For many plant lovers, autumn is a season of contrasts. On the one hand, they provide a respite from the stifling heat and watering schedules but, on the other hand, they somehow mark the end of the growth cycle for many of the plants we have at home. What there is no doubt is that, at the same time, autumn offers a perfect opportunity to grow a wide variety of plants, both in the garden and inside the home, which in summer would be somewhat more complicated.
In this article we will explore some of the most iconic and easy plants to grow in autumn, both ornamental and edible, so that you can make the most of this season and continue enjoying them even when the good weather ends.
The most autumnal plants
As the days get shorter and temperatures begin to drop, many plant species find the ideal environment to develop at this time. Among the most popular plants that you can grow this season are those that tolerate (or like) somewhat different conditions:
- Cooler temperatures: Summer does not suit many of the plants we like.
- Lower requirement in irrigation: When it is less hot, your water demand will be lower, which will make you happier.
- Low lighting: Many plants grow well with fewer hours of light.
- A break from the pests: especially outdoors, the cycle of phytopathogens ends, so the plant will have fewer visitors from these friendly little bugs.
- Flowering (and fruiting) thanks to short days.
Chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum spp.)
Chrysanthemums are known as the flower of autumn, with a stunning array of colors including yellow, orange and purple. They appear at the best time, since when almost everything seems to end, these plants take center stage in the garden. They are appreciated not only for the countless flowers they obtain, but also for their resistance to cold, which allows them to bloom even in cool temperatures. Perfect for areas where other plants would be difficult to grow.
- Lightning: Direct sunlight or semi-shade. To bloom in all their glory, they need at least 5-6 hours of sunlight a day.
- Minimum temperature: They tolerate up to 0°C, but prefer temperatures between 10°C and 20°C.
- Final size: Varies between 30 and 90 cm in height, depending on the variety.
- Common problems: Root rot due to excess water, mildew, and mites.
Aster (Aster spp.)
Asters are perennials that brighten the garden with daisy-like flowers in shades of blue, purple and white. They bloom in late summer and fall, providing a colorful spectacle when many other plants have finished their cycle. In addition, they are cold resistant and attract pollinators, such as butterflies and bees, to your balcony. Plus point for a garden with extra biodiversity.
- Lightning: Direct sunlight or semi-shade. They require good light to bloom abundantly.
- Minimum temperature: They withstand up to -6°C, they are quite resistant to cold.
- Final size: From 30 cm to 1 meter high, depending on the species.
- Common problems: Gray mold (botrytis), mildew, and root rot from excess moisture.
Clivia (Clivia miniata)
Clivia is a bulbous, robust and easy-care plant. It is famous for its striking orange and yellow flowers that appear in spring, although it can also bloom in autumn. Although it does not always flower, its dense, evergreen foliage offers visual appeal throughout the year. It is the perfect plant to place in a (very bright) corner of the living room, in the hall or under the shade of an outside porch.
- Lightning: It tolerates the sun well, although better in the shade (well lit) so that it shows that characteristic dark green.
- Minimum temperature: They prefer temperatures between 10°C and 20°C, and can withstand brief drops to 5°C.
- Final size: From 30 to 60 cm high.
- Common problems: Lack of flowering due to lack of light or temperature
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
Spinach is a short-cycle plant that can be easily grown at home during the fall, either grown in a small planter or directly in the ground, even better. It grows well in cool climates and produces nutritious leaves in just a few weeks. The good thing about this type of plants is that you can consume them “à la carte”, cutting leaves little by little without having to uproot the plant.
- Lightning: Direct sunlight or semi-shade.
- Minimum temperature: It tolerates temperatures down to 0°C, but grows best between 7°C and 20°C.
- Final size: Grows up to 30 cm tall.
- Common problems: Root rot, mold and pests such as aphids and snails.
Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. cicla)
Although a priori its popularity is less sexy than spinach, chard is a resistant vegetable that grows well in almost any location and conditions. In addition to being easy to grow, its short cycle allows for quick harvests. It is best not to wait too long to cut the leaves, since if they are too hard, their flavor will be more bitter.
- Lightning: It needs direct sunlight or semi-shade.
- Minimum temperature: Resistant up to 4°C, but grows best between 10°C and 25°C.
- Final size: It can grow up to 60 cm in height.
- Common problems: Slugs, snails, and mildew.
Mizuna (Brassica rapa var. nipposinica)
Mizuna is a Japanese green leaf with a slightly spicy flavor, ideal for salads, stir-fried dishes and curious palates. It grows quickly and adapts well to cool climates and fall conditions. In addition, mizuna has the ability to resprout quickly after each harvest, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the season. Simply cutting the leaves a few inches off the ground will encourage new growth, providing a constant supply of fresh leaves.
- Lightning: Prefers direct sunlight or semi-shade.
- Minimum temperature: It grows best in cool temperatures, between 5°C and 15°C.
- Final size: Reaches up to 30 cm in height.
- Common problems: Aphids and caterpillars.
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