Planning for Fall Landscaping – JK Enterprise Landscape Supply

It’s been a bit of hot summer, or rather a brutally hot summer, so the lawn that we carefully planned for last spring might be looking a little less than cared for. Thankfully August is the perfect time to start planning the comeback of your beautiful lawn.

As we move into fall, we begin to experience more episodes of rainfall and cooler weather. A plant’s focus naturally turns to establishment versus growth during this period. It is the perfect time to start planting shrubs, perennials, trees and even grass, because the warm soil and cooler air allows these new additions to establish a strong foothold on your landscape. Some of the most beautiful yards and landscapes were planted during August through October, because after the fall season comes rest and dormancy during the winter. When spring arrives the plants revive and are well established and settled in their surroundings (similar to hibernation). When summer arrives the plants are more prepared and resilient to the handle stress of summer weather.

Here a few simple tips to rejuvenate your fall landscape.

Perennials

Plant perennials such as mums, sedum, asters and ornamental grasses. They will add color and vibrance to your yard now, but will also establish themselves for future beauty.

Pansies

Plant pansies and other cool weather tolerant annuals, such as kale. Pansies provide instant color to your landscape, and will generally survive the winter to bring instant brightness the following spring.

New Trees

Plant new trees or flowering shrubs. Use a liquid plant starter fertilizer when you plant so they will easily plant their roots in the warm soil. Many trees and shrubs are at their best during the fall season, showing beautiful colors and establishing their roots for years to come. Shrubs such as Viburnum, Itea, and Clethra provide vibrant color during the fall, while trees like Dogwood and Maple offer a show of colors.

Evergreens

If you want to provide some clean contrast to the fall colors, Evergreens offer the perfect backdrop. Evergreens also help preserve the environment by providing cover and protection for wildlife like birds in the landscape. They are also very hearty and will solidly establish their roots as the season changes to winter.

Mulching

Don’t forget to add a light layer of mulch, which can also provide some color, but most importantly will provide protection for plants during the winter season.

Bulbs

Plant spring bulbs during September and October. For easy-to-grow flowers, consider daffodils, tulips, hyacinths and crocus, all of which give you a burst of color in the spring. Plant in well-drained soil with some bulb fertilizer for the best results.

Weeding

Pull all of those nasty weeds that have started to establish roots.

Fertilizing

Finally, don’t forget to fertilize your lawn in the fall. A good fertilizer meant for winterizing will thicken your lawn and give you a very plush grass in the spring. Fall feeding is probably the most important feeding of the year.

Good luck with your preparation and planting. The other benefit of fall gardening is the weather is beautiful and you might actually enjoy it!