Why Fall is the Best Time to Plant

By: Whitney Baderian

Dear Garden Lovers,

I'd love to share with you why working in your garden during the fall is the most important season to give your yard the love it needs!

Attention is usually given to the garden when days get longer and the anticipation of summer break is in the air but if you were to ask any seasoned gardener or landscaper, they would tell you that fall is actually the best time to plant and prune your yard, so come spring, your garden will be in full bloom!

Why fall? The weather starts to cool which not only makes it easier on you when working in the garden but also easier on the plants.  The stress of summer heat is gone and fall weather allows new roots to become established.  Plants that are planted in the fall get a head start on spring because the roots continue to grow through the winter. In addition, the rainy season helps reduce the need for constant watering. When planting during the hot months the need to water can be every day so it really makes it much more low maintenance and cuts back on water usage.

Fall is also a great time to thoroughly clean-up your flowerbeds and trees. Fall is the time to remove old leaves and annuals as well as dead branches or overgrown trees. Pruning encourages new growth in the spring! Finally, don't forget to mulch. This will help keep moisture in and gives a nice maintained look.

By planting and cleaning up now you're laying the groundwork (no pun intended) for spring success!  Your plants will be fuller and healthier and more established for a longer life.  With gardening comes delayed gratification. Putting the time in now will give you the abundance spring has to offer! You reap what you sow! 

 Sincerely,

Whitney Baderian

Owner of Cactus & Fern by Whitney Ellen Design