Fall IS Really for Planting

Since fall is just around the corner it is a good time to think about planting in your landscape, this is absolutely the best time of year for planting trees and shrubs. I'm sure you have heard the slogan, "Fall Is For Planting". Did you know that when you plant in the fall, that the roots of these new plants become so well established that the trees and shrubs grow better, and will not be as sensitive to weather extremes, next year? Growth the following season is much stronger when fall planting takes place.

Tree and shrub roots develop and grow all winter when the ground is not frozen. When this happens the root system gets a head start and has a chance to get out into the surrounding soil so when the growing season begins next spring maintenance of the new plantings is easier. The plants that are planted in the fall will not experience as much stress as those freshly planted during the growing season.

Be sure your new trees, shrubs and perennials are planted for best growth by not planting them too deep. The top of the root ball should be level or slightly above the surrounding soil so the plants' root systems can become well established in the soil conditions that exist in your yard. The hole should not be any deeper than the root ball but it must be 18" wider than the root ball so there is 9" of well-prepared backfill with root stimulator fertilizer (Espoma's Bio Tone Starter® is a good one) mixed in with the organic matter. Incorporate about 1/3 Canadian sphagnum peat moss, Grower's Secret pine fines or your own yard compost to improve the soil that came out of the hole. This will allow roots to develop quickly in their new environment. Be sure to slightly tamp the soil as you back fill the hole. Use the excess soil to form a saucer at the edge of the planting area to retain water. Soak the root ball, after planting, by allowing your hose to trickle until the hole is completely saturated. It is important to remove any air pockets around the root system. You may see some settling that will need additional soil. Mulch the planted area with no more than 2" of mulch to reduce evaporation.



What about planting some spring color now for early April? September through November is planting time for tulips, daffodils and many other bulbs that will give you color in your landscape early next spring. Be sure to plant in groupings for best color impact. A dozen or more bulbs of the same variety make a beautiful mass of color.

Send your gardening questions to info@meadowview.com and we'll work on getting you helpful suggestions.

Meadow View Growers

www.meadowview.com.

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