Why plant or transplant in fall? Several great reasons

Now that cooler weather has moved in, it’s a great time to think about adding new trees, shrubs and perennials to your landscape. Where do you have bare spaces? Where would you like to add more color or seasonal interest?

Fall is also a good time to move plants that aren’t doing well in their current location. Do you have plants in your yard that could use more (or less) sunshine, or plants that are crowded by other nearby plants?

Why plant or transplant in fall?

There are several great reasons to add new plants or move existing plants in the fall.

Less plant stress

Cooler fall temperatures mean less stress for your plants. Without hot sun to scorch them and hot temperatures to dry them out, plants will experience less transplant shock. They will suffer less in the transition from nursery pots to your garden bed.

Less need to water

Cooler temperatures also mean your new plants will need less water. You will need to water deeply when you first put the new plants in the ground. And if it doesn’t rain, you will need to water regularly to help them get established.

The rainy season is likely to start soon. When it does, your plants may receive enough water from the sky and you can stop dragging hoses around your yard.

Plants build strong roots

Planting in fall gives your plants a good jump start for the next season. In the fall plants are getting ready for winter by establishing roots. When plants develop deep and strong roots, they will be more likely to thrive during next year’s growing season.

Plant sales save you money 

Many nurseries are having end-of-season sales. Plants are less expensive, and they can rest in their pots for a few weeks before you plant them.

You can also save money by buying a smaller plant. After you plant it, it will have months before the growing season to develop strong, deep roots. Next year it will grow faster and bloom more than one planted in the spring.

Ideas for new plants

Some gardens look tired and spent this time of year. If you are looking for plants to add fall color, here are ideas from some of our favorite sources.

• • Fall Favorites: Trees and Shrubs, Swansons Nursery
  • Fall Favorites: Perennials and Annuals, Swansons Nursery
  • Fall Planting Guide, Sunset
  • Want Fall Color? You Don’t Need to Plant a Tree, Sunset Magazine
  • What to Plant in Your Fall Garden, Garden Design
  • Fall Plants, Great Plant Picks
  • A fall garden built around colorful evergreen and deciduous foliage will brighten the darkest days, Seattle Times
  • Native plants for fall color, King County
  • These plants will bring fall color and fragrance to Oregon gardens, Oregon Live

Considering big landscape changes? 

If you think your landscape might need bigger changes than adding or moving a few plants, contact us. Our expert landscape designers and installers can help you create a beautiful, easy-care landscape that will provide interest in all seasons and suit your family’s needs for many years.