Fall is an excellent time to plant trees, shrubs, perennials, spring blooming bulbs and turfgrass. Our incredible Fall season here in Minnesota has many planting benefits. One big benefit is the cooler temperatures which are easier on plant material as well as the GARDENERS. Soil temperatures are still warm, which allows the root systems to take off, unlike spring when the soil temps are still cold. Normally, fall has more good planting days than spring does as well as a bit more time for the planter versus our busy springtime in the landscape. Fall showers help but it is also easy to deeply water plants if it doesn’t rain an inch per week. Disease and pests are less frequent and fertilizing is not necessary.
Fall is a great time to plant trees and shrubs. The new plants will have time to grow new roots and be ready to go come spring when you are frantically getting all of your perennials uncovered and annuals planted. Just keep them watered until the ground freezes so they go into winter happy as they can be.
Fall is not only a good time to plant perennials, but is also the best time to divide many perennial varieties. Hostas, daylilies, and tall garden phlox are just a few. Peonies benefit by being transplanted in the fall also. Remember to water and mulch all of your perennials so they go into winter healthy and protected.
If you are looking for early spring color, now is the time to plant. Tulips and daffodils are favorites here in our spring gardens and landscapes. Bulb planting is as simple as Dig hole, Drop bulb (right side up) and Done! Planted in the fall, dormant in the winter and emerging full of life with vibrant color in the spring garden.
Lawn grasses are cool season plants and late summer/early fall are the best times to seed. Remember, the seed must come in contact with soil and don’t forget to water.
So YES, you can still plant in the fall and be one big step ahead next spring. Give your plants the proper care throughout the growing season and your healthy plant should have little difficulty withstanding the upcoming Minnesota winter. Remember, “It’s better to put a $100 tree in a $200 hole than to put a $200 tree in a $100 hole”. HAPPY PLANTING!
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