A scene from a recent garden expo.
As the weather begins to cool yet the soil stays warm, seize the opportunity to give your landscape a head start for next year. Visit the Hall County Master Gardeners Fall Garden Expo September 25-26 for the latest plant arrivals, a broad selection of trees, shrubs, perennials, cool-season vegetables, bulbs, expert garden advice.
Experts agree that fall is the best time to plant. Here’s why:
- Plants and trees installed heading into late fall have a longer window to become acclimated in cooler temperatures.
- The warm soil encourages better establishment of roots without the stress of summer heat.
- Autumn rains can reduce watering demands but be sure to water deeply at least once a week.
- Pressure from pests diminishes as the weather cools off.
- The need for fertilizer is reduced.
- Above-ground growth slows down and allows the plant to focus on producing a strong root system.
Frankly, it’s also much more pleasant to work in the landscape when the summer heat has abated.
Proper planting techniques
Location, location, location. Match plants with their light requirements. Sunny means at least six hours of sunlight a day. Shady can range from deep shade – very little direct light – to lightly shaded – no more than 3-4 hours of direct light.
Consider the mature size of the shrubs and trees: will they outgrow the space? Are they too close to a fence or house? Will they require pruning to keep them contained?
Avoid planting too deeply; situate the shrub about a half-inch to an inch higher than the soil level in the pot. Plants tend to settle once they’re planted and there’s a danger of the plant’s crown or root collar below the ground.
Dig the hole about 1/3 wider than the container and a bit shallower than the depth of the pot. Most shrubs have shallow root systems; if they’re too deep, the plant can develop root rot.
Gently loosen the roots from the root ball and spread them out to encourage growth throughout the hole.
Tamp the soil down around the plant, then cover the fresh soil with a layer of mulch, avoiding the stem. This will help retain moisture and reduce weeds.
Water thoroughly and check periodically if the soil seems dry when you stick your index finger down about an inch. Do not overwater.
Want to become a Hall County Master Gardener? Applications open until October 3. Visit www.hallmastergardeners.com.
Hall County Master Gardener Fall Garden Expo
When: Friday and Saturday September 25 and 26
Where: Chicopee Woods Agricultural Center, 855 Calvary Church Rd, Gainesville.
Details: More than 40 vendors selling trees, shrubs, ferns, native plants, perennials, fall vegetables, bulbs, plus expert garden advice, speakers, food trucks.
Cost: $2 per person; children under 12 free
More info: hallmastergardeners.com, 770 535-8293
Note: Absolutely no pets allowed. Only Service Animals that meet ADA requirements will be allowed entry.
Photo: by Pamela A. Keene
