Why Fall Is the Right Time to Plant
As the air temperature rises in late winter and plants begin to leaf out, the ground temperature is still cold, so there is slow root development. As summer approaches, top growth slows but root development continues in the warm soil as the plant’s roots seek out moisture and nutrients. This root development continues until the summer heat raises the soil temperature and stalls root growth.
Once heated, the soil is slow to cool. As the air temperature drops in the fall, the soil remains warm but not hot, so root growth resumes and continues well after the leaves have fallen. In areas where soils freeze and remain frozen through most of the winter, root development comes to a virtual stop. For us in the Mid-South, the ground freezes and thaws throughout the winter, so new roots are developing most of that time.
Caring for Newly Planted Trees and Shrubs
As your fall plantings begin to develop new feeder roots, they may not be well enough established to fend for themselves, so you should still closely monitor their water needs. That said, they will be much easier to care for than if planted in the spring.
In most cases, mature plants have a root system that is three times the size of the plant canopy above the ground. An azalea with a 3-cubic-foot canopy will have a 9-cubic-foot root system when established. Always treat newly planted plants differently than those that are established in your landscape.
Planting Technique
When planting trees and shrubs, scrape off the top layer of soil and set it aside. Dig the hole at least 2 to 3 times the width of, and as deep as, the root ball. Your soil mix should be approximately one-third of the saved topsoil, one-third existing natural clay soil, and the balance an organic matter such as Cotton Burr Compost, Back to Nature Blend, or other organic soil conditioner.
Adding organic material feeds the natural fungi and microbes that live in the soil. This life is important in keeping plants healthy, so when you feed your plants, use fertilizers that feed the soil as well. We carry a wide variety of fertilizers that will feed both your plants and keep your soil thriving.
Planting in rich, loose, well-draining soil will help ensure healthy, thriving plants. We also highly recommend planting slightly above the existing soil line. This allows excessive moisture to wick away and protects the root system from overwatering.
Transplanting Established Plants
If you are thinking about moving trees or shrubs, fall is the best time. Transplanting, especially in our summer heat, is best saved for cooler weather. Moving an established tree or shrub can cause significant root damage, and waiting until fall will dramatically reduce transplant shock and help your plants re-establish.
Follow the same protocol as planting new trees and shrubs: use organic soil conditioners and compost to create a good, loose, well-drained soil, feed with organic fertilizers to promote healthy plant growth, and use a root stimulator to encourage strong, healthy root growth.