Fall Planting: Perhaps the Best Time of Year to Plant!

Many people believe spring is the best time to plant, but adding perennials, wildflowers, and shrubs to the garden in the fall gives them a head start for the next growing season. As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisp, fall presents an opportune time for landscaping. Planting trees and shrubs during this season offers numerous benefits, helping your new additions establish themselves and thrive in the years to come. Fall planting is a valuable investment in your home's landscape!

In addition to perennials, wildflowers, and shrubs, vegetables and herbs grow well in fall, too—especially greens and root vegetables. When you plant in the fall, you take advantage of milder weather. More rain and moderate temperatures mean less watering (potentially a significant cost savings), and less stress on new plants, allowing their root systems to establish themselves in a comfortable environment before winter.

Fall planting also provides support for pollinators like birds, bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects because those fall plantings will bloom earlier next spring.

The time of year is one aspect of a successful garden and landscape, but how you plant and care for the new trees and shrubbery is another.

Guidelines for Successful Fall Planting:

Ideal Growing Conditions:

The cooler temperatures of fall provide ideal conditions for planting new trees and shrubs, as the warm soil from summer allows roots to grow and anchor before the ground freezes. This extended root development period gives the plants a head start for vigorous growth in the following spring.

Reduced Stress on Plants:

Planting during the fall reduces the stress on both plants and gardeners alike. Unlike the scorching heat of summer or the harsh conditions of winter, fall provides a mild climate that minimizes the chances of heat stress and water evaporation. This allows newly planted trees and shrubs to adjust more comfortably, without the pressure of extreme weather conditions.

Ample Moisture Availability:

Fall often brings more frequent rainfall, providing a natural irrigation system for your newly planted additions. This abundance of moisture helps in the establishment process and reduces the need for constant watering. Additionally, the lower temperatures result in slower evaporation rates, allowing plants to absorb water effectively.

Less Susceptibility to Pests and Diseases:

During the fall, many pests and diseases that typically plague plants during the warmer months begin to decrease in activity. This means that newly planted trees and shrubs face a lower risk of encountering harmful organisms that could impede their growth.

Opportunity for Root Establishment:

Trees and shrubs planted in the fall can focus their energy on root establishment rather than expending resources on foliage and flower production. This enables them to develop strong and extensive root systems that provide a sturdy foundation for future growth.

Cost and Availability:

Fall is often considered the “off-season” for planting, which means that garden centers and nurseries might offer discounts on trees and shrubs as they make way for new inventory. This makes it a cost-effective time to invest in your landscaping endeavors.

Planting trees and shrubs in the fall offers many benefits. The cooler weather, increased moisture, and fewer pests create ideal conditions for healthy growth. By planting now, you’ll enjoy new growth and blooms in the spring, enhancing the beauty of your landscape for years to come. Take advantage of this season to invest in the future of your outdoor space.

Down to Earth Living, celebrating its 52nd year, Down to Earth Living Garden Center in Rockland County offers 12.5 acres filled with perennials, flowers, shrubs and trees, with new arrivals coming in every week. The 10,000 square foot showroom has a large and unique selection of contemporary, classic, traditional, and transitional teak, aluminum and all-weather dining and deep-seated furniture. The center is open 9 – 5 every day and is located near Bergen County at 1040 Route 45. Phone number is 845-354-8500. Website is www.dteliving.com for more information.