· Gardening · Ortiz Landscaping & Tree Services
Spring gets all the excitement at the garden center, but for most trees, shrubs and perennials in central New Jersey, early fall is the better time to plant. The top growth is slowing down, so a new plant can put its energy into roots instead of leaves.
Why fall planting works
In September and October the soil is still warm from summer, which keeps roots growing, while the air is cooler, so plants lose less water through their leaves. Fall rain is usually more reliable than July and August rain, and there are no heat waves to stress a plant that has not rooted in yet. A shrub planted in fall gets several weeks of root growth before the ground cools, then wakes up in spring already established.
What to plant
- Trees and shrubs: most deciduous trees and shrubs do well planted from September into late October.
- Perennials: plant or divide spring- and summer-blooming perennials early in the season so they have time to settle in.
- Evergreens: plant these earlier rather than later. Their leaves keep losing moisture all winter, so they need roots in place before the ground gets cold.
- Spring bulbs: daffodils, tulips and crocus go in once the soil has cooled, typically October into November.
How to plant it right
Dig the hole two to three times as wide as the root ball but no deeper. The top of the root ball should sit level with, or slightly above, the surrounding soil. Loosen circling roots, backfill with the soil you removed, and water deeply to settle it. Finish with two to three inches of mulch over the root zone, keeping it a few inches away from the stem or trunk.
Watering until the ground freezes
New plantings need regular water until the ground freezes, even when the weather feels cool. A slow, deep soak once or twice a week when there is no rain is far better than a quick daily sprinkle. Evergreens in particular benefit from a good drink before winter sets in.
What to skip in fall
Hold off on heavy pruning of new plants and avoid fertilizing woody plants late in the season, which can push tender new growth just before frost. Let the plant focus on rooting in.
Planning new beds or replacing tired foundation plantings? Our seeding and planting and mulching services cover both. Call (609) 454-7355 or request a free quote.