5 Reasons Why Fall Is The Best Time to Plant

by Amanda

 

Although spring is often thought of as the best time to plant, adding perennials, bulbs, wildflowers and shrubs to the garden in the fall gives plants a head start for their first season. We’ve put together our top five reasons why we love fall planting.

1. Perennial Plants And Wildflowers Get A Jump-Start On Spring Growth.

Planting perennials and wildflowers in the fall gives them a head start on growth the following spring. The colder weather in fall causes less stress on your new plants, allowing for the root systems to establish themselves in a comfortable environment before the winter. In spring, root systems will start to grow once the ground thaws, long before the soil can be worked by human hands and any new plants can be put in. This head-start means early season wildflowers first-season perennials will be able to show their flowers sooner!

2. Provide Crucial Support For Pollinators.

With earlier blooms comes earlier nectar sources for pollinators! Birds, bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects can struggle to find food at the extreme ends of the gardening season. By providing early-spring and autumn nectar supplies, you'll be doing your part to support pollinators! This is important in protecting the human food supply as well, as we rely on pollinators for healthy harvests of fruits and vegeatbles to put on our own dinner tables!

3. Enjoy The Cooler Weather.

If the hot, sweaty weather isn’t for you, try gardening in the fall! The crisp, cool air makes for an enjoyable, leisurely experience working in the garden. 

 

4. Use Less Water.

Cooler weather helps to eliminate evaporation. Plus, shorter days mean that photosynthesis slows down as well, meaning that your new plants require less water than if planted in the spring.

 

5. Give Spring-Blooming Bulbs A Chance To Chill.

Do you love colorful varieties such as tulips, daffodils and more? These spring-blooming bulbs need to be planted in the fall, because they require a wintering-over time to provide gorgeous, cheerful spring blooms. (Not to worry - if you live in a warm climate, you can chill spring blooming bulbs in your refrigerator.)