Why is Fall the Best Time to Plant?

Sep 09, 2021

Fall is in the air!

Fall is our favorite season and it’s also the best time to plant.

Trees, shrubs, perennials, and lawns all benefit from fall planting. But why?

As air temperatures cool and soil temperatures remain warm, it creates the perfect conditions for root growth. And we know that strong healthy roots contribute to a strong healthy plant.

Along with the cooler air temperatures, fall usually brings more frequent rainfall which is also beneficial to new plantings.

Another benefit is that pests and diseases are much less prevalent in the fall. Even, less weeds that germinate in the fall.

You won’t see much leaf growth when you plant in the fall, but this is a good thing: any new growth that the plant produces may be killed by the coming winter.

During fall, plants are sending their energy to the root system in the form of carbohydrates that are stored as sugars and starch in the plants root system. This results in a stronger, better developed root system for the next spring when the plant begins to grow.

Not all plants are candidates for fall planting. Crape Myrtle, Butterfly Bush, Weigela, and some conifers can experience winter damage if planted in the fall.

Come see us this fall so we can provide you with the proper information to get a jump start on next year’s garden by planting this fall.