Fall Planting Guide: What to Grow Now

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change color, many gardeners might think that planting season is coming to an end. However, fall is actually an ideal time to plant a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers. The cooler temperatures and increased rainfall make it easier for plants to establish strong root systems before winter sets in. Plus, fall planting can help your garden bloom earlier in the spring. So, let's dive into the world of fall planting and explore what you can plant during this wonderful season.

Before we get started, it's important to note that the best time to plant varies depending on your location and the specific plant you're working with. Always research the ideal planting time for your region and the plants you have in mind. With that said, let's get started!

Cool-Season Vegetables

Fall is the perfect time to plant cool-season vegetables, which thrive in the cooler temperatures and shorter days. These vegetables can be harvested in late fall or early spring, providing you with a fresh supply of produce throughout the year.

Some cool-season vegetables that you can plant in the fall include:

• Leafy greens: Lettuce, spinach, kale, and collard greens
• Root vegetables: Carrots, beets, radishes, and turnips
• Brassicas: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts
• Alliums: Onions, garlic, and leeks

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are some of the easiest and most rewarding vegetables to grow in the fall. They prefer cooler temperatures and can even tolerate light frosts. To ensure a continuous harvest, plant successive crops every two to three weeks until the first hard freeze.

Some popular leafy greens to consider include:

• Lettuce: 'Buttercrunch', 'Red Sails', and 'Black-Seeded Simpson'
• Spinach: 'Bloomsdale' and 'Space'
• Kale: 'Lacinato' and 'Red Russian'
• Collard greens: 'Vates' and 'Georgia Southern'

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables are another excellent choice for fall planting. They can be harvested in the fall or left in the ground over the winter, depending on your climate and the specific vegetable. Plant root vegetables in well-draining soil and ensure they receive adequate sunlight.

Some popular root vegetables to consider include:

• Carrots: 'Nantes', 'Chantenay', and 'Danvers 126'
• Beets: 'Detroit Dark Red' and 'Chioggia'
• Radishes: 'Cherry Belle' and 'French Breakfast'
• Turnips: 'Hakurei' and 'Tokyo Cross'

Trees and Shrubs

Fall is an ideal time to plant trees and shrubs, as the cooler temperatures and increased rainfall help them establish strong root systems. Additionally, planting in the fall allows the plants to focus on root growth rather than top growth, ensuring they're well-prepared for the upcoming growing season.

Some popular trees and shrubs to consider for fall planting include:

• Trees: Flowering dogwood, redbud, and river birch
• Shrubs: Hydrangea, rose of Sharon, and potentilla

Flowering Trees

Flowering trees can add beauty and color to your landscape, and many of them can be planted in the fall. Some popular flowering trees to consider include:

• Flowering dogwood: 'Cherokee Brave' and 'Rubra'
• Redbud: 'Forest Pansy' and 'Royal Purple'
• River birch: 'Heritage' and 'Network'

Shrubs

Shrubs can provide year-round interest in your garden, from spring blooms to fall color. Many shrubs can be planted in the fall, making it an ideal time to add new ones to your landscape. Some popular shrubs to consider include:

• Hydrangea: 'Annabelle' and 'Endless Summer'
• Rose of Sharon: 'Honeybee' and 'Blue Bird'
• Potentilla: 'Fancy Pants' and 'Scarlet Bush'

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures begin to drop, it's time to embrace the beauty of fall and the joy of fall planting. By incorporating cool-season vegetables, trees, and shrubs into your garden this fall, you'll be well on your way to creating a thriving, vibrant landscape that will provide beauty and bounty for years to come. So, grab your gardening gloves and let the fall planting season begin!