Happy Friday to all Garden Photo of the Day (GPOD) readers. As another busy week comes to a close, the reality of the changing seasons can no longer be ignored. Fall temperatures have officially arrived across the Midwest, bringing with them a vibrant display of changing leaves that put on a breathtaking show before the inevitable return of winter.
While the traditional growing season is steadily winding down for gardeners in colder climates, the shift in weather does not mean an end to garden color. There remains ample opportunity to infuse landscapes with rich seasonal hues through carefully curated container arrangements. Few professionals master this seasonal transition quite like Howard, a veteran Chicago-based container designer who has been crafting striking seasonal displays for nearly four decades.
Howard is no stranger to the GPOD community, having previously shared his imaginative spring container creations and festive, creative Halloween displays. Today, he returns to present a brand-new collection of fall containers captured during a recent project in Glencoe, Illinois, located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a.
The Art of Fall Foliage and Whimsical Textures
The backbone of Howard’s Glencoe project relies heavily on ornamental cabbage and kale (Brassica oleracea cvs.), which serve as annual anchors providing substantial volume and ruffled texture. However, the focal point for many observers lies in the dramatic clusters of deep burgundy berries incorporated into the arrangements. These dark, moody tones are paired with twisting woody stems that introduce an element of whimsy, successfully tying the disparate botanical elements together into a cohesive visual narrative.
Examining the installations more closely reveals a thoughtful dialogue between the containers and their permanent surroundings. The earthy tones of the terracotta planters complement the stonework beneath them, grounding the designs within the formal architecture of the site. Nearby clipped boxwoods (Buxus sempervirens, Zones 5–8) provide a structured evergreen backdrop that makes the ruffled, multicolored foliage of the ornamental cabbages and kales truly stand out. This integration highlights how temporary seasonal containers can successfully complement the surrounding permanent landscape and elevate otherwise overlooked corners of a property.
Cohesive Design Through Repetition and Scale
In another striking feature of the Glencoe landscape, a series of weathered rectangular containers are grouped tightly together. At first glance, the arrangement gives the impression of one continuous, elongated planter box. Choosing to cluster these vessels rather than dispersing them across the patio maximizes their visual impact.
Across these various installations, ornamental cabbage and kale remain the undisputed stars, while recurring accents of purple and burgundy create a rhythmic visual harmony. Whether introduced through dynamic foliage, delicate flower petals, or dark autumn berries, these recurring color palettes demonstrate a masterclass in how repeating specific hues and plant varieties can unify a complex design without making every single container look identical. Even amidst the messy reality of active installation—complete with scattered pots and discarded plant tags left on the ground—the final results speak for themselves, offering a masterclass in autumn landscape aesthetics.
A Welcoming Finish on a Rainy Day
Concluding this latest series of designs, another remarkable container arrangement was captured at a neighboring residence in Glencoe on the very same rainy day. This particular composition showcases the sculptural effect of twisting woody vines adorned with cascading golden berries. The bright, warm tones of the colorful croton foliage complement the golden berries exquisitely, creating a rich tapestry of autumn color.
Against the backdrop of an overcast, damp afternoon, the installation serves as a vibrant, welcoming statement for anyone approaching the home. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of thoughtful container design to transform an entryway, providing rich inspiration for gardeners looking to extend their season well into the cooler months.
