Autumn at The Garden Center
In May, sometimes even earlier, everyone rushes out to get their fresh annuals and vegetable starters so they have a chance to enjoy Chicago’s short growing season. When the end of summer approaches, and the season comes to an end, flashy annuals like geraniums and petunias are exchanged for more cold hardy plants, herbs, and vegetables. Neon green potato vine takes a backseat to dark ivy, golden mums, and orange pumpkins.
We might miss the bright hues of summer found in verbena, petunias, and coleus, but the approach of autumn doesn’t mean our gardens have to be bare and boring. Cold hardy pansies, lavender, and rainbow swiss chard provide warm and vibrant colors to any garden, as do gourds, pumpkins, hay bales, and cornstalks. These and more can all be found at your local garden center in Chicago – Farmers Market Garden Center.
Garden and Decor Options
Just because temperatures begin to drop, doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to gardening, at least not yet. Before the first hard freeze hits Chicagoland, there are plenty of fall foliage and autumnal accents to be found for those of us who aren’t quite ready to surrender to the cold. Some of these will even stand up to light frost which often precedes a couple more weeks of warm weather. .
As September approaches, it’s time to switch out our summer annuals for mums, ornamental peppers, and eucalyptus. These plants are just as full and vibrant as their summer counterparts, but unlike the warm-weather annuals, they thrive in cooler temperatures. Multi-color pansies and small perennials like heuchera will keep your garden looking lush and beautiful through the autumn months – and let’s not forget to plant those spring bulbs while you’re planting your fall favorites! When March rolls around, you’ll be glad you did!
Another great option for fall plantings are cold hardy vegetables. Once summer is over, you can still plant and harvest garden fresh kale, cabbage, swiss chard, and more to extend your supply of healthy, garden-grown greens. Who doesn’t love fresh veggies in their salad or a tasty autumn stew?
You can also plant cold hardy herbs during the fall, such as mint, lavender, thyme, and sage. These herbs will not only add color and fullness to your garden, but they can be harvested for seasoning fall dishes, tea, baked goods, and even hanging around your home for some DIY aromatherapy.
Finally, if you are looking for rich, vibrant color, pick up a few pumpkins, seasonal corn stalks, or yellow hay bales. These fall favorites are a sure way to add beauty and variety to your garden, patio, front porch, and other outdoor spaces. You can also pick up a carving kit or two and turn your pumpkins into jack-o-lanterns with the kids- or just with a friend! No one said adults can’t spend an afternoon carving pumpkins.
Finally, at Farmers Market – Chicago’s Garden Center, you will also find an assortment of fall decor, such as scarecrows, mini gourds, indian corn, cement pumpkins, owl statuary, and more. When it comes to fall, and the holidays associated with this time of the year, we offer everything you need to brighten your home and garden.
Fall Necessities at Farmers Market
Where can you find cold hardy annuals, herbs, veggies, and all your autumn supplies in Chicago? Look no further than Farmers Market Garden Center, located on Elston Avenue just north of Irving Park. We make adding color and life to your garden easy, and if you have any questions our knowledgeable staff will be happy to help. Stop in today, call, or shoot us an email!
Phone: 773-539-1200
Email: fmgc@gardenchicago.com
