Q WHY DO WE PLANT IN FALL?
A In the fall, the soil is still warm, so roots will continue to grow. Plants installed in early spring, meanwhile, get off to a slower start because the soil hasn’t yet warmed to optimum temperatures for root growth. Fallplanted plants begin root growth more quickly the next spring, and top growth follows sooner.
Additionally, fall plantings do not have to contend with the stress of summer heat and potential drought. The season’s cooler daytime temperatures are gentle on plants as they get established, and the slant of the sun is less harsh. Pests and diseases tend to be less prevalent in the fall, as this year’s bugs die or prepare to hibernate and the humidity that promotes many diseases fades away.
Fall favors the gardener, too. Successes and failures of the summer are fresh in mind to inform new plant choices and placement. The work feels more pleasant in the cooler air, and the garden center might be running an end-of-season sale.
Q WHAT AND WHEN DO WE PLANT IN FALL?
A Fall is the time to plant trees, shrubs, perennials, spring-blooming bulbs and even certain seeds (more on that later). The best time
