Benefits of Fall Planting

 Not only is fall great for cooler temperatures, pumpkin pie and wonderful fall foliage but it is also a superb time to plant perennials, shrubs and trees! There is a huge misconception that spring is the only time you should plant. However, fall is a prime time to plant in order to develop strong root growth as well as potentially save you time and money.

 Roots are one of the most important structures of a plant. They support and anchor the plant. They absorb and transport water and minerals from the soil to nourish the rest of the plant. In winter, they store the products of photosynthesis: carbohydrates, sugars and proteins. This allows them to survive the winter and produce that beautiful flush of bright green foliage in the spring.

 With that being said, when you plant in fall you are giving your plant extra time to establish a healthy root system. Roots will continue to grow into winter until the ground temperature goes below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The ground in this area typically reaches that temperature in January, so depending on how soon you plant, you could get at least four months of root growth under your plants’ belts! This is a significantly better start than the same plant planted in spring, considering that in spring a plant is working hard on leaves, buds, stem and flower growth and cannot focus on good root development.

 With fall come shorter, cooler days and longer nights. Plants photosynthesize less during these conditions and therefore require less water. Water will stay in the soil longer since less evaporation is occurring than on hot summer days. It is important to remember that a newly planted perennial, shrub or tree still needs consistent watering in order to help it become established. For proper watering technique, be sure to check out our Watering Theory on the Informational Sheets page.

 In addition to water savings you can save a lot of time too. In spring, everyone is busy with planting, fertilizing, pruning, cleaning, mulching and getting their vegetable gardens started! If you spread some of your planting work out to the fall, you’ll be able to relax a little and enjoy your garden a bit more as well as be more thorough in the work that you’re doing.