Autumn Planting Ideas: Best Plants and Planters for September and October

Autumn Planting Ideas: Best Plants and Planters for September and October

As the days get shorter and the air turns crisp, late September and October are still perfect months for adding colour, texture, and life to your garden. Whether you’re working with pots, planters, or garden beds, autumn planting can extend your growing season and keep your outdoor space vibrant well into winter.

Here’s our guide to the best plants to grow in late autumn, along with tips on pots, planters, and vertical solutions to make your garden look stylish and stay practical.

Photo by Lilia Bondarenko on Unsplash

1. Seasonal Flowers for Autumn Colour

  • Chrysanthemums – Classic autumn blooms that add rich yellows, reds, and purples.

  • Asters – Perfect for late-season pollinators and long-lasting colour.

  • Ornamental Kale & Cabbage – Hardy, decorative, and ideal for borders or pots.

Planting tip: Use the Cleo Planter with Wheels D40cm, Grey for easy mobility. Made from recycled plastics, it’s perfect for moving your plants to capture the best light or shelter from early frosts. The wheels make it practical, while the eco-friendly design supports sustainability.

 

Photo by Anna Evans on Unsplash

2. Herbs and Winter Vegetables

  • Garlic & Shallots – Plant now for harvest next summer.

  • Winter Lettuce & Spinach – Hardy varieties thrive in cooler weather.

  • Parsley & Chives – Perennials that continue to produce into winter.

Potting tip: Herbs and smaller vegetables work beautifully in the Outdoor Galvanised Rope Handle Trough Set of Two. Their modern rustic style adds character to patios or terraces, and having two sizes allows for layered planting or contrasting heights for visual interest.

Photo by Evie Fjord on Unsplash

3. Climbers and Vertical Planting

For those looking to add height, privacy, or architectural interest, autumn is a great time to plant climbers like:

  • Ivy – Hardy and evergreen for winter coverage.

  • Clematis – Plant root systems now to bloom in spring.

  • Winter Honeysuckle – Fragrant flowers even in colder months.

Vertical planting solution: The Outdoor Honeycomb Trellis Zinc Large is perfect for supporting climbing plants while adding texture and character to your garden. It also doubles as a privacy screen, making it a practical and stylish choice for smaller outdoor spaces.

 

4. Tips for Autumn Planting Success

  • Check soil drainage – Raised planters and pots prevent water-logging in wetter autumn months.

  • Layer up – Combine tall plants with trailing varieties for visual depth.

  • Protect tender plants – Move mobile planters like the Cleo Planter indoors or to a sheltered spot during early frosts.

  • Add mulch – Keep soil temperature stable and retain moisture.


5. Combine Style and Function

The right planters and planting solutions don’t just house your plants — they enhance your outdoor space:

With these additions, your garden can stay vibrant, practical, and visually appealing throughout the autumn months.

 

🌿 Shop autumn planters and garden accessories at RAKE Online: rakeonline.co.uk
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