Why Fall Is One of the Best Times to Plant

When summer starts to fade, many gardeners assume it is time to put their gardens to bed. But in Connecticut and across the Northeast, fall is actually one of the best times of year to plant.

Cooler temperatures, warm soil, and more consistent moisture create excellent conditions for trees, shrubs, perennials, native plants, and ornamental grasses to establish their roots before winter. Planting in fall gives your garden a head start and can lead to stronger, healthier growth when spring arrives.

Why Plant in the Fall?

1. Cooler Temperatures Mean Less Stress

Summer heat can be tough on newly planted plants. In fall, cooler air temperatures reduce heat and moisture stress, making it easier for plants to adjust to their new environment.

2. Warm Soil Encourages Root Growth

Even as temperatures begin to drop, the soil remains relatively warm. This allows plants to continue developing their root systems after the leaves have started to change.

While the top of the plant may appear to slow down, roots can continue growing until the ground freezes.

3. More Time to Establish Before Spring

Plants established in fall have several months to settle into their new location. When spring arrives, their roots are already developing, allowing them to focus more energy on new growth.

This is especially helpful when planting trees and shrubs, which benefit from having time to establish a strong root system.

What Plants Can You Plant in the Fall?

Fall is a great time to add a variety of plants to your landscape. Some of our favorite choices for Northeast gardens include:

Trees and Privacy Plants
Evergreens such as Green Giant Arborvitae and Emerald Green Arborvitae can be planted in fall to begin establishing their roots before the following growing season.

Perennials
Peonies, coneflowers, Black-Eyed Susans, bee balm, and other hardy perennials can be excellent additions to a fall garden.

Native Plants
Fall is a wonderful time to plant native species such as asters, goldenrod, milkweed, and other Northeast natives. Native plants can provide important habitat and food sources for local pollinators and wildlife.

Ornamental Grasses
Plants such as Little Bluestem add texture and movement to the landscape while providing interest well into fall and winter.

Hydrangeas and Other Shrubs
Many hardy flowering shrubs can be planted in fall, giving their roots time to establish before the next summer's heat.

When Should You Plant in Connecticut?

The best time to plant depends on the weather, plant type, and your location. In Connecticut and much of the Northeast, early fall through mid-fall is generally an excellent planting window.

A good rule of thumb is to plant while the soil is still workable and before the ground freezes. Avoid planting when the soil is frozen, waterlogged, or extremely dry.

Tips for Successful Fall Planting

A few simple steps can help your plants get off to a great start:

• Choose a location with the appropriate sunlight and soil conditions.

• Dig a hole that is wider than the plant's root ball.

• Avoid planting too deeply.

• Water thoroughly after planting.

• Continue watering as needed while the ground remains unfrozen.

• Add a layer of mulch around the plant to help insulate the roots and retain moisture.

• Keep mulch away from the trunk or stems of the plant.

Don't Put Your Garden Away Just Yet

Fall doesn't have to mean the end of gardening season. It can be the perfect opportunity to add new plants to your landscape, improve privacy, create a pollinator garden, or prepare your yard for a beautiful spring.

Planting in fall gives your plants time to establish their roots before spring — and gives you something to look forward to when the growing season returns.

Ready to plant? Explore our Fall Planting Favorites for hardy trees, shrubs, perennials, native plants, and ornamental grasses selected with Northeast gardens in mind.

Plant now. Grow stronger next spring.

Green Valley Garden Supply is a woman-owned online garden center based in Connecticut, offering plants delivered directly to your door.