From the Potting Bench: Fall Container Design Ideas

As summer fades into fall, Buffalo gardeners know to make the most of the beautiful weeks ahead. Your container plantings likely need a refresh—whether a few replacements or a complete makeover—to look their best for the coming months.

This week we're featuring two fresh designs from the potting bench. First, a window box arrangement centered on a purple chrysanthemum just beginning to show color, ensuring weeks of blooms. It's paired with ornamental peppers 'Black Pearl' and 'Calico' (both Capsicum) offering purple foliage and fruit, plus a polka-dot plant (Hypoestes) with pink-spotted leaves for subtle contrast. This simple, elegant planting will carry the box through the season.

Our second creation fills a large terra cotta pot with vibrant yellows and reds. Chrysanthemum 'Brilliant Tiffany Yellow' anchors the center, surrounded by annual 'Gold Dust' spilling over the edge, vibrant red-orange 'Bonfire' begonias, and whimsical ornamental eggplants (Solanum) 'Golden Eggs' and 'Pumpkin on a Stick'. Bright red and yellow hot pepper plants flank the mum, evoking harvest and Halloween vibes. It's a fun, festive display that celebrates the season.

Stop by Urban Roots to see these designs in person and get expert advice for your own fall containers.