Benefits of Fall Plantings
Football season, falling leaves, pumpkins, and crisp cool air are all telltale signs that fall has arrived. Many people don't realize the many benefits of planting during the fall months. It is an ideal season for planting shrubs, trees and other assorted plants.
September, October, and November have ideal temperatures for getting plant material off to a great start! In the fall, the soil still holds summers warmth, which encourages the root growth up until the ground freezes. This allows perennials, shrubs and trees to grow more quickly the following spring. Due to the cooler temperatures there is less stress on plants. This means fewer transplants shock and allow the plants to build healthier root systems. With roots already established in the fall the plants bloom earlier, are bigger and heartier in the spring. If you want to spruce up your spring garden now is the time to plant.
Cooler temps, reliable rainfall and shorter, bright days help plants make an easy and quick transition to your landscape. All plants should be in the ground 6 weeks before the ground freezes. (Typically in Michigan the ground freezes in mid to late December.) This allows the plants the time to get established enough to withstand the cold and snow. Mulch is a great insulator for new fall plants. (Like covering up with a blanket on a cold fall day.) It creates an ideal environment for vigorous root growth and stabilizes the ground temperature.
Other benefits to planting in the fall are:
Extra root growth.
Less water required. (Days are shorter and cooler)
Pest and disease problems diminish in the fall.
Don't need to fertilize in the fall.
Better weed control.
