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Fall is for Planting: Why Autumn is the Secret Season for Gardeners

Written by Brian Pirtle | Sep 12, 2024 4:26:03 PM

Fall is for Planting: Why Autumn is the Secret Season for Gardeners

Fall has a special kind of magic, odnt you think? The air gets crisp, leaves put on a stunning color show, and yes, footbal is back!!! But did you know fall isn't just about pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters? it's also the BEST time to get your hands dirty in the garden. 

Why Fall is the Best Time to Plant

As the days get shorter and the air turns cooler, the soil is still holding onto the warmth of summer. This perfect combo of warm soil and cool air sets the stage for some serious root growth. Plus, fall usually brings more rain, which means less watering for you and happier plants all around. And the best part? Fewer bugs, diseases, and weeds to deal with!

When you plant in the fall, your plants get a head start. While spring-planted greens are just waking up, your fall plantings have already spent months quietly establishing strong root systems, ready to burst forth when spring rolls around.

What Plants Love a Fall Planting

Fall isn’t just for trees—though they love it, too! Shrubs, perennials, and ornamental grasses all thrive when planted in the fall. Even though they’ll go dormant in winter, their roots keep growing, setting them up to be twice the size by next spring.

Time to Tackle the Turf!

Fall is also prime time for patching up those bare spots in your lawn or starting fresh with new turf. Grass seed loves the cool weather, germinating quickly and filling in beautifully. And if your lawn’s looking tired, it’s a great time to aerate and overseed to keep it lush.

Don’t Forget Fall Veggies!

Cool-season veggies are the underdogs of the gardening world—kale, lettuce, collards, broccoli, carrots, radishes, and beets all love the chillier temps. Plant them now, and you’ll be enjoying fresh, homegrown produce long after your summer crops have called it quits.

Ready to Dig In?

Stop by Colonial Gardens for everything you need to make the most of this fantastic planting season. Whether you're filling in bare spots, planting the garden of your dreams, or just picking up a few fall veggies, we’ve got you covered. Fall is for planting, and we’re here to help you every step of the way!

 

 Written By "Botanical Brian" Pirtle, Horticulturist