If adding a tree or larger shrub has been on your garden wish list, don’t wait until spring. September can be an excellent time for planting in South Jersey. Cooler air puts less stress on new plants, while soil warmed by summer encourages roots to establish before winter.
Plant this fall, and you’ll give your new trees and shrubs a valuable head start for next year’s growing season.
Why Trees Love Fall Planting
Spring isn’t the only planting season. Fall offers conditions that can make establishing trees and shrubs easier.
Benefits include:
- Cooler temperatures that reduce heat stress
- Warm soil that supports root development
- Less moisture loss than during summer heat
- More comfortable conditions for planting and landscape projects
- Time for roots to begin establishing before winter
Although you may not see dramatic growth above ground, new plants can be busy developing roots below the surface.
Think About What Your Landscape Needs
A tree or substantial shrub can do much more than fill an empty space. Before choosing a plant, think about what you’d like to accomplish.
Trees and shrubs can provide:
- Shade for patios and outdoor living spaces
- Privacy and screening
- Beautiful spring flowers
- Colorful fall foliage
- Evergreen structure
- Habitat and food for wildlife
- A focal point for your landscape
Choosing a plant for a specific purpose helps create a landscape that looks intentional and becomes more beautiful as it matures.
Choose the Right Plant for the Right Place
That beautiful young tree at the garden center will eventually grow much larger, so planning ahead is important.
Before planting, consider sunlight, soil conditions, drainage, mature height and width, and the plant’s proximity to your home, driveway, walkways, and other landscape features.
A little planning now can prevent problems later.
Don’t Overlook Larger Shrubs
Fall is also a great opportunity to add larger shrubs to your landscape.
Shrubs can create privacy, define garden spaces, soften foundations, and provide flowers, foliage, berries, or evergreen color.
Use them individually as focal points or combine several varieties to create layered landscape beds with interest throughout the seasons.
Water Deeply After Planting
Cooler temperatures don’t mean you can put away the hose.
New trees and shrubs need consistent moisture as they establish. Water deeply around the root zone rather than giving plants frequent, shallow watering.
Continue checking soil moisture throughout fall, particularly during stretches of dry weather.
Finish with Mulch
After planting, apply a layer of mulch around the root zone. Mulch helps conserve moisture, moderate soil temperatures, and reduce competition from weeds.
Keep mulch away from the trunk or main stems rather than piling it against the plant.
Plant This Fall, Enjoy the Benefits for Years
Trees and shrubs are long-term investments in your property. The tree you plant this September could eventually shade your patio, welcome visitors with spring flowers, provide brilliant fall color, or create the privacy you’ve been wanting.
Instead of waiting for another spring, take advantage of the fall planting season and start transforming your landscape now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is September a good time to plant trees in South Jersey?
Yes. Cooler air combined with soil that remains warm from summer can provide favorable conditions for establishing many trees and shrubs.
Do newly planted trees still need watering in fall?
Yes. Consistent moisture is important while roots become established. Monitor the soil and water deeply when needed.
Can I plant large shrubs in September?
Yes. Many landscape shrubs benefit from fall planting and can begin establishing roots before winter.
Should I fertilize a new tree when I plant it?
Focus first on proper planting, watering, and choosing an appropriate location. Fertilizer needs vary by plant and soil conditions.
How do I choose the best tree for my yard?
Consider mature size, sunlight, drainage, available space, and your goals for the tree, such as shade, privacy, flowers, fall color, or wildlife value.
Visit Bayview Garden Nurseries
Ready to add something special to your landscape? Visit Bayview Garden Nurseries to explore trees, larger shrubs, perennials, and everything you need for successful fall planting. Our team can help you choose plants that fit your space and landscape goals.
Bayview Garden Nurseries
2711 Zion Road
Northfield, NJ 08225
Fall Hours
Monday to Friday: 9 AM to 5 PM
Saturday: 9 AM to 3 PM
Sunday: Closed
Office Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM
Avalon Design Center
Planning a larger landscape project? Visit Bayview’s second location:
Avalon Design Center
2819 Dune, Unit 6
Avalon, NJ 08202