Color fall gardens with summer containers – by Diane Morey Sitton
Despite the challenge of container gardening in Texas in late-summer, when the heat is stifling and there’s either too much rain or no rain at all, many colorful container plants can be carried-over from summer until late fall to continue providing color, fragrance, and interest to decks, courtyards, porches, and patios. In fact, with a little extra care, some summer favorites can thrive — so don’t give up on them now.
Start by evaluating the container’s exposure to direct sunlight. Generally, container-grown plants appreciate morning sun and afternoon shade, especially this time of year. To insulate roots from intense heat and sunlight, select a light-colored pot that reflects heat, or place the pot inside a larger pot, and then add a layer of moss or soil in between. If a plant repeatedly wilts, begins to show scorched blotches on foliage, drops leaves, or shows other signs of stress, move it to a shady location until temperatures cool. If the container is cumbersome or too heavy to move, protect it with shade cloth or a garden umbrella, or install a shade sail over that portion of the garden.
Hydration is key when temperatures soar. Water deeply to help plants develop strong root systems. Avoid soaking the foliage. When possible, water early in the morning to give plants a head start against the heat of the day. Small containers dry out quickly, so give them extra water as needed to keep plants healthy. And remember, container-grown plants benefit from mulch, especially if the soil’s surface is directly exposed to sunlight.
Grooming is another way to help plants beat the heat. Encourage repeated blooms by snipping off fading flowers. Remove dead, damaged, and diseased foliage. Make sure the plant isn’t root bound. Remove unwanted volunteers that spring up in the pot. Resist the urge to “treat” heat stress with fertilizer, especially if you’ve applied a slow-release fertilizer earlier in the season.
Summer need not fade into fall. The array of colorful container plants capable of a showy fall rally is there for the taking. Beauties such as geranium, hibiscus, lantana, pentas, and verbena can help you celebrate the season with their colorful, butterfly-luring blooms. Canna, croton, and sweet potato vine invigorate fall with vibrant foliage.
So don’t give up now. Put on your garden gloves, and grab the watering can. The days are getting shorter … it won’t be long. After all, it’s almost fall, you’ll all.