Fall Planting Season: The Perfect Time to Transform Your Outdoor Space

As the leaves begin to change color and the air takes on a crisp chill, many of us focus on cozy indoors. But did you know that fall is actually a prime time to transform your outdoor space?

It's true! Fall planting offers unique advantages for trees and shrubs. In this post, we'll explore the benefits of fall planting, provide tips for successful implementation, and share why a little planning can go a long way. So, grab a warm beverage, get inspired, and discover why fall is the perfect season to cultivate your dream garden.

Ready to update your yard? We can help!

Explore Our Packages

Why Plant in Fall?

Fall is often overlooked as a planting season, but it’s actually an ideal time to introduce new trees and shrubs to your landscape. Here's why:

Stronger Roots

Fall's cooler temperatures create an ideal environment for root development. While the plant's above-ground growth slows down in preparation for winter, its root system continues to expand. This extended period of root growth establishes a strong foundation for the plant. When spring arrives, it's ready to burst with new growth, resulting in a healthier, more resilient plant.

Less Water to Establish

One of the often-overlooked benefits of fall planting is the reduced need for watering. Unlike the scorching summer months when water evaporates rapidly, fall's cooler temperatures don’t have this challenge. This means that newly planted trees and shrubs require less frequent watering to establish their root systems.

Spring planting, on the other hand, can be a high-stakes game when it comes to watering. The combination of heat and rapid evaporation puts newly planted plants under stress. Consistent and adequate watering is crucial for survival. By planting in fall, you can alleviate much of this watering stress, giving your plants a better chance of thriving.

Contractor Availability

The hectic pace of spring home improvement projects preparing for a summer outdoors tends to subside as fall approaches. This means that landscaping and tree care professionals often have more open availability for new clients. By scheduling your fall planting project in advance, you increase your chances of securing your preferred contractor and ensuring your project gets the attention it deserves.

Ready to update your yard? We can help!

Explore Our Packages

Fall Planting Tips

Here are a few tips you should think about before you put a shovel in the ground this fall.

Plan Ahead with Your Design

To make the most of the fall planting season, you’ll need your design plans finalized in advance. Check out our blog post on how to create a perfect landscape design plan. Have a master landscape design plan so that even if you are phasing your plan you can work towards one vision and not have any costly redesigns. With a well-thought-out plan, you'll be prepared to hit the ground running when fall arrives.

Timing is Everything

While fall is generally a great time to plant, it's crucial to consider your local climate. You’ll need to research your region’s frost dates to make sure the roots can establish before the first frost. Research your region's frost dates to avoid planting too early or too late.

Choose the Right Plants

Focus on hardy trees, shrubs, and cool-season grasses for fall planting. Tender perennials and tropical plants are better suited for spring planting. In general, you’ll also need to make sure the trees and shrubs you chose for your yard are appropriate for your zone in order to give them the best chance of surviving.

Fall Bulbs: A Separate Story

While this post focuses on trees and shrubs, it's worth mentioning the magic of fall bulb planting. Daffodils, tulips, crocuses, and other bulbs planted in autumn will reward you with stunning blooms the following spring. Planting bulbs is a relatively simple process, but it's essential to choose varieties suitable for your climate and planting depth.

By taking advantage of the fall planting season for both trees, shrubs, and bulbs, you can create a vibrant and flourishing outdoor space that will bring you joy for years to come.

Happy planting!

About Tilly

Tilly’s easy online landscape design process has been embraced by homeowners across the country. Tilly breaks packages into the Front Yard, Backyard or Full Yard. We match you with a professional landscape designer who is familiar with your region to create the perfect custom plan for your outdoor space.

To start our process you’ll fill out a questionnaire about your property that helps our design team understand your goals, needs and existing landscape. You can add 3d renders, lighting plans or side yards to your design package. You’ll then meet with your designer on a video call, show them your space and discuss your priorities.

Whether you are just looking to add some curb appeal or transform your entire backyard - we have a team for you!