As the days grow shorter and cooler, our gardens begin to drift toward hibernation - much like many animals do. While growth above ground slows and plants die back, there is still plenty of activity happening beneath the soil as roots continue to strengthen. Autumn may appear to be a quiet season in the garden, but it’s actually one of the best times to tackle projects before winter sets in.
Planting Season
Fall is the ideal time for planting. Our region’s consistent moisture and moderate temperatures create perfect conditions for establishing new additions to your garden. Trees and shrubs, in particular, focus their energy on developing strong root systems this time of year rather than on leaves and blooms. Perennials benefit as well, even if the results won’t be immediately visible. Remember to water new plantings if rainfall is scarce - about once a week without rain, even when it’s cool.
Bulbs for Spring
Autumn is also bulb-planting season, an affordable way to make a big impact come spring. Bulbs can be found at garden centers, box stores, and even grocery stores. For a wider selection, websites such as Eden Brothers and ColorBlends offer excellent quality.
Bulbs are particularly useful in spots where other plants struggle, such as beneath trees. With the leaves off, these areas often receive just enough sun for early bloomers like tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and crocus. If deer are a problem, daffodils are a reliable choice. Popular varieties for naturalizing include the cheerful, multi-stemmed Tête-à-Tête (early spring), the classic Mount Hood and Dutch Master (mid-spring), the fragrant white Thalia (late spring), and the sturdy, late-blooming Actaea. Be sure to plant them in areas where you don’t mind the foliage lingering into early summer; daffodils need several weeks of green leaves after flowering to store energy for the next year’s blooms.
Fall Cleanup
Many perennials can be left standing through winter, providing food and habitat for birds and wildlife. However, some plants are best cleaned up in the fall. Once leaves yellow and flop, daylilies, iris, and hosta should be cut back to prevent pests and disease. Plants showing signs of powdery mildew or other issues should also be trimmed and their foliage removed. Additionally, cut back any aggressive plants that have gone to seed if you don’t want them spreading.
Leave the Leaves - With Care
The “Leave the Leaves” movement is gaining popularity, and with good reason. Decomposing leaves enrich the soil, suppress weeds, and provide habitat for pollinators and other wildlife - all while reducing yard waste. However, avoid letting thick layers accumulate, as they can encourage mold, fungi, and pests like slugs, snails, and ticks. Rake leaves away from delicate shrubs, and always remove leaves from diseased plants.
Tool Maintenance
Fall is also the perfect time to service your garden tools before putting them away for the winter. Clean and sharpen pruners, loppers, and other hand tools so they’re ready for pruning in late winter and spring.
A Season of Preparation
Cooler temperatures make fall a joy to spend outdoors. A little time invested in your garden now will pay off with healthier plants and vibrant blooms when spring arrives.
by Julie Novak
Planting Season
Fall is the ideal time for planting. Our region’s consistent moisture and moderate temperatures create perfect conditions for establishing new additions to your garden. Trees and shrubs, in particular, focus their energy on developing strong root systems this time of year rather than on leaves and blooms. Perennials benefit as well, even if the results won’t be immediately visible. Remember to water new plantings if rainfall is scarce - about once a week without rain, even when it’s cool.
Bulbs for Spring
Autumn is also bulb-planting season, an affordable way to make a big impact come spring. Bulbs can be found at garden centers, box stores, and even grocery stores. For a wider selection, websites such as Eden Brothers and ColorBlends offer excellent quality.
Bulbs are particularly useful in spots where other plants struggle, such as beneath trees. With the leaves off, these areas often receive just enough sun for early bloomers like tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and crocus. If deer are a problem, daffodils are a reliable choice. Popular varieties for naturalizing include the cheerful, multi-stemmed Tête-à-Tête (early spring), the classic Mount Hood and Dutch Master (mid-spring), the fragrant white Thalia (late spring), and the sturdy, late-blooming Actaea. Be sure to plant them in areas where you don’t mind the foliage lingering into early summer; daffodils need several weeks of green leaves after flowering to store energy for the next year’s blooms.
Fall Cleanup
Many perennials can be left standing through winter, providing food and habitat for birds and wildlife. However, some plants are best cleaned up in the fall. Once leaves yellow and flop, daylilies, iris, and hosta should be cut back to prevent pests and disease. Plants showing signs of powdery mildew or other issues should also be trimmed and their foliage removed. Additionally, cut back any aggressive plants that have gone to seed if you don’t want them spreading.
Leave the Leaves - With Care
The “Leave the Leaves” movement is gaining popularity, and with good reason. Decomposing leaves enrich the soil, suppress weeds, and provide habitat for pollinators and other wildlife - all while reducing yard waste. However, avoid letting thick layers accumulate, as they can encourage mold, fungi, and pests like slugs, snails, and ticks. Rake leaves away from delicate shrubs, and always remove leaves from diseased plants.
Tool Maintenance
Fall is also the perfect time to service your garden tools before putting them away for the winter. Clean and sharpen pruners, loppers, and other hand tools so they’re ready for pruning in late winter and spring.
A Season of Preparation
Cooler temperatures make fall a joy to spend outdoors. A little time invested in your garden now will pay off with healthier plants and vibrant blooms when spring arrives.
by Julie Novak
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