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Fall Is for Trees: Why September Is a Great Time to Plant
Sep
September may feel like the beginning of the end of the gardening season, but when it comes to planting trees and larger shrubs, fall is just getting started.
The combination of cooler air temperatures and soil that is still warm from summer can create favorable conditions for establishing many trees and shrubs. Instead of battling summer heat, new plantings can put their energy toward developing roots and settling into the landscape.
If adding shade, privacy, structure, or four-season interest has been on your wish list, September is a great time to get started.
Cooler Weather Means Less Stress
Summer planting can be challenging for both plants and gardeners. High temperatures increase moisture loss and can put additional stress on newly planted trees and shrubs.
By September, daytime temperatures typically begin to moderate while the soil retains warmth from summer. This can give roots an opportunity to establish before winter arrives.
And let’s be honest, digging a planting hole is a lot more enjoyable when it isn’t 90 degrees outside.
Give Roots a Head Start on Spring
One of the biggest advantages of fall planting happens underground.
While you may not see dramatic new growth above the soil, roots can continue developing while soil conditions remain suitable. That gives a newly planted tree or shrub valuable time to begin establishing itself before winter dormancy.
When spring arrives, the plant is already in its new home and ready to continue growing.
Add Structure to Your Landscape
Trees and larger shrubs do more than fill an empty spot. They can become the foundation of an entire landscape.
Depending on what you choose, they can provide:
- Shade for patios and outdoor living spaces
- Privacy and screening
- Spring flowers
- Colorful fall foliage
- Berries or other seasonal interest
- Habitat and food sources for wildlife
- Evergreen color throughout the year
- Height and structure in garden beds
September is also a helpful time to evaluate your landscape because you can still see what’s working and where something may be missing.
Choose the Right Plant for the Right Place
A successful planting starts before the shovel ever hits the ground.
Consider the amount of sunlight, available space, soil conditions, drainage, and mature size of the tree or shrub. That beautiful little tree at the garden center won’t stay little forever!
Planning for its mature size can help prevent overcrowding and other problems later.
Don’t Stop Watering When Summer Ends
Cooler weather doesn’t mean newly planted trees and shrubs can be forgotten.
After planting, water thoroughly and continue monitoring soil moisture throughout the fall. Newly planted trees and shrubs need adequate moisture while their roots become established, particularly during dry periods.
Mulching around the planting area can help conserve soil moisture and moderate soil temperatures. Keep mulch away from direct contact with the trunk or stems rather than piling it against the plant.
Plant This Fall and Enjoy for Years
A tree isn’t just another plant for the garden. It’s something that can transform a landscape and become more valuable and beautiful with every passing year.
Whether you’re looking for shade, privacy, flowers, fall color, evergreens, or a new focal point, September is a great time to explore the possibilities.
Stop by Sixteen Acres Garden Center and let us help you find trees and shrubs suited to your landscape. Plant this fall, give those roots time to get established, and you’ll already have a head start when spring returns.
