The summer heat has made springtime seem like a distant memory.  Though a lot of gardeners start their beds early in the year, the fall is an excellent time to plant as well. The air temperature is milder, and the ground is still warm which makes for excellent growing conditions, especially for trees and shrubs.

Much of a plant’s root growth happens in the summer and fall, helping it establish.  A plant with an established root system is much hardier when it comes to standing up to heat and wind the following year. There is also much more dependable rain fall and ground moisture (plus, you don’t have to water as much since plants are gearing up for winter dormancy).  Additionally, populations of certain insects and pests diminish with cooler temps.

So get out your garden gloves and galoshes – there’s planting to be done!