Yes, you can plant perennials in the fall. Planting perennials in autumn can be a great way to jump-start your garden for the following. Not only will you have an established garden come spring, but there are several advantages to planting in autumn rather than waiting for spring.
For starters, the cooler autumn temperatures provide ideal conditions for plants to establish themselves before the first frost. Additionally, since most perennials are dormant during this time of year, they require less water and maintenance than if planted in the warmer months.
The folks at Mischler’s Florist and Greenhouses recommend getting perennials in the ground by mid-September to ensure they get established before the first frost. The date of your first frost can vary year to year depending on where you live; valleys and low-lying areas tend to experience earlier frosts, while those near Lake Erie may see frost later.
To ensure that your perennials have enough time to become established before winter sets in, it’s best to plant them as soon as possible. Read on and learn more about it.
Table of Contents
10 Reasons to Plant Perennials In Fall
1. Colorful fall — and spring
You get a seasonal twofer when you buy perennials in autumn. Perennials provide you with years of enjoyment in the fall garden, spring, and summer (and for a very long time afterward).
2. It’s more consistent in the fall
You need to be careful when planting in spring. Hard freezes and a few snowstorms can temper the sudden onset of spring. Hot, dry winds and searing spring temperatures can produce searing summer temperatures.
Autumn, on the other hand, does not evoke as much emotion. There is generally a warmer climate and less intensity of the sun. Plants are able to grow under these conditions.
3. Enjoy a longer growing season perennials
planted in the fall will have a longer growing season than in spring. Since perennials are dormant during the winter, they can take advantage of the additional daylight and warmer temperatures in autumn.
4. Perennials need less water
Perennials planted in the fall require less water than those planted in spring. This is because the soil is still warm and moist, making it easier for the roots to take up water.
5. Planting in the fall is easier on your back
You don’t have to worry about carrying heavy bags of soil or mulch when you plant perennials in the fall. The ground is already soft from summer rains, so you can dig a hole and drop your plants.
6. Perennials planted in fall require less maintenance
Perennials planted in the fall don’t need as much maintenance as those planted in spring. Since they are already established, they require less water and fertilizer to get off to a good start.
7. Fall allows for better root development
The cooler autumn temperatures allow for more time for the roots to develop before the ground freezes. This means that plants planted in the fall will be better established and more likely to survive the winter.
8. Better chance of survival
Perennials planted in the fall have a better chance of surviving the winter than those planted in spring. This is because they have had time to establish before the first frost sets in.
9. Fall-planted perennials are more likely to flower
Perennials planted in the fall are more likely to produce flowers the following spring. This is because they have had time to establish a strong root system before winter sets in.
10. More Variety
When you plant perennials in the fall, you can choose from a wider selection of plants than those available in spring. Many nurseries offer special fall varieties that are perfect for autumn planting.
What is the Water Frequency of Perennials in Fall?
Perennials are plants that come back year after year and require different water levels depending on the season. During the fall months, perennials tend to need less water than in other seasons. Their growth naturally slows as temperatures drop and days become shorter.
When watering perennials in the fall, it’s important to remember that the soil should remain moist but not soggy. Depending on the type of soil and climates your plants are growing in, you may need to water them once or twice a week.
If the weather is particularly dry, you may need to increase the watering frequency. Always check the soil before watering to ensure it isn’t too wet or dry.
How to Plant Perennials in Fall?
Perennials are plants that come back year after year, making them a great option for gardeners who want to enjoy their landscape without having to replant every spring. Planting perennials in the fall is an excellent way to give your garden a head start on the growing season. Here are some tips for successfully planting perennials in the fall:
1. Choose hardy varieties
Choose perennials that are known to be hardy in your region. This will help ensure that your plants survive the winter and start growing again in the spring.
2. Prepare the soil
Before planting, loosen up the soil and remove any weeds or debris that may be present. Add a layer of organic matter like compost or aged manure to give your perennials a nutrient-rich environment.
3. Plant at the right time
The best time to plant perennials in the fall is after the first frost and before the ground freezes. This will give your plants enough time to establish their roots and prepare for winter.
4. Water regularly
Make sure to water your newly planted perennials regularly, especially during dry spells or when temperatures are particularly warm.
5. Mulch
Mulching your perennials is a great way to protect them from cold temperatures and conserve moisture. Use a thick layer of organic mulch, like bark chips or leaves, around the base of the plants.
6. Prune
Pruning back perennials in the fall can help promote healthy growth in the spring. Remove any dead or damaged stems and foliage, and cut back the plants to a manageable size.
7. Fertilize
Fertilizing your perennials in the fall can help them to withstand cold temperatures better and encourage strong growth in the spring. Use a slow-release fertilizer for best results.
8. Monitor for pests
Keep an eye out for pests, diseases, and other problems throughout the fall season. If you notice anything unusual, take action immediately to prevent any damage to your plants.
Here are Some Perennials Plants to Grow in Fall
Fall is the perfect time to plant perennials that will bring color and life to your garden. Whether you’re looking for something low-maintenance or a burst of vibrant colors, wide varieties of perennials can be planted in the fall and enjoyed year after year. Here are some great perennial plants to consider for your fall garden:
1. Pincushion Flower (Scabiosa)
This long-blooming perennial has clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of blue, pink, and white. It’s easy to care for and attracts butterflies and bees. In addition, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Plant it in the fall for beautiful blooms throughout the spring and summer.
2. Coneflower (Echinacea)
This hardy, drought-tolerant perennial is a great choice for fall planting. It produces vibrant daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white that attract bees and butterflies. Coneflowers prefer full sun and well-drained soil. Plant them in the fall for beautiful blooms throughout the spring and summer.
3. Lavender (Lavandula)
This fragrant perennial is perfect for planting in the fall. It produces beautiful purple flowers that attract bees and butterflies and a calming scent that can help reduce stress. Lavender prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Plant it in the fall for long-lasting beauty throughout spring and summer.
4. Yarrow (Achillea)
This drought-tolerant perennial produces clusters of small, daisy-like flowers in shades of yellow, white, and pink. It’s easy to care for and attracts butterflies and bees. Yarrow prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Plant it in the fall for beautiful blooms throughout spring and summer.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
1. How late is too late to plant perennials?
You can transplant perennials anytime until the ground freezes in the fall or wait to transplant them in the spring. Fall is an excellent time to transplant herbaceous perennials because your plants will then have three seasons to establish a good root system before hot summer weather sets in next year.Â
2. Is it better to plant perennials in the fall or spring?
It depends on your climate and the type of perennial you are planting. In general, many perennials can be planted in the fall or spring with successful results. However, some plants prefer one season over another due to their natural growth cycles. For example, bulb plants such as tulips and daffodils should be planted in the fall for optimal blooming in the spring.
3. Can I plant perennials in containers?
Yes, you can plant perennials in containers. Container gardening is a great way to enjoy beautiful flowers and foliage without taking up too much space. When selecting container plants, look for varieties suited to your pot’s size. Be sure to use a soil-based potting mix and provide adequate plant drainage. Finally, clean your container plants regularly and fertilize them every two weeks during the growing season.
4. Do perennials need to be mulched?
Yes, perennials benefit from a layer of mulch in the spring and again in the fall. Mulching helps insulate the soil, retain moisture, and control weeds. It also adds nutrients to the soil as it decomposes over time. Choose a mulch that is organic and well-rotted, such as compost or aged manure. Spread a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of your plants, taking care not to pile it too high around the stems.
5. How often should I water perennials?
Perennials need to be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. The amount of water needed will vary depending on the type of plant and the weather conditions. Try to water in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler and there is less evaporation. Aim for 1-2 inches of water per week from rainfall or supplemental irrigation.
Conclusion
Planting perennials in the fall is a great way to add color and texture to your garden. Fall-planted perennials will have plenty of time to establish themselves before hot summer weather sets in. Be sure to choose the right type of plant for your climate and provide adequate water, mulch, and soil drainage. With proper care, your perennials will reward you with beautiful blooms throughout the growing season.
