Lunaria are often referred to as “Money Plants” because their seed pods resemble coins. The seed pods start out green and go golden brown. After the seed pods and stems have gone golden and dried, they make excellent dried flower arrangements that last an exceptionally long time. Lunaria are biennial plants, meaning that if you plant it one year, it will bloom the next.

Plant Luneria seeds in a location where they will be allowed to grow for years and years. Lunaria are very easy to grow and require little to no attention. They can grow in almost any type of soil, but should get at least four to six hours of sunlight every day. Water plants only during drought when the soil has dried out.

Columbine is an easy to grow perennial native to Asia, Europe and North America. If you are a hummingbird lover, Columbine is the plant for you. It is a favorite of hummingbirds and bees because the flowers contain lots of nectar.

Columbines produce large, showy blooms in shades of yellow, white, and pink, blue, purple as well as combinations.

Columbine grow well in partial shade and well drained soil. They do not require mulching or protection in the winter.

Larkspur (Delphinium Consolida) actually belongs to the buttercup family. Colorful Larkspur blooms vary from white to blue to violet. Larkspur flowers are irregularly shaped and bloom in a loose, vertical grouping along the upper end of the plant’s main stalk.

Larkspur plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They grow very quickly and do very well in average soil in cool weather. Water plants during dry periods, once or twice per week.

Candytuft is a low, bushy plant that produces mounds of beautiful ice-white, pink or lilac flowers. Candytuft, though native to Europe, has adapted to all regions of the United States. This plant prefers gravely, well-drained soil in full sun. Candytuft will not tolerate damp soil conditions or shade making it the perfect plant for rock gardens.

After blooms have faded be sure to cut back the foliage to prevent the plants from becoming woody.

Foxglove is a stately plant that has been featured in gardens for centuries. The foxglove has been grown as a vertical accent in cottage gardens, as well as Victorian era gardens, for cut flowers, and even as an herb for medicinal purposes .

Foxglove prefers to be planted in rich soil and partial shade. Allow plenty of room for growth since they can grow to 5 feet tall by 1 foot wide. Cutting finished foxglove blooms will encourage repeat blooming.

Asters are an easy to grown perennial that come in a variety of colors including blues, purples and a variety of pinks, but always with a yellow center.  They look a lot like a daisy, but they are actually in the sunflower family.

Aster grows well in average soil, but requires full sun.  They will reward you with many more blooms and healthier plants if you add plenty of compost. Asters have sturdy stalks which make them ideal candidates for cutting and using in vases and flower arrangements.

Chrysanthemums are beautiful, versatile plants that can be found in a wide range of colors and varieties. Hardy and strong, many chrysanthemum varieties thrive in conditions that would be the ruin of most other flowering plants. Chrysanthemums are often the last flowers to give in to the cold air and frost of an approaching winter season. They are extremely easy to cultivate and care for and chrysanthemums can be planted directly in the ground or grown in containers to brighten up a porch or balcony.

Chrysanthemums will do best when planted in full sun, in well drained soil. Avoid areas lit by artificial light at night as they can interfere with the plants blooming cycle. Plants should be planted at least 18 inches apart to provide plenty of room for growth. Water plants well once per week during dry weather.

Snapdragons or Antirrhinums are an ideal choice for any Southern California fall garden. Their fun “dragon” flowers will open and close their mouth when squeezed, delighting children as well as adults!  Plant snapdragons now in beds, borders or containers using rich, well drained soil and plenty of water. They are hearty enough to withstand heavy rain, freezing temperatures and even our harsh Santa Ana winds.

Sweet Pea is an annual climber that bears clusters of flowers in a wide variety of colors such as red, pink, blue, white and lavender. The stems appear folded and the flowers resemble fringed butterflies. Sweet Peas have a long season of bloom, they make excellent cut flowers and most varieties are very fragrant.

Plant Sweet Pea seeds directly into the garden in somewhat rich soil. They will climb almost any support you provide them with.  Adding a bit of blood meal to the soil is thought to help keep the stems long and suitable for cutting.

Portulaca is a truly beautiful low growing ground cover plant also known as the Sun Rose or the Moss Rose. They are easy to grow, draught tolerant and are an excellent choice for areas with extremely high heat. Their eye-catching blooms can beautify your landscape and will also attract many butterflies. One word of caution though, they will seed and spread themselves like wildfire. Some control methods may be necessary to stop Potulaca from becoming invasive in areas where they are not wanted.

Portulaca is extremely easy to grow in average to poor soil in full sun. Add a general, high nitrogen fertilizer when first planting, to allow them to get a good start. Add a high phosphorus fertilizer just before blooming. No other fertilizer should be needed during the growing season. Portulaca does not need much water so if you forget every now and then your plants will be fine.