It might not seem like it, but fall is a great time to plant. In some cases, it is even better than spring or summer. Trees, bushes, perennials and bulbs can all be planted in the fall. In fact, we are typically out planting until the first snow fall.
Wisconsin winters are rough, but hot and dry summers can be even harder on plants. In the fall plants enter a dormant stage, meaning that the plants require less water. The air is cool, the soil is still warm, and the likelihood of drought is low. Roots will grow until the first frost, giving them the chance to establish themselves before the summer heat.
When planting trees, it is a good idea to wrap the trunks late in the season to prevent frost cracks, sunscald and animal damage. Just be sure to remove the wrap in the spring. While most trees and shrubs prosper when planted in the fall, fall planting of evergreens poses more of a risk. This is because evergreens lose more moisture from the needles they hold through the winter than their roots can replace.
This is the time of year (the only time of year) to plant any spring flowering bulbs like tulips or daffodils. Spring-blooming bulbs need a period of cold dormancy to bloom. It is important to make sure that you are planting the bulbs at the appropriate depth so the roots don’t freeze with the first frost.
So what are you waiting for? Get out there. Enjoy beautiful colors, and the cool, crisp air and plant. As always, if you don’t know where to start, or don’t feel like doing the work yourself, Landscape Solutions is here to help – just call or email.
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