When I conceived of this autumn container planter series, I had a couple of challenges in mind. I wanted to use as few mums as possible (because I am tired of them!). I also wanted to explore different materials, be inspired by colors that aren’t so stereotypically ‘autumn’, and just be creative. I hope ou enjoy this and the other fall container garden ideas in this series.
(I’ve linked to all the others at the bottom of the post)
![Earthy wild white autumn container garden birch, moss, lemongrass, and heather (calluna) by rochelle greayer at www.pithandvigor.com](https://pithandvigor.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Earthy-white-wild-autumn-container-design-by-Rochelle-Greayer-pithandvigor.com-6.jpg)
![Earthy wild white autumn container garden birch, moss, lemongrass, and heather (calluna) by rochelle greayer at www.pithandvigor.com](https://pithandvigor.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Earthy-white-wild-autumn-container-design-by-Rochelle-Greayer-pithandvigor.com-8.jpg)
This planter, while totally simple, steps firmly away from ‘typically fall’, but it is perhaps my favorite so far. Heather (calluna) carries with it nostalgia for a trip I made about 15 years ago to Yorkshire, England—a sweeping landscape that I instantly loved. This container recalls the wild, blustery nature of that place.
![Earthy wild white autumn container garden birch, moss, lemongrass, and heather (calluna) by rochelle greayer at www.pithandvigor.com](https://pithandvigor.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Earthy-white-wild-autumn-container-design-by-Rochelle-Greayer-pithandvigor.com-3.jpg)
The birch and the while calluna (heather) seem reminsicent of a winter holiday, but the lemongrass brings to mind a delicious martini that I like to make with coconut rum. It is everything summer and this contradiction is making me smile.
![Earthy wild white autumn container garden birch, moss, lemongrass, and heather (calluna) by rochelle greayer at www.pithandvigor.com](https://pithandvigor.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Earthy-white-wild-autumn-container-design-by-Rochelle-Greayer-pithandvigor.com-10.jpg)
I started the lemongrass (Cymbopogon) from seeds early this spring – a spring experiment that will continue – I now want to try and over winter these baby lemongrass plants inside. Have you tried this? I am curious to know if I should prune it back, or let it continue as it is.
If you want to try and create a similar container, I suggest substituting the lemon grass for reeds or any other large garden grass. You don’t need the actual plant as I have, just clippings will last for at least a week or two – maybe more – jam them directly into the soil.
![Earthy wild white autumn container garden birch, moss, lemongrass, and heather (calluna) by rochelle greayer at www.pithandvigor.com](https://pithandvigor.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Earthy-white-wild-autumn-container-design-by-Rochelle-Greayer-pithandvigor.com_.jpg)
What do you think—does white work for the fall garden? It is unexpected and subdued compared to the fiery colors that dominate the season, but I like it. It feels like a nice segue to the quiet of winter.
Earthy White Autumn Container Garden Plant List:
- Calluna vulgaris
- Cymbopogon (Lemongrass)
- Sheet moss
- Birch Branches
- Brown Terracotta from personal collection (but originally purchased at Lowes)
images by rochelle greayer
White compliments various other plants whether they’re in planters or just on display in your garden.
I am using white in my autumn garden and was pondering just yesterday on the idea that it may be a little strange. I’m happy to see that someone with such good taste is using it as well.
Aww thanks…I think it is beautiful and fresh – just what I want. Good luck with the garden!