Fall is for Planting at Cedar Creek Lake

by Stephen Gent, Owner
McDade's Nursery
Stephen has 14+ years of experience in horticulture as Publisher and Marketing Director for Nursery Management and Production, Greenhouse Management and Production and Garden Center magazine. An avid gardener with a lifelong passion for plants, he enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with customers.

The record breaking temperatures in July and August coupled with water restrictions have caused serious plant damage to gardens in and around Cedar Creek Lake. There is a possibility some trees and shrubs will recover from heat stress and come back, but overall many homeowners will be looking to replace trees and shrubs in their landscapes.

Without question, Fall is the best time of year to plant - especially fruit trees, shade trees, shrubs and perennials. If possible plant now rather than in the Spring. The survival rate of plants is dramatically improved when planting takes place in October or November as the root system is established during the Winter months. Even though above ground the plants appears to be dormant (and they are) underground roots are active, growing deeper into the soil to provide a strong anchor for the whole plant. When Spring arrives the plant is acclimatized to its new environment and is ready to put out strong leaves, new top growth and lots of flowers. Planting in the Spring doesn't always give the plant time to develop the roots necessary to support it fully during the heat of the Summer.

Now is also a good time to replace Summer annuals with Fall color. Due to the warmer daytime and nighttime temperatures many cooler season annuals and perennials are only just becoming available. Pansies, violas, dianthus, ornamental kale and cabbage and snapdragons all provide beautiful seasonal color. My favorite is the chrysanthemum. It produces vibrant yellows, reds, whites and purples. For the best mums on Cedar Creek Lake, check out McDade's Nursery in Tool.

Make sure to adjust your watering schedule for the Fall. The recommendation is to water 2 - 3 times a week in the morning. Be sure to water long enough so the root system grows deep rather than staying close to the soil surface. Check your irrigation system for leaks, clogs or breakages to make sure water is getting to all areas in your lawns and beds.

Check your garden regularly for insects and fungi. Plants that have suffered heat stress during the summer are more prone to disease. If you find a problem, take care of it as soon as possible using a recommended insecticide or fungicide. Both organic and non-organic products are available to stop and protect against insects and fungi.

Fall is also a good time of year to apply a fresh layer of mulch. Mulching helps reduce water evaporation and keeps the soil temperature warmer during winter to help plants survive frost and snow conditions. Mulching also saves on watering and always improves the appearance of your landscape.

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