Your Comprehensive Fall Planting Guide

Unlock the Secrets to Successful Fall Planting

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures dip, many gardeners might feel it’s time to put away their trowels and call it a season. However, fall is one of the best times to plant! At Carrington Lawn & Landscape, we believe that the Autumn season in Middleton provides a unique opportunity to give your garden a head start for the following spring. Here’s your comprehensive fall planting guide to help you make the most of this crucial planting period.

Why Fall is Ideal for Planting

1. Cooler Temperatures Encourage Root Growth

In fall, the cooler air temperatures signal plants to shift their focus from above-ground (vegetative) growth to establishing strong root systems. This root development is crucial for a plant’s future success. As the soil remains warm, it allows roots to grow and expand before the ground freezes. By spring, your plants will be well-established and ready to soak up the spring melt and burst into vibrant growth.

2. Less Stress on Plants

Fall planting reduces the stress on plants that can occur during the hot, dry summer months. With cooler temperatures and more consistent moisture, plants are less likely to suffer from transplant shock. This means they can settle in more comfortably and get off to a strong start come spring.

 

Tip from the Experts: Carrington Lawn & Landscape experts recommend that clients continue watering their plants well into the cooler months, regardless of whether they were installed in spring, summer, or fall. Proper watering ensures that plants are well-hydrated before winter sets in. As temperatures drop, soil retains moisture longer, allowing plants to absorb the water they need as they transition into dormancy. Continue to water until the first hard frost, then check the plant and ground conditions. If subsequent temperatures have risen, continue to water until the next hard frost. Our experts have a deep understanding of our local climate to help guide you through the installation of new trees, shrubs, and perennials this fall.

 

 

3. Extended Growing Season

By planting in the fall, you give your garden a jump start. While others wait until spring to plant, your garden will already have an established and insulated root system, allowing plants to soak up the early spring snowmelt and grow faster. This head start can lead to stronger growth and more robust blooms.

Choosing the Right Plants

1. Consider Soil and Sun Conditions

Before picking your plants, take a moment to check out your soil and how much sunlight your landscape gets. It’s important to match your plant choices to the conditions they’ll be growing in. For instance, if you’ve got a shady spot, go for plants that thrive in low light. On the other hand, if your garden gets plenty of sunshine, pick plants that can handle the heat.

Fall is also a fantastic time to give your soil a little extra love. Adding compost or other additives now helps boost the soil’s health and structure, making it perfect for both your new plants and your garden as a whole. Regardless of the season, we always install a Diehard™ Transplant amendment product with new plantings. This product enhances soil conditions and reduces transplant stress.

2. Hardy Plants

When choosing plants for your landscape or garden, select hardy varieties that thrive in the local climate. At Carrington Lawn & Landscape, we provide a range of locally grown perennials, shrubs, and trees that are well-acclimated to Wisconsin winters. Installing plants that are not rated for our local Wisconsin hardiness zone affects their durability.

In our region, you can safely plant trees, shrubs, and perennials until mid-October. After this time, it’s advisable to wait on planting smaller plants due to their vulnerability to freeze-thaw cycles. However, larger potted plants and balled and burlap-wrapped nursery stock can typically be planted until mid-November, or even later if the weather remains warm.

Preparing for Planting

1. Test and Improve Your Soil

Healthy soil is the foundation of a successful lawn and garden. If soil conditions are a concern, test your soil to check its pH and nutrient levels before planting. Amend the soil, as necessary, with organic matter, such as peat moss or compost, to improve its structure and fertility.

2. Dig Properly

When planting, dig a hole that is twice as wide as the plant’s root ball but only as deep. This allows the roots to spread out more easily and establish a strong network. 

3. Water Wisely

Although many homeowners assume the frequency of watering should decrease in the fall, it’s quite the opposite. Water your plants well before the ground freezes, and continue to water frequently until the first hard frost. This helps plants develop strong roots and prepares them for winter. Plants can also suffer from over-watering, so be sure to test the soil conditions before each watering effort.

Common Concerns and Solutions

1. Frost Sensitivity

Fall planting can raise concerns about frost damage. However, plants that are properly planted and acclimated are less vulnerable to frost. Remember, many plants are grown locally and already accustomed to our climate and can handle the seasonal changes.

2. Watering Challenges

Once the weather turns cold, it can be difficult to water plants. To address this, make sure your garden beds are well-watered before winter, and use mulch to help retain moisture. Proper watering throughout the fall allows plants more time to absorb what they need heading into dormancy when the temperatures begin to dip. Additionally, consider installing a rain gauge to monitor water levels and adjust as needed.

Your Local Fall Planting Guide Experts

Fall planting is an excellent way to prepare your garden for a spectacular spring. By understanding the benefits of planting in cooler weather, choosing the right plants, and following proper planting and winterizing techniques, you can set your garden up for success. At Carrington Lawn & Landscape in Middleton, we’re here to help you through every step mentioned in this fall planting guide.

For more tips and personalized advice, contact Carrington Lawn & Landscape today. We’re dedicated to helping you create and maintain a beautiful lawn and garden year-round.