By: Mandy Hatman
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As the crisp autumn air settles in, southern gardeners can embrace the Halloween spirit with some eerily enchanting plants. These spooky specimens are sure to add a touch of mystery to your garden while thriving in the southern climate.

Ghost Plant (Monotropa uniflora)
Also known as Indian Pipe or Corpse Plant, this ghostly white plant lacks chlorophyll, giving it an otherworldly appearance. Native to the southeast, it's a perfect addition to create a haunting atmosphere. Unlike most plants, it doesn't photosynthesize but instead parasitizes fungi connected to tree roots. The Ghost Plant emerges from the forest floor in late summer to early fall, just in time for Halloween. Its translucent stems and single nodding flower add an eerie touch to shaded areas.

Voodoo Lily (Amorphophallus konjac)
This unusual plant, native to Asia but adaptable to southern gardens, produces a large, deep purple flower that emits a foul odor reminiscent of rotting flesh. The flower, or inflorescence, can grow up to 2 feet tall and is surrounded by a dark purple spathe. Plant it near your entryway for a startling greeting to Halloween visitors. The Voodoo Lily's single leaf, which emerges after the flower, can reach heights of 4 feet and resembles a small tree. In winter, the plant dies back to an underground corm, only to rise again in spring like a zombie from the grave.

Dragon Arum (Dracunculus vulgaris)
Another stinky beauty, the Dragon Arum's deep maroon spathe resembles a gaping mouth, perfect for a monster-themed garden. It thrives in the warm southern climate. The spathe can grow up to 3 feet long and surrounds a blackish-purple spadix that can reach 2 feet in length. Like the Voodoo Lily, it emits a carrion-like odor to attract pollinators. The plant's large, deeply lobed leaves add to its dramatic appearance. After flowering, it produces clusters of bright red berries, extending its spooky appeal into the fall.

Black Bat Flower (Tacca chantrieri)
With its bat-like bracts and long whiskers, this plant adds an air of mystery to shaded areas. While it requires some care, it's well-suited to the humid southern environment. The Black Bat Flower produces large, dark purple flowers that can reach up to 12 inches across. Long, whisker-like filaments extend up to 28 inches from the flower, enhancing its eerie appearance. The plant's glossy, dark green leaves provide a striking backdrop for the unusual flowers. In optimal conditions, it can bloom from late spring through fall.

White Baneberry (Actaea pachypoda)
Also known as 'Doll's Eyes' this native perennial adds a truly creepy touch to your Halloween garden. Its fall berries are white with a distinct black dot, giving them an uncanny resemblance to eyeballs. These 'eyes' are clustered on thick, red stems, creating a disturbing yet fascinating display. White Baneberry prefers partial to full shade and moist, rich soil, making it perfect for creating eerie woodland garden scenes. Note that all parts of this plant are poisonous if ingested, adding to its sinister appeal but requiring caution around children and pets.

Remember, while these plants add spooky charm to your garden, always research their care requirements and potential toxicity before introducing them to your landscape. Many of these plants prefer partial shade and rich, well-draining soil. With proper care, these Halloween-themed plants can provide year-round interest and a touch of the macabre to your southern garden.

Happy Halloween gardening!

By: Mandy Hatman
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As the days grow shorter and the air crisp, Louisiana gardens can burst with color and life thanks to native plants. These autumn stars not only provide beautiful fall interest but also support local ecosystems.

Beautyberry (Callicarpa americana)
Native to Louisiana, this shrub steals the show in autumn with its clusters of vibrant purple berries. The berries persist well into winter, providing food for birds and adding a pop of color to the landscape. Beautyberry thrives in partial shade to full sun and is drought-tolerant once established.

Gulf Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris)
This native grass, found naturally in Louisiana, produces a stunning display of pink to purple feathery plumes that catch the light beautifully in fall. It's drought-tolerant and attracts butterflies. Plant in full sun for the best color show.

Winged Sumac (Rhus copallinum)
Native to Louisiana, winged sumac offers brilliant red fall foliage and red fruit clusters that persist into winter. It's an excellent choice for attracting wildlife and adding autumn color to the landscape.

Late Purple Aster (Symphyotrichum patens)
This native aster, found throughout Louisiana, blooms in late summer through fall, providing nectar for pollinators preparing for winter. Its lavender to deep purple flowers are a beautiful addition to the autumn garden.

Oak Leaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia)
Native to the southeastern United States, including parts of Louisiana, this hydrangea offers multi-season interest. It truly shines in fall when its leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and purple. It prefers partial shade and moist, well-drained soil.

By incorporating these native plants into your garden, you're not only creating a beautiful autumn landscape but also providing critical support for local wildlife. Remember, while fall is a great time to enjoy these plants, it's also an excellent time to plant them. Many natives establish well when planted in autumn, developing strong root systems over the winter to support vigorous
growth in spring.

 By: Mandy Hatman

Fall in Louisiana offers ideal conditions for many plants. The soil is still warm, encouraging root growth, while cooler air temperatures reduce stress on plants. Here's your guide to fall planting in the Pelican State.

Best Bulbs to Plant Now for Spring Blooms
In Louisiana's warm climate, many traditional spring bulbs need special care. Plant these in late November to early December:

• Narcissus (Daffodils): Choose heat-tolerant varieties like 'Carlton', 'Ice Follies', or 'Sweetness'.
• Louisiana Iris: Plant these native beauties in moist areas.
• Crinum Lilies: These heat-loving bulbs thrive in Louisiana.
• Amaryllis: Plant outdoors in south Louisiana for spring blooms.
• Tulips and Hyacinths: Pre-chill these bulbs for 6-8 weeks before planting. Treat as annuals in Louisiana's warm climate.

Cool-Season Vegetables for Louisiana Gardens
Plant these from September to February, depending on the specific vegetable:

• Leafy Greens: Lettuce, spinach, collards, mustard greens, and Swiss chard
• Root Vegetables: Carrots, radishes, turnips, and beets
• Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage
• Alliums: Onions and garlic (plant October to December)
• Peas: English and snow peas (plant September to October)

Trees and Shrubs That Thrive When Planted in Louisiana's Fall
Fall is the best time to plant woody plants in Louisiana. Plant these from October to March:

• Deciduous Trees: Southern live oak, bald cypress, southern magnolia
• Fruit Trees: Citrus, figs, persimmons (plant in early spring in north Louisiana)
• Shrubs: Azaleas, camellias, viburnums, and native hollies

Planting Tips for Louisiana

• Prepare soil well, incorporating organic matter. Louisiana soils benefit from added compost.
• In south Louisiana, create raised beds to improve drainage in heavy soils.
• Water thoroughly after planting and monitor moisture levels, especially if rainfall is scarce.
• Apply a layer of mulch to regulate soil temperature and retain moisture.
• For vegetables, consider using row covers to protect from unexpected cold snaps.
• Follow LSU AgCenter guidelines for specific planting dates in your region of Louisiana.

By taking advantage of Louisiana's fall planting season, you'll set your garden up for a beautiful spring display and a productive cool-season vegetable harvest. Remember to adjust planting times based on your specific location within the state.

Happy planting, Louisiana gardeners!