Fall in Puerto Vallarta is the perfect time to get your hands dirty! The temperatures are warm but not scorching, the soil is still cozy from summer, and the humidity is finally dropping. This means fewer pests and more time to focus on planting. I’ve been lucky to grow some incredible plants on my rooftop and in local gardens—these five are my absolute favorites for adding color and life to your patios and gardens this season. Let’s dive in!
1. Chrysanthemums & Marigolds – “Fall’s Showstopper!”
Chrysanthemums and marigolds are must-haves in November! Not only are they stunning, but they also carry deep cultural significance during Día de los Muertos. Marigolds, or cempasúchil, represent the sun and life, and their strong scent is believed to guide spirits back to their altars.
- Why Plant: They bring friendship, trust, and optimism—perfect qualities to add to your garden.
- Best Conditions: Well-drained, fertile soil with 4-5 hours of morning sun. Avoid intense afternoon sun to extend bloom time.
- Care Tips: Water consistently before the leaves wilt. They’re perfect for pots, so grab a few from your local vivero (garden)!
2. Hibiscus – “A Splash of Color on Every Patio!”
Hibiscus is one of my personal favorites for its bright, bold flowers. This plant adds a tropical vibe and is a key ingredient in Mexican culture—yes, that refreshing agua de Jamaica comes from hibiscus!
- Why Plant: The vibrant flowers come in various colors, making patios and rooftops pop with color.
- Best Conditions: Plant in rich, humus-filled pots with plenty of sun. Full sun is ideal, but it can tolerate partial afternoon shade.
- Care Tips: Repot every 2-3 years to keep roots healthy and water regularly. The more sun, the bigger the blooms!
3. Firecracker Plant (Coral Fountain) – “Hummingbird Magnet!”
This plant is an absolute delight to have around, not just for its long, tubular red blooms but also for the constant stream of hummingbirds it attracts. Picture your patio with this cascading beauty and a few iridescent colibrís flitting around—it’s pure magic!
- Why Plant: It draws in hummingbirds and adds a stunning cascade of red blooms to hanging pots.
- Best Conditions: Prefers well-drained, slightly chalky soil with full sun to partial shade.
- Care Tips: Drought-tolerant and perfect for hanging baskets, this plant thrives when allowed to cascade naturally.
4. Shrimp Plant – “The Easygoing Native!”
This compact native is one of the easiest plants to grow here, and it’s so rewarding! Shrimp plants thrive in partial shade, making them perfect for those slightly shadier corners of your patio or garden.
- Why Plant: It’s a hardy, native plant that brings vibrant color while staying compact at 3-4 feet.
- Best Conditions: Morning sun with afternoon shade, plus well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
- Care Tips: Prune it back to 2 inches when it starts getting leggy. With regular feeding during its long bloom season, it’ll come back year after year.
5. Poinsettia (Flor de Nochebuena) – “The Spirit of Christmas in Bloom!”
Poinsettias are not just for the holidays—they’re a cherished native Mexican plant that brings a festive spirit to any space. The vibrant red “flowers” are actually leaves that turn color with longer nights.
- Why Plant: A Christmas classic that symbolizes the spirit of giving and miracles.
- Best Conditions: Bright, indirect sunlight is best; too much midday sun will scorch the leaves.
- Care Tips: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, and prune after the holidays to encourage new growth. With proper care, they can bloom multiple times a year!
Gardening in Puerto Vallarta is a joy; these plants are just the beginning. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned gardener, I hope you’ll find success (and maybe a few surprises) as you dig into this tropical paradise. Happy planting!
