies & Violas – These colorful blooms can withstand early frosts.
• Ornamental Kale & Cabbage – Provide striking foliage in purple, green, and white.

These plants will keep your garden looking fresh well into November.

Let Pennsylvania Lawn & Landscape Bring Fall Colors to Life

Creating a breathtaking fall landscape takes careful planning, and Pennsylvania Lawn & Landscape is here to help. Whether you need expert advice on plant selection, professional landscape installation, or seasonal maintenance, our team has the knowledge and experience to transform your outdoor space.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get your property ready for autumn! Embrace the season with fall colors and well-planned landscape that enhances your home’s curb appeal and creates a welcoming outdoor environment. Let’s make this fall your most beautiful yet!