Benefits to Fall Planting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Spring is not the only time of year to plant. In fact, Fall may be considered optimal because of the cooler air and ground temperatures, increased rainfall throughout the season, and promoted root growth to prepare the plant for spring. Planting early in the autumn season will allow enough time for the plants to establish their roots before the winter freeze, while the ground still holds warmth from the summer, and be ready for the next hot summer season.

With fall approaching, we have decreasing temperatures and daylight hours. When these become less and less, the nutrients that originally went outward from the roots to the leaves, now leaving the leaves and moving back toward the roots. This phenomenon is what allows trees and shrubs to show such beautiful fall colors.

Another great benefit of fall planting is that trees are under less stress this time of year, which allows them to put out more growth in their root systems.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As mentioned before, one of the best reasons for fall planting is an increase in rainfall. Adequate rainfall for a newly planted tree is approximately 1 inch per week. These levels can change depending on the size of the tree and surrounding environment.  The bigger the tree, the more required water.

When supplementing rainfall levels, there are a number of methods we can water the trees by hand. The garden hose trickle method, gator bags, or soaker-hoses are most effective. To learn more about these watering techniques and soil health, you can check out some of our video tutorials and posts on the subject.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Research has also shown that there are many benefits to planting large trees and shrubs around the home. One benefit is increased shade on a patio and in the yard, decreasing temperatures up to six degrees. During the summer this can lower your air conditioning bill, provide outdoor shade, and increase property value. During the winter months, the leaves will have fallen, and the sun will be able to warm the home and lower heating bills.

Much like a deciduous tree, a large evergreen tree or shrub will provide shade in the summertime and also act as a windbreak in the winter which further reduces energy bills.