Although many homeowners are focused on the end of the gardening season, I’m thinking about all I can still accomplish. Soon, the nights will grow cooler, and the leaves will turn yellow and red before the trees are bare. The plants we bought in May will fade away as the temperatures drop. It’s easy to assume that the gardening season has ended. However, any experienced gardener knows that the coming months offer some of the best planting opportunities.
Why Plant in the Fall?
Cooler temperatures prompt plants to stop growing leaves and focus on new root development. This helps them establish themselves before winter. Additionally, rainfall increases during this time, naturally providing hydration to new plants.
Of course, there are some risks when planting in the fall, especially depending on what you plant and how late in the season. In fact, winter desiccation is one of the most common causes of plant death. This happens when a plant loses moisture faster than it can replenish it over the winter.
Tips to Protect Your Plants from Drying Out:
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Don’t turn off your irrigation system until late fall.
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Use an anti-desiccant spray to reduce moisture loss.
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Spread 2 inches of mulch around plants to retain soil moisture.
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Avoid quick-release fertilizers, as they can cause new growth. Instead, use fertilizers that encourage root growth.
Fall is my favorite time to be in the garden. Whether it’s enjoying cooler weather, fall festivals, changing leaves, or crisp nights, it’s always a great time to work outside. This season reminds me of all the work I’d love to do. Plant now, and by spring, you’ll have well-established plants ready to welcome you into a new flowering season.
Learn more about our Landscape Design/Build Department and how we can help maintain your landscape year-round. Whether you need help with anti-desiccant sprays, pruning, or mulching, Hicks Landscapes is here for you. Click here to learn more about Hicks Landscapes or call 516-334-0068.
By Sean, Maher, Hicks Landscapes Designer