Barbara Mrgich
Adams County Master Gardener

(9/14) We often see commercial nurseries advertise that "Fall is the time for Planting". Is this true? Is it better to plant in the fall, or in the spring? The answer to that question is that either time is a good time as long as other, important criteria are met. Let's start by saying that most perennials don't care when you plant or move them, as long as you give them enough water for root system repair and development. Trees and shrubs are more fragile, and moving them requires a bit more thought.

It is most important when transplanting any plant to keep its stress at a minimum. What causes stress in plants? Root damage, wind, cold, heat, lack of water, too much water, disease, and insect attack. With all that in mind, here are some factors to consider.

Root Damage. Whenever you transplant, you damage a number of the roots. This makes it more difficult for the plant to take up enough water to support its foliage or flowers, and will, therefore, require extra watering for a period of time. In the case of a deciduous tree or shrub, it makes sense to move it just as it loses its leaves. This will allow the plant time to repair and develop its root system again before it needs to also support foliage,

That plant may seem slow to grow and develop for the next year because it is busy establishing a strong root system. In general, a small plant will survive a transplant better than a large plant because the smaller plant has less bulk and foliage to support.

Heat and Drought. An argument for planting in the early fall is that the transplant has several months in the fall, and again in the early spring, to develop its root system before the heat and drought of summer come upon it. Still, anything newly planted will require regular watering throughout its first year.

Cold and Wind. If the plant is hardy in our area, it will not be the cold temperatures that kill it. However, the frozen ground makes it much more difficult for a young plant to take up water, while at the same time, the winter winds are very drying to the young plant. This is the reason newly planted trees and shrubs may sometimes require some winter watering in addition to wind protection.

Evergreens Should Be Planted in the Spring. Remember, trees with needles are not your only evergreens. The word "evergreen" refers to any plant that does not lose its leaves in the winter. Because of the drying effects of winter wind, evergreens have a much better survival rate when planted in the spring.

Mulch Helps Keep the Soil at an Even Temperature. In our area, our winter temperatures tend to fluctuate between freeze and thaw. This can cause a new plant to HEAVE right up out of the ground and die. The mulch will do the job of a constant snow cover by helping the soil retain an even temperature. Just remember to keep the mulch away from the base of your tree or shrub. Mulch piled against the trunk of any tree will cause the bark to soften allowing access for insects or disease spores.

Also, as the days of autumn shorten, and temperatures drop, our plants move toward dormancy. This is a rest period for the plant. During dormancy, the plant roots still require some water, although not as much as they do during the heat of summer. Applying mulch at planting time helps the soil retain moisture.

Beware of Over-watering. If there is no snow, a newly planted tree or shrub, may require some winter watering, but always check the soil first! If it is already damp, do not water! Our area tends to have a lot of clay in the soil. Clay holds water and may prevent good drainage. Never just continue to water any plant without checking the moisture level in the soil. You want the soil to be moist, not soggy! The average tree or shrub will drown in constantly soggy soil. It takes a special plant to survive those conditions. If you have a boggy area, think native. Many of our Pennsylvania native shrubs and trees will thrive in very wet soil.

Take Advantage of Discounted Prices. A big plus for fall planting is discounted prices. Most nurseries put their stock on sale during the fall to reduce their winter inventory. This is a great opportunity for you as the homeowner to take advantage of lower prices and enhance your home landscape.

In conclusion, timing is important when planting, but not nearly as important as proper soil preparation, and care of the plant after planting. In addition to the points listed above, take the time to do a soil test, incorporate lots of organic matter into your entire planting area (not just the hole), and always select the plant that likes the conditions your site offers. Following these steps will help insure a successful, healthy plant.