Horticulturist's List: 7 Plants to be Potted in September - Perennials, Grasses, and Ferns for an Instant Burst of Color and Joy in Autumn Gardens

Bring a burst of colour and joy to your pots and containers this season with a selection of hardy perennials that thrive in the late summer months. Here are some top picks to extend your garden's seasonal interest.

Violas, particularly the vibrant 'Tiger Eye' variety, are perfect for adding a touch of cheer to your pots. These delightful plants prefer full sun but can manage in part shade, making them versatile additions to any garden. For a darker look, consider purple pansies, available now via Amazon.

Heuchera, or coral bells, are another excellent choice for those seeking plants that can thrive in darker spots or shady pot displays. One of the favourite varieties is 'Fire Chief', which glows red in the fall months. Heuchera plants, including 'Fire Chief', are available from Amazon.

Rudbeckia, native to North America, is a low-maintenance plant that offers a splash of colour in late summer. 'Henry Eilers' is one of the best rudbeckias with thin, spidery yellow flowers. This hardy variety is suitable for zones 4 and 4, and grows best in a sunny spot with good watering during dry spells. Live Rudbeckia plants can be purchased from Amazon.

Autumn fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) is an evergreen fern that is suitable for the fall season. It prefers dappled shade and a spot that stays damp, making it an ideal addition to shady containers. This hardy plant is hardy down to zone 5. Live Autumn fern plants are available via Amazon.

In September, consider planting autumn-flowering plants such as chrysanthemums, asters, and winter pansies in your containers to extend the garden's seasonal interest.

Mexican feather grass (Nassella tenuissima) is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in poor soil and prefers full sun. It is hardy down to zone 7.

Japanese anemones, specifically the 'Honorine Jobert' variety, have white flowers and are hardy down to US hardiness zone 4. While they are considered an invasive perennial in the wrong location, they are elegant and containable in pots. 'Honorine Jobert' Japanese anemone live plants are available now via Amazon.

Monkey grass, or Liriope muscari, is a reliable and steadfast evergreen plant hardy from zone 5 to 10. It prefers full shade or dappled sun and has purple flowers that emerge in summer, sometimes lasting into October. Live monkey grass plants are available now via Amazon.

For those seeking a stylish planter to house their late summer perennials, the 'Myrtlewood Planter' by Gracia Oaks is a perfect choice. This planter is ideal for growing colourful late summer perennials.

Most of the container plants mentioned can be moved out into the yard come spring, making them a versatile choice for gardeners seeking to extend their gardening season.