The season is changing, the leaves will be falling soon, and the weather is turning cooler. For many people, this is a time for Pumpkin Spice Lattes, apple cider, a trip to the pumpkin patch, kicking back and watching some football; but to us it is the BEST time for planting!
While it might sound counter-intuitive, the best time to
plant a new tree, shrub, or perennial is actually in the fall. When a plant is
put into the ground in fall, it may be facing the cold above ground; but in the
Midwest, root growth continues until deep soil temperature drops below 40
degrees.
If you plant a shrub in spring, it must acclimate itself to
its new home and begin growing immediately. At the same time, it has to produce
leaves, flowers, and then endure the rapidly arriving summer heat. Plant the
same shrub in fall, and here’s what happens: It becomes happily dormant above
ground soon after planting, but the roots have several months to grow and
become comfortable and strong in their new home. When spring does arrive, the
plant is established and ready to put out strong leaves, new growth, and lots
of flowers! So the difference is obvious: Fall planting gives your plant’s
roots a wonderful head start over spring planting.
For newly planted and established plants, fall fertilization
is incredibly important. If you only fertilize once a year, make it in the fall
instead of in the spring!
Unfortunately, spring is still the season you’ll find the
greatest selection of shrubs and trees. But most nurseries and garden centers
are beginning to recognize the value of fall planting and making special
efforts to provide their customers with the best selection possible throughout
the fall and early winter season.
When selecting those special plants for your landscape,
always look for healthy, well-grown plants. Always buy from a reputable nursery
with an experienced staff. These nurseries are in the business of selling
service year-round, and in turn, they depend on loyal customers continued
confidence in their business.
Plants come in a vast array of shapes, sizes, colors, and
most importantly, qualities. It is just as important to evaluate plants
individually before purchasing as it is to carefully inspect a new shirt of a
television set. Shopping for plants by telephone or looking for the least expensive
price can be a costly mistake. That old saying “You get what you pay for,” is
often true, and certainly applies to the purchase of new landscape plant
materials. Many times you will find that not all nurseries and garden centers
are created equal.
A new tree or shrub can be a large physical investment. Why
not give your new plant the best possible chance of survival and make care of
the plant easier on you? Get outside and take advantage of this fall planting
season!
