Every fall, my friends keep asking me how my yard looks so pretty when the leaves change.
Want to know my secret? It’s these five trees and bushes that put on the best show in town!
I’m finally sharing my go-to plants that make my yard look like it belongs in a magazine.
Top 5 Plants for Autumn Display
1. Ginkgo
I fell in love with Ginkgo trees during a trip to our local botanical garden. The sight of those fan-shaped leaves turning brilliant gold literally stopped me in my tracks!
These ancient beauties can grow impressively tall (up to 40 meters), so I’d recommend thinking carefully about placement. Trust me on this one – I learned the hard way with my first Ginkgo!
Here’s a pro-mom tip: opt for a male tree. The females produce fruits that, while pretty, smell like yesterday’s forgotten gym socks (as my kids love to point out).
2. Barberry
Looking for a low-maintenance showstopper? Barberry is your new best friend!
I planted these along our driveway three years ago, and they’ve been the definition of “plant it and forget it.” No watering schedule to remember between soccer practice and piano lessons!
The Japanese varieties in my garden turn the most gorgeous orange-red in fall, while my golden variety glows like sunshine. The red berries are an added bonus that attract beautiful birds to our yard.
3. Witch Hazel
Let me tell you about my absolute favorite fall bloomer – Witch Hazel!
While everything else in the garden is winding down, this magical shrub is just getting started. Its spider-web-like flowers are simply enchanting.
My kids love checking on it after the first frost, when the blooms look like tiny yellow fireworks against the snow.
4. Japanese Maple
If you’re looking for the perfect focal point in your garden, Japanese Maple is it!
Mine started as a small patio tree, and it’s now the crown jewel of our backyard. The leaves transform into the most incredible shades of crimson and orange every fall.
What I love most about these trees is their versatility – they come in so many sizes and shapes. Whether you have a tiny courtyard or sprawling yard, there’s a Japanese Maple that’s perfect for your space.
5. Virginia Creeper
Want to know my secret weapon for transforming boring walls and fences? Virginia Creeper!
This vigorous vine has turned our plain garage wall into a stunning vertical garden. The transformation from summer green to deep crimson in fall is absolutely breathtaking.
As a budget-conscious mom, I love that it’s basically maintenance-free. Plus, it acts as a natural air conditioner, keeping our house cooler in summer – a welcome bonus for our energy bills!
The best part? It grows so quickly that my kids can actually watch it climb throughout the season. It’s like having our own living science experiment!