Fall Planting Tips:

A lot of people get “Spring Fever”, but here in the Pacific NW, fall is also a great time to plant!

Take advantage of fall clearance on shrubs and perennials or the Washington Native Plant Society fall plant sale.

Soil temperatures are cooler, but still warm enough for plants to establish a good root system. Deciduous trees and shrubs move best when they’re dormant or heading into dormancy, making it a great time to transplant landscape plants. Planting in the fall when plants are going dormant reduces their response to relocation and improves their survivability.

Fall is also a good time to divide and move perennials. There may not be new top growth evident, but their roots stretch out underground. Bigger, stronger root systems make for more resilient plants that can take our changeable weather in stride. Reliable rainfall and short, bright days encourage plants to grow roots and get established before next summer’s heat and dry.

Whether you’re putting in new plants or moving something that’s already a part of your landscape, fall is a reliable time to act. Just remember to put the “Right Plant” in the “Right Place” (site and conditions for its mature size).  Keeping plant needs in mind reduces their stress and reduces the likelihood of health problems.

Happy Planting!