Why Fall is an Amazing Time to Plant Shrubs and Trees

Many people think fall is the season gardening and planting winds down. It’s actually a prime time for planting shrubs and trees!

Growing new roots is a shrub or tree’s only task in the fall as they aren’t trying to make new leaves or flower buds like the do in the spring and summer. That said, it doesn’t necessarily apply to some tender annuals and perennials typically used for fall color. Fall plantings also don’t have the harsh summer Kansas heat to contend with.

As you clean your landscape beds in the fall, be thinking about whether the plant will serve your garden and nature well over the winter. Birds can forage seed heads or take shelter under perennial grasses. Tender annuals like coleus will likely turn to mush and be a mess to clean in the spring. After pruning what doesn’t serve your outdoor space well, you might find you have spaces you’d like to fill with shrubs instead of annuals.

So when in the fall should you plant? Approximately one month before a hard freeze is a great time to plant shrubs and trees so they’ll have time to establish some root growth before the ground really freezes. Frost on the plant’s crown won’t kill it but the plant does need time to grow roots before your zone experiences that first hard freeze.

If you think you’ve missed the opportunity for fall planting, no worries! Early spring is the next best chance. Mid April to early May in Kansas gives the plants time to get established before the summer heat kicks in, potentially causing burns and moisture issues.

Regardless of which season you add shrubs and trees to your outdoor space, remember, they always need a little love! Plant care in the fall is just as important as in the spring. Be sure to closely monitor your new shrubs’ water schedule and be on the lookout for signs of stress.

Have questions about plant care? We’re happy to help.