These plants add color to gardens and pots when summer flowers fade

As summer flowers begin to wane, gardeners can add a pop of color to their gardens and containers with a variety of plants. One such plant is Sedum Autumn Joy, which transitions from green flowers in spring to a pinkish hue, darkening to a maroon shade by mid-fall. This hardy perennial thrives in zones 3-9 and offers seasonal color from early spring to fall.

For those seeking a change of pace, mums can be planted at the front of beds, providing a range of autumnal hues including orange, rust, bronze, yellow, pink, purple, and white. These plants should be left in place, as they will regrow year after year, providing effortless fall charm.

The firecracker plant (Cuphea) is another attractive option, boasting striking orange flowers that hummingbirds adore. This heat-tolerant plant is hardy in zones 8-11, making it an excellent choice for warmer regions. While it is typically treated as an annual in cooler areas, fall plantings can also yield beautiful results. Pair it with lantana, fountain grass, coral bells, globe amaranth, or calibrachoa for a vibrant container display.

For those looking to add some visual interest with foliage, croton is an option. Although it's often considered a tropical houseplant, it can also be used in fall arrangements, particularly in containers and bedding plants. Its large, green leaves are marked with yellow and orange veins, providing an eye-catching contrast against other plants.