FALL IS FOR PLANTING PERENNIALS

Many people are unaware that fall is a wonderful time to plant. Gardeners often think fo spring as the planting season and miss out on a great opportunity.

The following conditions make fall perennial planting ideal.

  • The soil is perfect. Warm soil temperatures (unlike spring)enhance rooting. Also the soil is soft and workable - which is excellent for root growth.
  • Cool air temperature minimize wilting and transplant shock. The days are growing shorter. Thus the plants receive fewer hours of searing sun compared to mid-summer. With less heat, less water is lost through the leaves, thus plants don't suffer as much as in hotter months. Cooler temperatures also make garden chores more pleasant.
  • Moisture levels are generally higher. precipitation is often greater in the fall and thus soil moisture is more abundant and available to the plants.
  • Many insects are going dormant, thus plants suffer less from insect attack. Also, those pesty bugs will be less bothersome as you garden.
  • Fall planting allows you to get a jump start on the spring gardening chores. Spring is often a very busy time in many people's lives. There are numerous garden chores to accomplish. Planting hardy plants in the fall will lessen your spring work.
  • Fall planting enables you to plan for and plant a better display for the next year. Plants will generally be bigger and showier than those planted in the subsequent spring.
  • Your garden needs are fresh in your mind. You may not remember the problems, the changes, the editing that needs to be done several months from now. Now is a great time to evaluate your perennial plantings. 
      • Does your garden lack color at times?

       Are there holes or empty areas?

       Are your plants overcrowded?

       Do you have misplaced plants? Tall in front of short, colors that clash, etc. Fall is a great time to remedy these problems while they are very apparant and still fresh in your mind.

  • Nurseries recognize that fall is a great planting time and are growing fresh plant material for this season, thus there is better plant selection available. Specials are often run late in the season You may be able to find great bargains. Plants which have not sold all season and have been in a pot too long may be pot bound. Remember to break apart the root ball and tease the roots apart to disrupt those girdling roots.

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    Plant now for next year's spring, summer and fall blooming success!

    Here are some tips for successful fall planting

  • Prepare the soil by adding compost, peat moss or other organic matter to existing soil.
  • Cut back excess foliage and blooms to minimize evaporation.
  • Break apart the root bal to encourage the roots to quickly "grab onto" their new home. Otherwise they will think they are still in their pot!
  • Mulch the surrounding soil to conserve moisture and soil warmth.
  • Provide a winter mulch over the top of the plant after the ground is frozen. Evergreen boughs work best. shredded leaves can also be used.

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    How late can you plant perennials?

    Plants need time to get established before the onset of winter. That is, their roots need to grow into the surrounding soil. When soil temperatures get too cold, root growth ceases. Since seasonal temperatures vary from year to year, it is difficult to give an absolute sage planting interval. The earlier you plant the less risk there is. Here in USDA Zone 6, September planting of most perennials is generally safe. Planting in October is more risky. (I have planted safely in November in many years). If the choice is to leave it in the pot over the winter or plant it, I recommend you plant it and mulch it heavily.