Happy Friday, garden enthusiasts! As another productive week comes to a close, gardeners across the Midwest are facing an undeniable reality: the fleeting warmth of summer has officially yielded to the crisp, invigorating air of autumn. While the shift in seasons marks a bittersweet end to the primary growing season in colder climates, it also heralds the arrival of a vibrant seasonal spectacle. Before winter reclaims the landscape, nature puts on a breathtaking show of changing leaves, and dedicated horticulturists find fresh ways to keep their outdoor spaces alive with rich color.
While many gardeners might assume that seasonal displays wind down alongside the dropping temperatures, experienced container designers know that autumn offers an entirely unique palette to work with. Few professionals command this craft quite like Howard, a seasoned Chicago-based container designer who has spent nearly four decades perfecting the art of seasonal displays. Known for previously sharing his striking spring container creations and imaginative Halloween installations with garden lovers, Howard is back with an entirely new collection of autumn containers designed for a residential project in Glencoe, Illinois, situated firmly in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
The latest portfolio of work highlights the sophisticated use of cold-hardy annuals, textured foliage, and sculptural elements that elevate traditional autumn curb appeal. In one standout display, a large, classic urn is generously filled with a robust foundation of ornamental cabbage and kale (Brassica oleracea cvs.). While these ruffled structural annuals form the bulk of the arrangement, the true focal points are the unexpected clusters of deep burgundy berries that weave through the display. These elements are further enhanced by twisting woody stems, introducing a touch of organic whimsy that successfully ties the entire composition together.
The surrounding hardscape plays an essential role in how these designs function within the broader landscape. At the Glencoe property, earthy terracotta containers and weathered rectangular planters are thoughtfully positioned to complement the historical stonework beneath them. In close proximity, meticulously clipped boxwood topiaries (Buxus sempervirens, Zones 5–8) provide a formal, evergreen backdrop that makes the ruffled, varied textures of the ornamental cabbage and kale distinctly pop. This careful integration demonstrates how seasonal containers can do more than just sit on a patio—they can actively complement the surrounding permanent landscape and elevate otherwise overlooked corners of a residential garden.
In another clever design choice captured on site, a series of weathered rectangular containers are grouped tightly together rather than dispersed across the patio. This deliberate clustering creates the optical illusion of one long, continuous planter box, delivering a much stronger visual impact than individual pots would achieve on their own. Repeating design motifs across multiple arrangements—such as the recurring presence of ornamental cabbage and kale alongside subtle splashes of purple and burgundy via flowers, foliage, or dark berries—creates a unified aesthetic across the property without making every single container look identical. This balance of repetition and variety is a hallmark of professional landscape design.
The behind-the-scenes reality of professional gardening is also on full display in the latest series from Glencoe. Amidst the stunning arrangements of purple pansies, rich red blooms, and pink panicle hydrangeas, stray pots and plant tags scattered across the ground offer a relatable glimpse into the hard work required to bring these living installations to life. Container design is undeniably messy and physically demanding work, but the results speak for themselves, transforming ordinary entryways and patios into welcoming autumn retreats.
Perhaps the most striking project from this latest installment is located at a different residential property in the same neighborhood, captured on a characteristically rainy autumn day. This particular arrangement utilizes vibrant croton foliage, whose fiery colors complement a cascade of golden berries suspended from arching, sculptural woody vines. The interplay between the twisting vines and the bright berries creates a dramatic, high-impact aesthetic that serves as the ultimate welcoming statement for anyone approaching the front entrance.
As the gardening community transitions deeper into the autumn months, Howard’s latest Glencoe installations provide a wealth of inspiration for anyone looking to extend the visual interest of their outdoor spaces. Gardeners interested in exploring more seasonal concepts can look back at his previous contributions to the community, which continue to serve as a benchmark for creative container design throughout the changing seasons.
