Now is the ideal time to transplant new trees and shrubs into your home landscape. Many garden centers and nurseries are advertising “Fall is for planting” and that is sound advice. For over 30 years your Polk County Extension Center has promoted fall planting as a preferred time over a spring planting time.

Why try fall planting? Unlike our neighbors to the north, our most stressful weather for plants is during the summer months. Fall planting is recommended for two main factors. First, the plants are going into dormancy with cooler temperatures and shorter days. This tends to lessen transplant shock on new plantings. Second, while the top growth of plants has stopped, the plant roots will continue to grow through most of autumn. This in turn will help plants survive our hot and often dry summertime conditions.

Plants can be transplanted anytime during the year but the amount of follow up care varies depending on the season. The optimal time to set out most new plants is during the month of October. Now would be a great time to start shopping and making your purchases.

If you have any questions about transplanting new trees and shrubs, the Polk County Master Gardeners are available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-noon at the County Extension Center in Columbus. The number to call is 828-894-8218.

 

— article submitted 

by John Vining