If yourfall containersare looking more faded than festive, don’t worrythere’s hope.

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A variety of textures, colors, heights, plant types, and growth habits are your best bet.

Fall planter in a rustic container.

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“Gardeners should choose the correct size container to accommodate plants' root systems,” says Sons.

Without adequate space, plants can become overcrowded and compete for nutrients from the soil.

They could also become potbound, limiting growth and contributing to a dull, lackluster appearance.

fall window box

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Without sufficient water, fall container plantings can wilt, dry out, or even die.

Consistent watering will help your plantings thrive and can even help insulate delicate root systems during a freeze.

“Remember to continue watering your outdoor plants daily.”

fall container plantings with chrysanthemums and gourds

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Leaving Dead Blooms in Place

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Deadheadingisn’t only for summer flowers.

Cutting off dead or fading blooms is a must for making sure your fall container plants look their best.

“Gardeners should deadhead spent blooms and prune when needed,” says Sons.

gloved hands potting fall chrysanthemums in window boxes

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Keep in mind that there are reasons to leave some spent flower heads on your fall container plantings.

To Deadhead or Not?

Your Final Answer Is…, Penn State Extension.

fall container plantings with watering can

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person deadheading a plant

The Spruce / Kara Riley