As the leaves begin changing colors and falling off the trees at a rapid pace, it can be hard to imagine adding new plants to your yard or garden. However, autumn is actually the best time of year to show off your golden thumb.
Why Autumn?
There are quite a few benefits to planting during this season. Check out our top 4 list below!
1. Warm Soil
The temperature of the soil in your yard is probably not something you think about often (if ever). However, if you are considering planting, it is very important. Why? Because temperature helps regulate seed germination/growth and ensures that available nutrients get to your plants, causing them to sprout successfully.
2. Active Roots
While the Earth’s soil is still warm, roots can actively grow up until the ground starts to freeze for the next season. Getting an early start on planting also means your wildflowers will bloom earlier, and first-season perennials can actually show their flowers. When this happens, the Jones’ will want to start keeping up with you. 😉
Example: If you plant in the month of October, your plants have a substantial 7 to 8 months to grow and dig their roots deep into the ground. On the other hand, waiting until April or May would leave you will only 2 months before that Missouri summer heat hits us all.
3. Increased Moisture
Increased moisture is an amazing benefit to planting during autumn because it means less upkeep for you. The cooler weather eliminates evaporation, requiring less water than if they were planted in the spring. The shorter days also mean that photosynthesis slows down.
4. Get a Jump Start to Spring Growth
We hit on this a little bit already in point two, but spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils actually need to be planted in the fall and require an overwintering time to provide spring blooms.
Other Autumn Advantages
In addition to the scientific reasons you should plant before the autumn season ends, here is a list of other benefits to consider:
-Autumn’s cooler temperatures eliminate that need to take a second shower after a full day of planting in the summer heat.
-Late season is usually bargain time at garden centers that are trying to sell the last of their inventory before winter
-Plants love the fall, too. Their leaves aren’t stressed by the scorching sun like they are in summer, and cooler temps lessen the demand for water from the roots.
Winter will be here before you know it, so get planting!