The gardening and plant world in 2024 is flourishing with innovation and renewed enthusiasm. Advanced breeding techniques have introduced hardier, more resilient plant varieties capable of withstanding diverse climates and resisting diseases more effectively than ever before. These advancements are being eagerly embraced by the gardening community, resulting in more productive and beautiful gardens. Additionally, the growing interest in sustainable practices has made gardeners more informed and enthusiastic about creating thriving ecosystems in their own backyards.The release of this guide is set to ignite excitement among both novice and experienced gardeners. Whether you're looking to expand your edible garden, enhance your landscape with stunning perennials, or add structural beauty with trees and shrubs, this guide provides everything you need to know about planting in late summer and fall. It covers the benefits, offers comprehensive plant variety lists with detailed planting instructions, and includes tips and tricks to ensure your garden thrives.This guide is designed to empower you with knowledge and confidence, ensuring your gardening efforts yield bountiful and beautiful results. The late summer and fall seasons are perfect for planting many types of plants, and this guide will help you navigate the process with ease.Gardening is more than a hobby; it's a way to connect with nature, create beauty, and provide for ourselves and our families. This ultimate guide is your companion on this journey, offering encouragement, expert advice, and detailed information to make your garden flourish. Dive in, embrace the planting season, and watch your garden come to life with vibrant perennials, majestic trees, and robust shrubs.
Key Topics
- Benefits of Summer, Fall and Dormant Season Planting
Understand why planting during these seasons can lead to healthier, more resilient plants.
- Comprehensive Plant Lists
Detailed information on edible and ornamental perennials, trees, and shrubs suitable for Canadian landscapes.
- Planting Instructions
Step-by-step instructions for planting, care, and maintenance.
- Tips and Tricks
Insider tips to help you maximize your planting success, including mulching, watering, and soil preparation.
- What to Expect
Detailed explanations on what to expect from your plants during late summer and dormancy, including normal signs of plant behavior.
- Science of Dormant Season Planting
Understand the science behind dormancy, how it benefits plants, and the difference between dead and dormant.
- Visuals and Statistics
Beautiful images and key statistics of recommended plants to help you make informed choices.
Summer is an excellent time for planting landscape plants, including most ornamental and edible perennials, shrubs, and trees. The long days and warm temperatures provide ideal growing conditions, allowing plants to establish quickly and take advantage of the abundant sunlight. While summer planting presents some challenges, such as increased watering needs and the risk of heat stress, these can be managed effectively with proper care. Ensuring success involves a few key strategies: prepare the soil well with compost to boost fertility, plant during cooler parts of the day to reduce transplant shock, and use mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Water deeply and consistently, focusing on early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. Regular monitoring for pests and diseases, along with timely interventions, will keep your plants healthy. Remember, most landscape plants can be successfully planted in summer, and signs of temporary stress, like wilting or yellowing leaves, are normal and to be expected. This is nothing to be alarmed about—plants are remarkably resilient and will quickly adapt to their new environment. By following these tips and maintaining a positive attitude, you can confidently enjoy a flourishing garden throughout the summer months.
Fall, and the dormant season, are excellent times for planting landscape plants, including most ornamental and edible perennials, shrubs, and trees. The cooler temperatures and increased precipitation provide ideal conditions for establishing roots without the stress of the warmer seasons. Fall and dormant season planting allows plants to enter dormancy and focus on root development, preparing for vigorous growth in the spring. While there are challenges, such as ensuring the soil remains workable and preventing waterlogging, these can be managed with proper care. Start by preparing the soil with compost to enhance fertility and drainage. Plant during the warmer parts of the day, and mulch generously to insulate the roots and retain moisture. Water deeply and consistently, especially if rainfall is insufficient. Understanding dormancy is key: plants will appear lifeless above ground but are actively growing below the surface. Temporary signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves, are normal and nothing to be alarmed about. Most landscape plants can be successfully planted in fall and the dormant season, benefiting from reduced transplant shock and less competition from weeds and a head start in the spring. By embracing these tips and maintaining an educated outlook, you can confidently enjoy a thriving garden come spring. Remember, plants are remarkably resilient, and fall/dormant season planting sets the stage for a beautiful, productive landscape.
Summer is a fantastic time to plant in your landscape, offering a vibrant and long-lasting display of color and texture. While the warm weather and abundant sunlight provide optimal growing conditions, successful summer planting requires some planning and care. Here’s everything you need to know about summer planting, from preparation and installation, to what to expect and how to manage potential challenges.
Benefits of Summer Planting
- Extended Interest Period:Planting in summer can extend your garden’s showy period, adding color and interest well into the fall.
- Immediate Impact:Summer planting provides instant visual impact, filling gaps in your garden and creating a lush, full appearance.
- Root Establishment:Despite the heat, summer installed plants will establish well.
Planting Techniques and Tips
Soil Preparation
- Amend the Soil:Amend the soil with peat moss, compost and other organically rich amendments to improve soil fertility and structure.
- Ensure Good Drainage:Plants need well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Consider adding sand or perlite if your soil is heavy.
- Feeding:Apply bone meal, azomite, fulvic acid or other organic nutrients to the soil to provide the plants with needed minerals and trace elements for robust growth and establishment.
Planting Process
- Timing:Plant in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce transplant shock.
- Watering:Water the plants thoroughly before and after planting to settle the soil and reduce stress.
- Mulching:Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Click here for full planting instructions
What to Expect
- Initial Wilting:Some wilting during the hottest part of the year is normal and to be expected. This is nothing to be alarmed about, as plants are resilient and will recover.
- Slow Top Growth:While the focus will be on root establishment, you may notice slower top growth initially. This is a natural part of the plant’s acclimation process.
Dividing Perennials
Summer is also an excellent time to divide certain perennials that have become overcrowded or are showing signs of reduced vigor.
Here’s how to do it:
- Choose a Cool Day:Divide perennials on a cooler day to minimize stress.
- Water Thoroughly:Water the plant well before dividing it.
- Divide and Replant:Use a sharp knife to split up the plant, taking care to keep as much root as possible. Gently tease apart the roots or use the knife to divide the clump. Replant the divisions immediately, keeping them well-watered and mulched.
Managing Challenges
- Heat Stress: To mitigate heat stress, ensure consistent watering and consider using shade cloth during extreme heat waves.
- Pest Management: Regularly inspect plants for pests and diseases, and address issues promptly with organic solutions such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Extreme Heatwaves:During extreme heatwaves potted plants can be kept in a shaded area and planted once the extreme heat wave has passed.
Planting in summer is a rewarding endeavor that adds immediate beauty to your garden. While the heat can pose challenges, remember that plants are hardy and adaptable. Signs of stress, such as temporary wilting or slower growth, are normal and nothing to be alarmed about. By following these tips you can confidently create a lush, colorful garden that will thrive for years to come. Embrace the summer planting season, and enjoy the vibrant, long-lasting display that well-chosen and well-cared-for plants can provide. Happy gardening!
Planting in the fall and dormant season is an excellent way to ensure a vibrant and thriving garden come spring. The cooler temperatures and increased moisture create ideal conditions for root establishment without the stress of summer heat. Even after plants have entered dormancy, they can be planted successfully as long as the ground is not frozen solid. Here’s everything you need to know about fall and dormant season planting, from preparation and planting to what to expect and how to manage potential challenges.
Benefits of Fall and Dormant Season Planting
- Optimal Root Growth:Cooler temperatures allow plants to focus on root development, leading to stronger, more established plants in the spring.
- Reduced Water Stress:With increased precipitation, there is less need for supplemental watering compared to summer.
- Less Weed & Pest Competition:Weeds and pests are less aggressive in the fall, giving your plants a better chance to establish themselves without competition.
- Spring Head Start:Plants installed in the fall or dormant season will have a head start on growth and will often grow more robustly in the spring.
Planting Techniques and Tips
Soil Preparation
- Amend the Soil:Amend the soil with peat moss, compost and other organically rich amendmentsto improve soil fertility and structure.
- Ensure Good Drainage:Plants need well-drained soil to prevent root rot. Consider adding sand or perlite if your soil is heavy.
- Feeding:Apply bone meal, azomite, fulvic acid or other organic nutrients to the soil to provide the plants with needed minerals and trace elements.
Planting Process
- Timing:Plant anytime in the fall or dormant season, as long as the ground is workable and not frozen solid.
- Watering:Water the plants thoroughly before and after planting to settle the soil and reduce stress.
- Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plants to insulate the roots, retain moisture, and suppress weeds.
Click here for full planting instructions
What to Expect
- Dormancy:After planting, plants will remain in a dormant state. Above-ground growth will cease, and plants may appear lifeless, but root development continues underground until the ground freezes deeply.
- Normal Stress Signs: Leaf drop and yellowing is normal and to be expected. This is nothing to be alarmed about, as it is part of the plant's natural process of preparing for winter.
Dividing Perennials
Fall and dormant season is also an ideal time to divide perennials that have become overcrowded or are showing signs of reduced vigor.
Here’s how to do it:
- Water Thoroughly:Water the plant well before dividing it.
- Divide and Replant:Use a sharp knife to split up the plant, taking care to keep as much root as possible. Gently tease apart the roots or use the knife to divide the clump. Replant the divisions immediately, keeping them well-watered and mulched.
Managing Challenges
- Water Management: Ensure consistent watering during dry spells to help roots establish before the ground freezes.
- Pest Management:Inspect plants regularly for pests and diseases, and address issues promptly with organic solutions such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Protecting New Plantings:Consider using a frost blanket or additional mulch to protect new plantings from extreme cold if an early frost is expected.
- Frozen Ground:If the ground has frozen, potted plants suited to your gardening zone can be kept outside without special care until your ground has thawed for planting.
Planting in the fall and dormant season is a strategic way to create a lush, colorful garden. The cooler temperatures and increased moisture reduce stress on plants, allowing them to establish strong root systems. Signs of dormancy, such as leaf drop or slow growth, are normal and nothing to be alarmed about. Plants are resilient and will focus on root development during this period, preparing for vigorous growth in the spring. By following these tips and maintaining an educated outlook, you can confidently enjoy a beautiful and thriving garden come spring. Embrace the fall and dormant planting season and look forward to the vibrant display your well-chosen and well-cared-for plants will provide. Happy gardening!
Plant dormancy is a survival strategy that allows plants to withstand adverse environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures and limited water availability. During dormancy, plants significantly reduce their metabolic activities, halting growth and conserving energy. This state is often triggered by seasonal changes in light, temperature, and water availability. Dormant plants can survive harsh conditions by relying on stored nutrients and reducing their physiological processes to a minimum. When environmental conditions become favorable again, they resume growth. Plants in a dormant state can be transplanted successfully because their reduced metabolic needs make them less susceptible to transplant shock, allowing them to establish roots and adapt to new environments without the immediate demands of active growth.
Gardening is a year-round endeavor, and the key to a successful and flourishing garden lies in careful planning and the right plant choices. Whether you're looking to enhance your garden in the summer, fall, or during the dormant season, understanding your gardening zone and selecting appropriate plants is essential. Here’s how to ensure your planting projects are a success with the help of our Zone Guide and Shopping by Zone Collections.
Picking the Right Plants for Your Gardening Zone
Gardening zones, also known as hardiness zones, indicate the climatic conditions of a particular area and the types of plants that can thrive there. Knowing your zone helps you choose plants that will grow well in your specific environment. Our comprehensive Zone Guide makes it easy to determine your gardening zone and provides tailored recommendations.
Click here to view our zone guide.
Shopping by Zone Collections and Using Filters
To make your gardening experience seamless, our Shop by Zone Collections categorize plants based on their suitability for different zones. This way, you can confidently select plants knowing they are compatible with your local climate. Shopping by zone or using the zone filters within collections ensures that the plants you purchase have the best chance of thriving in your garden.
Plan Ahead and Pre-Order for Best Selection
One of the best strategies for a successful garden is to plan ahead and pre-order your plants. This not only guarantees a wider selection but also ensures that you get the varieties you want before they sell out. Early planning allows you to coordinate planting times, ensuring your garden is vibrant and productive throughout the year.
Summer, Fall and Dormant Season Planting Recommendation Catalog
Now, let's explore some recommended plant varieties for summer, fall, and dormant season planting to help you get you started.
Embracing summer, fall, and dormant season planting offers exciting opportunities to enhance your landscape with perennials, shrubs, and trees. Summer planting provides immediate visual impact and benefits from the extended growing season, while fall and dormant season planting offer ideal conditions for root establishment and reduced weed competition. By understanding the unique benefits and challenges of each period, and with proper soil preparation, diligent watering, and mulching, your plants will thrive. Signs of stress or dormancy are natural and nothing to be alarmed about—plants are resilient and will reward your efforts with robust growth and vibrant displays. This guide empowers you with the knowledge and confidence needed to achieve a flourishing, beautiful garden year-round. We look forward to growing with you!
