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SAVE YOUR SPOT!

Fall is for Planting!

Why Fall is an Excellent Time to Plant!

At Heeman’s, we believe fall is one of the best times to get your garden in shape for the next growing season. While most people think of spring as the time for planting, fall offers some unique advantages that can set your gardens up for success!

Cooler Evenings & Warm Soil

As summer winds down, the heat of the day gives way to cooler evenings. This is perfect for perennials because it reduces the stress that hot weather can put on new plants. The soil, however, is still warm enough to encourage strong root growth, helping your perennials get established before winter arrives.

More Rain Means Less Watering

Fall usually brings more consistent rainfall, which means you won’t have to drag the hose out as often. Mother Nature takes care of the watering for you, giving your new plants the moisture they need to settle in.

Fewer Pests & Weeds

By the time fall rolls around, many of the pests and weeds that can take over your garden during the summer have started to fade away. This gives your perennials a better chance to thrive without the competition.

Get More Plant for Your Buck

Purchasing plants in the fall that have been growing all summer can sometimes mean a bigger plant with more roots for the same dollar value going into the ground in your garden. Not to mention that there are sometimes some great sales to be found in September in most garden centres! 

Time to Plant Spring-Blooming Bulbs

Fall isn’t just for perennials! It’s also the perfect time to plant your spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. These bulbs need the cold winter months to trigger their springtime bloom, so getting them in the ground sometime from September to November means a vibrant display of colour when the warmer weather returns.

Perfect Season for Cold Stratification

If you’re thinking about starting plants from seed, fall is also the right season to sow seeds that require cold stratification. Some plants, like native wildflowers and certain perennials, need a period of cold to break dormancy and start the germination process. By planting these seeds in the fall, you’re mimicking their natural cycle and setting the stage for successful growth in the spring.

Tips for Successful Fall Planting

  1. Timing is Key: Plant your perennials early enough in the fall so they have time to establish roots before the ground freezes – September is an ideal month. Aim for a few weeks before the first hard frost.
  2. Water Wisely: While fall rains help, make sure your plants get a good soak when you first plant them. Keep an eye on the weather, and water if things are looking dry.
  3. Mulch for Protection: Adding a layer of mulch around your new perennials will help insulate the roots and keep the soil moist. It also gives them a head start when spring rolls around.
  4. Skip the Fertilizer: In the fall, it’s best to avoid fertilizing your new plants. Fertilizer can encourage new growth that might not have time to harden off before winter, making your plants more vulnerable to cold damage. Focus instead on getting those roots established.

Fall planting is a little secret that can make a big difference in how your garden looks next spring. So why wait? We would love to see you out at the greenhouse this fall!

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