Spring may be months away, but some of the best spring gardens actually get their start in fall. Cooler temperatures and soil that remains warm from summer create favorable conditions for establishing many trees, shrubs, perennials, and spring-blooming bulbs.
For South Jersey gardeners, fall is an opportunity to improve the landscape now while giving new plants a head start for next year’s growing season.
Why Fall Planting Works
While cooler temperatures slow growth above ground, roots can continue developing while soil conditions remain favorable.
Fall planting offers several advantages:
- Cooler weather reduces stress on new plants
- Warm soil encourages root establishment
- Plants can focus energy on developing roots
- Cooler conditions often mean less moisture loss
- Established roots give plants a head start in spring
Instead of waiting until next year, you can tackle landscape projects now and enjoy the results sooner.
Plant Trees and Shrubs
Fall is a great time to look at the structure of your landscape and decide what’s missing.
Consider adding trees and shrubs for:
- Shade
- Privacy and screening
- Flowers
- Fall foliage
- Evergreen color
- Wildlife habitat
- Landscape focal points
Always consider the plant’s mature size, sunlight requirements, soil conditions, and available space before choosing a location.
Add Perennials to Garden Beds
Perennials planted in fall can begin establishing their root systems before winter and return ready for another season of growth.
Fall is a great opportunity to fill gaps, expand existing beds, or add varieties that provide different bloom times, textures, and colors.
You can also use this time to evaluate your garden while this year’s successes and problem areas are still fresh in your mind.
Plant Bulbs for Spring Color
Want tulips and daffodils next spring? Fall is the time to plan for them.
Popular spring-blooming bulbs include:
- Daffodils
- Tulips
- Crocus
- Hyacinths
- Alliums
Planting bulbs in fall gives them the cold period they need before producing their spring display.
Don’t Forget to Water
Cooler weather doesn’t mean new plants can be ignored. Trees, shrubs, and perennials still need consistent moisture while their roots become established.
Water deeply around the root zone and continue checking soil moisture during dry periods. Avoid frequent, shallow watering, which can encourage roots to remain close to the surface.
Add Mulch for Extra Protection
After planting trees, shrubs, and perennials, add a layer of mulch to help conserve moisture and moderate soil temperatures.
Keep mulch a few inches away from trunks, stems, and plant crowns rather than piling it directly against them.
A Little Fall Work Pays Off in Spring
Fall gardening isn’t just about cleanup. It’s also about planning ahead.
Planting now gives trees, shrubs, perennials, and bulbs an opportunity to settle into the landscape before winter. When spring arrives, you’ll already have a head start on a healthier, more colorful garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fall really a good time to plant?
Yes. Fall’s combination of cooler air and relatively warm soil can provide excellent conditions for establishing many landscape plants.
What can I plant in fall?
Trees, shrubs, many perennials, and spring-blooming bulbs are all excellent choices for fall planting.
Do fall plantings still need water?
Absolutely. New plants need consistent moisture while establishing roots, especially during dry fall weather.
When should I plant spring-blooming bulbs?
Spring-flowering bulbs are planted in fall after temperatures begin cooling and before the ground freezes.
Can I still improve my landscape this late in the season?
Yes. Fall can be an excellent time to fill gaps, add structure, create privacy, introduce new perennials, and prepare for spring color.
Visit Bayview Garden Nurseries
Ready to get a head start on next year’s garden? Visit Bayview Garden Nurseries for trees, shrubs, perennials, bulbs, and everything you need to make the most of the fall planting season.
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
Visit Our Avalon Design Center
Planning a new landscape or outdoor project? Bayview’s second location offers another convenient way to start planning.
Avalon Design Center
2819 Dune, Unit 6
Avalon, NJ 08202