FALL IS OFFICIALLY HERE! WHY PLANT NOW?
More people plant in the spring than at any other time. I think the reason is two-fold. First, we have all been cooped up for the winter and are eager to get outside when it turns warm. Secondly, more people think planting in the spring is best because our plants have months of warm days ahead, and we don’t need to worry anymore about cold damage.
With all this said, knowledgeable gardeners know the best time to plant trees and shrubs is in the fall. So, why is fall planting better than spring planting?
As of this writing, our soil temperature is 74 degrees. But please be aware that our surface soil is dry.
HERE ARE A FEW POINTS AS TO WHY FALL IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR FOR PLANTING
- There is less stress on your plants. Planting in the fall, when plants are in the beginning stages of dormancy, your plants tend to be hardier and sturdier, reducing stress so that the plants can thrive.
- Happy roots make for happy plants. Fall planting establishes trees and shrubs by encouraging root growth. With fall planting, we typically have cooler temperatures. However, here in Central Virginia, the soil remains warm, encouraging root growth, and this root development can continue for months. Come spring, these established roots begin new growth and develop faster than plants planted in the spring.
- Trees and shrubs planted in the fall can better withstand the rigors of the following summer’s heat and dry conditions.
- Plants planted in the fall have seven to nine months to develop before our traditional, hot, humid summers.
- Increased amounts of rainfall and cooler temperatures in the fall provide plants with the perfect environment in which to develop.
- In the fall, fewer pests and disease problems interfere with plant development.
FALL IS FOR PLANTING A LITTLE HAPPINESS!