As the days grow shorter and the air takes on that familiar autumn crispness, fall offers gardeners a final moment of magic. While many think of it as the season to wind down, seasoned gardeners know that fall is one of the best times to plant—and to prepare for an abundance of blooms you can cut and enjoy both now and next spring.
At Heirloom Boulevard, we believe the garden is more than a place—it’s a sanctuary of beauty and generosity. These five fall flowers are perfect for those who love to grow, gather, and gift nature’s treasures.
1. Chrysanthemums (Mums)
The quintessential fall flower, chrysanthemums fill the garden with warmth just as the trees begin to turn. Their dense, colorful blooms in shades of amber, rust, and rose are ideal for late-season picking.
Why we love them: Mums symbolize longevity and joy—a meaningful bloom to gift or display.
Planting tip: Choose hardy perennial mums and plant in well-draining soil with full sun. They’ll reward you with years of vibrant color.
Photo by: By Stanislav Doronenko - Own work, CC BY-SA 2.5
2. Snapdragons
Elegant yet whimsical, snapdragons thrive in cool weather and bring striking vertical structure to bouquets. Their pastel hues and intricate petals make them an autumn standout.
Why we love them: Snapdragons have an old-world charm and are wonderfully long-lasting as cut flowers.
Planting tip: Start from nursery plants or seeds and keep soil moist but not waterlogged. They flourish in sunny spots.
Photo by: By Craig Franklin - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
3. Cosmos
Light, feathery, and effortlessly graceful, cosmos continue to bloom right into fall. Their delicate petals sway with every breeze and look beautiful in rustic or minimalist arrangements.
Why we love them: They add a soft, romantic touch to any bouquet and practically grow themselves.
Planting tip: Direct sow seeds in full sun and cut frequently to encourage new blooms.
photo by: By Dick Culbert from Gibsons, B.C., Canada - Cosmos bipinnatus, a wild Cosmos, CC BY 2.0
4. Asters
When most of the garden fades, asters rise to the occasion. These late bloomers offer a burst of purples, pinks, and blues just when your garden needs it most.
Why we love them: Asters attract pollinators and bring life to the garden even in the cool months.
Planting tip: Give them full sun and well-draining soil. Divide plants every few years to keep them robust and thriving.
Photo by: By Hectonichus - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
5. Sunflowers
Few flowers capture the heart of autumn like the sunflower. While often associated with summer, certain varieties such as Autumn Beauty and Moulin Rouge thrive in early fall planting and bloom in deep, earthy tones.
Why we love them: Their radiant faces brighten any space, and their symbolism of gratitude makes them a perfect seasonal gift.
Planting tip: Sow seeds directly into the soil in full sun, and water deeply to establish strong roots before frost.
Photo by: By Fir0002 - Own work, GFDL 1.2
A Thought to Grow On
Autumn is more than an ending—it’s a gentle invitation to plant for the future. By choosing blooms that thrive in cooler months, you create not only a vibrant fall garden but also a source of joy that extends indoors through every arrangement and gift.
Whether you’re cutting a handful of mums for the table or gifting a freshly gathered bouquet to a friend, these flowers remind us that beauty, like the seasons, is ever-renewing.
