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Fall flower beds in Kumpula allotment gardens in Helsinki

Creating a Timeless Fall Flower Bed with Ornamental Grasses

inspiration & client stories plant selection & care

As the season transitions into fall, it’s always thrilling to reflect on how the flowerbeds have evolved throughout the growing season. One of my most cherished projects I have been visiting this year has been in the historical Kumpula allotment garden in Helsinki.

In 2022, I had the privilege of redesigning two 50-square-meter perennial beds in the entrance square, framing the central axis of this allotment garden. The original planting, crafted by Elisabeth Koch, the Grand Old Dame of Finnish garden design, dates back to the 1920s. To be entrusted with bringing this legacy into the new millennium while honoring Koch’s vision has been an absolute honor.

 


I’m delighted to share that the new plantings have been in full bloom since last spring after being established just a year ago in fall 2023. They’ve become a true highlight of the garden's entrance square, drawing admiration from both allotment gardeners and visitors alike. Every time I visit to see and photograph the beds, I’m met with warm, appreciative comments from people thrilled by the transformation. There’s a special kind of joy in hearing praise from strangers who are so captivated by the beauty of these perennial beds that they can’t help but start a conversation.

 



As autumn deepens, the flower beds’ color scheme has turned into the sunny yellows of Summer Sun false sunflower (Heliopsis helianthoides ‘Summer Sun’) and Moonbeam thread-leaved tickseed (Coreopsis verticillata ’Moonbeam’), the reblooming cranesbills, and the violet hues of asters and phlox, which are beautifully complemented by the ornamental grasses.

Initially, the plan also included the brilliant orange tiger lilies (Lilium lancifolium) with their striking recurved petals. The orange tiger lilies would provide a vibrant focal point amid yellows and purples of blooms and the subdued, warm tones of grasses.

A year ago, these planting areas were planted in late summer - early fall, the perfect time to plant perennials. However, lilies are best planted as bulbs in spring. So, lilies are missing this fall but will be added next spring. I’m eagerly anticipating the fiery orange of tiger lilies standing against the warm yellow flowerhead of false sunflowers and soft, tawny hues of grasses in all their late summer glory next year. The landscapers of the City of Helsinki did an excellent job - it is hard to believe that the planting has just turned one year old!



As the fall proceeds, the design starts centering around ornamental grasses, which genuinely come into their own during this season, offering both striking structure and movement that hold the eye through the season's end. These grasses serve as seasonal anchors, providing a dynamic quality that brings the garden to life as they sway in the autumn breeze. The color of their seedheads intensifies with the cooler weather, turning shades of mellow gold and golden tan, perfectly complementing the tones of the surrounding perennials. This transformation adds a rich layer of visual interest, ensuring the flower beds remain captivating even as flowering plants begin to fade.

 

P.S. Want to learn how to prevent ornamental grasses from taking over your perennials? Check out the most crucial things to consider before buying any ornamental grasses! You can read all about it in The Garden Blueprint Issue 001—click here to explore more inspiration and practical tips!

 

 

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