Fall-Blooming Perennials for Ohio: Asters, Mums, Kale, and More

To bridge the gap when daylilies fade in Ohio (Zone 5–6), plant these frost-tolerant perennials for August–November color.

Top Picks

• New England asters (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) – purple, pink, white; 3–5 ft; pollinator magnets.
• Garden chrysanthemums – choose hardy cultivars (not florist mums); plant by July for root establishment.
• Ornamental kale/cabbage – rosettes of purple, white, green; color intensifies with frost.
• Johnny-jump-ups (Viola tricolor) – self-sowing, edible flowers, bloom till hard freeze.
• Viola cornuta – perennial tufts, fragrant, long bloom.

Planting Tip

Install in early September, water well, mulch. They'll root before frost and return bigger next year.

Mix heights and textures for a dynamic fall display.