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The fall is a wonderful time to get out and garden. The cooler temperatures beckon many people back outside to enjoy the weather before it gets too cold. Although many people stop gardening around this time, there are numerous plants that are perfect for a fall garden, adding color and texture to any landscape. Beginners will welcome the easy maintenance of the following plants and flowers.

Fall Gardening in The PNW

Fall Mums

Mums are probably one of the most popular fall flowers. Their cheerful, fluffy blooms come in a wide assortment of colors, so gardeners can pick and choose shades that complement their surrounding landscape. These flowers are considered an annual or a fleeting perennial. Favorite colors include yellow, gold, rust, red, orange, pink and white. Plant in partial to full sun in well-draining soil for best results. Be careful not to over-water mums, and only give them a drink when they appear thirsty or once every two to three days.

Mums are perfect for borders, flower gardens, entryways or even as a container plant showcased in a hanging basket. The abundance of varieties ensures the gardener is never short of selection.

Fall and Cold Hardy Greens

Fall vegetable gardening is much easier than people make it out to be. Several cold weather vegetables can be successfully grown in containers or in square-foot gardens. Favorites include broccoli, cabbage and lettuce.

Lettuce comes in a wide variety of colors, textures and tastes. Popular types include leafy green, romaine and red lettuce. Lettuce can be used not only for fresh culinary delights but also for added interest in the garden. Lettuce is a shade tolerant vegetable, so it makes a great vegetable for those otherwise barren parts of the garden.

Broccoli is a hardy vegetable that adds wonderful texture to a garden. Varieties include cruiser, green comet and green goliath. Plant in a container or in partial shade. After the head develops, harvest broccoli by cutting the central head along with five or so inches of stem.

There are several types of cabbage the fall gardener can plant depending on his or her taste and landscaping preferences. Cabbage heads are very diverse. They can either be rounded, pointed or flat and come in many shades like green, red and purple. The most popular varieties are the green, red and savory cabbage. Well draining, but moist soil is essential for optimal cabbage growth and harvesting.

From mums to leafy greens, there are several plants suitable for the fall gardeners seeking easy maintenance and seasonal beauty. Keep in mind most fall plants do well until the first frost, and some may even linger for several frosts until winter has finally taken hold. By planting fall flowers and vegetables, the garden will continue to delight its visitors despite the end of the summer sun.