Fall Planting

When most people think of "planting time", they think of spring. But in areas with mild winters, the best time to plant is actually fall. In zones 7 through 12, fall is prime planting time. Plants that are planted in September, October and even November perform better in spring. Fall is also the perfect time to plant bare-root shrubs. 

        There are quite a few benefits to planting in the fall. Summer is very hot and dry in most Southwestern states and this can stress plants that have just been transplanted and have not had time to develop an adequate root structure. Fall's cooler temperatures and ample moisture allow plants to develop the roots necessary to sustain spring blooming. Roots develop and store moisture, continuing growth until the soil freezes. In areas without freezing temperature, root growth continues all winter, even though the plant may look dormant. Plants planted in spring begin top growth immediately, concentrating the plant's energy on leaf and flower growth, instead of root growth. 

        Fall planting is just as easy as spring planting; maybe a little easier because the cooler temperatures are easier on you. Begin to prepare your planting area by removing weeds, and turning the soil. Arbor and Bloom offers three hand tools to make soil prep fast and easy. Our Mini-Cultivator, allows you to work small areas without disturbing the other plants in the area. The Mini-Hoe, is a champion weed remover and our Mini-Tiller, has thousands of uses, from digging small holes to removing weeds. Dig a hole for your plant that is slightly larger than the pots. Unpot your plants carefully by gently squeezing the pot and then sliding the plant out. Loosen the roots if necessary by hand. Place the plant in the prepared hole and fill with soil. Be sure not to put soil any higher on the stem of the plant than it was in the pot. Keep the soil around the plants moist but not soaked. 

Native plants love to be planted in the fall, when ample rain and cool temperatures allow them to get a good hold in the garden. Most Salvias, will reward fall planting with vigorous spring growth and bloom. Streptosolen, Pennisetum, Tagetes, and Achillea, also appreciate the head start a fall planting offers. Some plants, however, require the heat of summer to stimulate root growth and should not be planted in fall. These are: 

Agastache, 
Aster x frikartii 'Monch', 
Agave, 
Buddleja, 
Gaura, 
Rosemary. 

So plant now and watch the spring show in your garden!!!