It's Not too Late

Fall is Perfect for Planting

Niki K., Agriculture and Horticulture Program Assistant

Fall is here, and with it comes the opportunity to get some late-season planting done before winter arrives. Fall is a perfect time to think about planting any new trees, shrubs, or perennials and then watch them thrive next spring. It is also a good time to divide or relocate perennials.

As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, conditions are ideal for getting plants acclimated and ready to overwinter. Simply follow a few steps and take advantage of the natural shift of the seasons to allow the newly transplanted trees, shrubs, and perennials time to develop root systems before winter arrives. Local plant retailers may even be offering discounted plants before they wind down for the season.

Fall offers a lovely blend of lower air temperatures combined with residual summer-warmed soils that create an ideal environment for some root growth before winter sets in. All new plantings need time to become established before becoming dormant over the winter months. When planting in the fall, aim for September and into October to allow time for the plants to acclimate before the first frost arrives. According to the Kansas Mesonet site, the average first frost in the Lawrence area is mid-to-late October.

Once planted, it is important to make sure to thoroughly water any newly planted trees, shrubs, or perennials and continue to give them ample water once or twice a week unless there has been adequate rain. Continue to water regularly until a hard freeze.

The addition of compost and mulch are beneficial to

any new plantings, but this is especially helpful when planting in fall. Adding compost around newly planted trees, shrubs and perennials at time of planting will allow for a gradual breakdown of materials over the winter months. In the spring, many nutrients needed by the plants to grow will be available as the plants come out of dormancy. Fall planting can lead to a improved plant growth over the first year when compared to plantings done in the spring and summer, as the extreme weather often leads to plant stress.

Mulch is often underrated and can be useful for new plant establishment for a few reasons. First, a 2-to-4 inch layer of mulch, such as wood chips, stray or leaves, will help to insulate the new roots and protect them from the freezing temperatures. Mulch can also keep the soil moisture and temperature more consistent.

While it is common to fertilize new plantings during the spring and summer months, plantings done during in early fall should not include the application of fertilizer. The addition of fertilizer, especially nitrogen, will encourage new vegetative growth that will be vulnerable to the harsh winter weather and low temperatures.

Check out this link for more information on recommended plants for our area.

https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/horticulture-resource-center/recommended-plants/