October is a month of beautiful colours and crisp autumnal air, and one of the most striking sights is the array of flowers that bloom during this time.
From delicate daisies to bold chrysanthemums, October flowers are a wonderful way to celebrate the changing seasons.
Understanding October Flowers
One of the most popular colours for October flowers is red.

Red Hot Poker
Red flowers, like the Red Hot Poker and the Red Dahlia, add a vibrant splash of colour to any garden or bouquet.
Pink and white flowers are also common in October, with blooms like the Pink Chrysanthemum and the White Cosmos adding a touch of elegance.
Yellow and purple flowers are also prevalent in October.
The Yellow Marigold and the Purple Aster are both stunning flowers that can add a pop of colour to any garden or bouquet.
Orange and gold flowers are also popular, with blooms like the Orange Zinnia and the Gold Marigold adding warmth and depth.
Marigolds
One of the most iconic October flowers is the marigold.
With its vibrant orange and yellow petals, the marigold is a symbol of warmth and friendship.

It’s also believed to have healing properties and is often used in traditional medicine.
Whether you’re planting them in your garden or giving them as a gift, marigolds are a cheerful addition to any autumnal landscape.
Aster
Another popular October flower is the aster.

This really must be one of the best blooms of autumn.
I love their colours, and their ability to attract pollinating insects well into the shorter autumn days.
These dainty flowers come in a range of colours, from pink and purple to white and blue, and are often associated with love and patience.
They’re also a favourite of bees and butterflies, making them a great choice for anyone looking to attract pollinators to their garden.
Black-Eyed Susan
When it comes to the shape of October flowers, many have daisy-like petals.
These flowers, like the Black-Eyed Susan and the Shasta Daisy, have a classic beauty that never goes out of style.

Other flowers, like the Spider Chrysanthemum and the Cockscomb, have unique and interesting shapes that can add a touch of whimsy to any arrangement.
Popular October Flowers
Types of Dahlias
Dahlias are a popular flower in October due to their vibrant colours and variety of shapes.
They come in many different sizes, from small pom-poms to giant dinner-plate blooms.
Dahlias really are very rewarding to grow, plus they make excellent cut flowers.
They also come in a range of colours, including pink, purple, red, white and yellow.
Some popular varieties of dahlias include the Bishop of Llandaff, the Karma series, and the Decorative series.
Chrysanthemums
Chrysanthemums are another popular flower in October.
They are known for their large, showy blooms and come in a variety of colours, including yellow, gold, red, and pink.
I would recommend starting these off as plug plants in a greenhouse of cold frame before planting them out into your borders, because they can be a bit tricky to get established.
Some popular varieties of chrysanthemums include the Spider Mum, the Pom Pom Mum, and the Button Mum.
Planting and Maintenance
Planting in October
October is the perfect time to plant autumn-flowering bulbs such as crocuses, daffodils, and tulips.

Crocuses
These bulbs will bloom in the spring and add a pop of colour to your garden.
It’s also a good time to sow seeds of hardy annuals such as sweet peas and wallflowers, which will provide colour in early summer.
Caring for October Flowers
To keep your October flowers looking their best, make sure to water them regularly, especially during dry spells.
Deadhead regularly to encourage more blooms, and feed with a balanced fertiliser to promote healthy growth.
If your plants need support, use stakes or other supports to prevent them from falling over.
Prune back any dead or damaged foliage to keep your plants looking neat and tidy.
Preparing for Winter
As winter approaches, it’s important to prepare your garden for the colder weather.
Make sure to lift any tender bulbs such as dahlias and gladioli, and store them in a cool, dry place over winter. (Click here to learn how to protect delicate plants during winter)
Protect your plants from frost by covering them with horticultural fleece or other protective material. Watering less frequently will also help prevent frost damage.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your October flowers thrive and provide colour and interest in your garden throughout the year.
Planning Your October Garden
October is a wonderful time to plant flowers in your garden.
Planning is key to a successful garden, and there are a few things to consider when planning your October garden.
Firstly, it’s important to choose flowers that are suitable for the climate in your area.
October can be a chilly month, so it’s important to choose flowers that can tolerate cooler temperatures.
Some popular October flowers include pansies, chrysanthemums, and asters.

Pansies
When selecting flowers, it’s also important to consider the amount of sunlight your garden receives.
Some flowers require full sun, while others prefer partial shade. Be sure to choose flowers that will thrive in the amount of sunlight your garden receives.
One flower that is particularly well-suited to an October garden is the nerine bowdenii.
This beautiful flower blooms in shades of pink and red, and is known for its long-lasting blooms.
It’s a great choice for adding interest to your garden during the autumn months.
In summary, planning is key to a successful October garden. Choose flowers that are suitable for the climate in your area, consider the amount of sunlight your garden receives.
With a little bit of thought, you can create a beautiful and thriving October garden.
Frequently Asked Questions


These flowers are great for adding colour and interest to your garden during the colder months.
I hope you have enjoyed reading my article about October flowers, and that you will choose some of the best blooms of autumn for your garden.
Let’s connect!
I would love you to send me some photos of your garden, so that I can feature them here on my website.
Please send your photos to : christinefoley75@yahoo.com, and reference them ‘October flowers.’
That would be awesome!!
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