Planting in late fall can be a great way to prepare your garden for the following season, especially in areas with mild winters. Many plants and bulbs benefit from being planted in the fall, as it gives them time to establish strong roots before the cold weather hits. Here are some plants and bulbs you can plant in late fall:
Bulbs to Plant in Late Fall (for Spring Blooms)
Fall is the ideal time to plant **spring-blooming bulbs** since they need the cold winter period (vernalization) to trigger blooming in the spring. Here’s a list of some of the best bulbs to plant in late fall:
1. Tulips
Planting Time: Late October to early December
Bloom Time: Spring (April-May)
Tip: Choose varieties suited for your hardiness zone. Bulbs should be planted 6-8 inches deep.
2. Daffodils (Narcissus)
Planting Time: Late October to November
Bloom Time:** Early to mid-spring (March-April)
Tip: Daffodils are hardy and can handle cold temperatures. They grow best in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
3. Crocus
Planting Time: Late October to November
Bloom Time: Early spring (February-March)
Tip: Plant these bulbs in clusters for maximum impact. Crocus flowers are one of the first to bloom in spring.
4. Hyacinths
Planting Time: October-November
Bloom Time: Early to mid-spring (March-April)
Tip: Hyacinths are fragrant and come in a variety of colors. Plant bulbs about 4-6 inches deep.
5. Alliums
Planting Time: Late fall
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer (May-June)
Tip: Alliums have striking, globe-like flowers and thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
6. Snowdrops (Galanthus)
Planting Time: Late fall
Bloom Time: Early spring (February-March)
Tip: Snowdrops are one of the first flowers to bloom, often even before the snow melts. They grow well in part-shade to full shade.
7. Scilla (Squill)
Planting Time: Late fall
Bloom Time: Early spring
Tip: These small, star-shaped flowers work well in naturalized settings and can handle cold temperatures.
8. Fritillaria
Planting Time: Late fall
Bloom Time: Early to mid-spring
Tip: Fritillarias, such as the “Crown Imperial,” add drama to the garden with their unique bell-shaped flowers.
Plants to Plant in Late Fall (for Winter and Spring Interest)
Some perennials, trees, shrubs, and cool-season vegetables can also be planted in late fall. These plants benefit from the cooler weather, allowing them to establish roots without the stress of summer heat.
Perennials for Fall Planting
1. Hellebores (Lenten Rose)
Planting Time: Late fall to early winter
Bloom Time: Winter to early spring (depending on the variety)
Tip: Hellebores are cold-hardy and can bloom even in snow, making them perfect for winter interest.
2. Hostas (for next year’s growth)
Planting Time: Late fall (after the leaves die back)
Bloom Time: Summer (with foliage emerging in spring)
Tip: Plant hosta rhizomes to give them a head start for the next growing season.
3. Ornamental Grasses
Planting Time: Late fall
Bloom Time: Late spring to summer
Tip: These add texture to your garden and can be planted now to grow roots and be ready for spring.
4. Brunnera (False Forget-Me-Not)
Planting Time: Late fall
Bloom Time: Early spring (April-May)
Tip: This perennial thrives in shade and has attractive foliage and blue flowers.
5. Sedum (Autumn Joy)
Planting Time: Late fall
Bloom Time: Late summer to fall
Tip: Sedums are hardy and drought-tolerant and are great for fall color.
Cool-Season Vegetables to Plant in Late Fall
1. Garlic
Planting Time: Late October to November
Harvest Time: Next summer (typically June-July)
Tip: Garlic needs a cold period to form cloves, making fall planting ideal.
2. Shallots
Planting Time: Late fall
Harvest Time: Late summer to fall
Tip: Shallots are hardy and thrive in the cooler weather, establishing roots over winter.
3. Spinach
Planting Time: Late fall (before the ground freezes)
Harvest Time: Early spring
Tip: Spinach can survive light frosts, and fall planting allows it to grow during winter for an early spring harvest.
4. Kale
Planting Time: Late fall (in mild climates)
Harvest Time: Late winter to early spring
Tip: Kale is frost-tolerant, and its flavor improves after a freeze, making it ideal for winter harvest.
5. Broad Beans (Fava Beans)
Planting Time: Late fall
Harvest Time: Early spring to summer
Tip: Plant beans in late fall to overwinter, giving them a head start in the spring.
Trees and Shrubs for Planting in Late Fall
1. Deciduous Trees (Maples, Oaks, etc.)
Planting Time: Late fall, after the leaves have fallen
Tip: Fall planting allows trees to establish roots before winter. Make sure to water them well before the ground freezes.
2. Evergreens (Hollies, Boxwoods, Pines, etc.)
Planting Time: Late fall
Tip: Planting evergreens in fall ensures they have time to settle in and can benefit from the cool weather for root establishment.
3. Rhododendrons and Azaleas
Planting Time: Late fall
Tip: These plants do well when planted in late fall, allowing them time to root before the cold of winter.
General Tips for Planting in Late Fall
Prepare the Soil: Before planting, ensure your soil is well-drained and amended with compost or organic matter. The soil should not be too wet or frozen.
Mulching: After planting, apply a layer of mulch (straw, leaves, or wood chips) to help protect the bulbs and plants from freezing temperatures.
Watering: Water newly planted bulbs and perennials well before the ground freezes to help them establish strong roots.
Late fall is a wonderful time to get a head start on the upcoming gardening season. Whether you’re planting bulbs for spring blooms or setting up cool-season vegetables, there’s a lot you can do to keep your garden active and thriving!
Plus, learn more about exclusionary and santitation practices to prevent pest invasions into your home!