As summer blooms begin to fade and the days grow short, many gardeners hang up their trowels believing the gardening season is also nearing its end. However, for those in the know, this time of year is not just a time for harvest; it's the golden window for planting native species. Here's why your landscape—and local ecosystem—will thank you for planting in the fall.
Maximizes Cooler Temperatures for Establishment
When you plant native plants in the fall, you’re gifting your plants the maximum ideal temperature conditions for establishment. For example, spring planting along the Wasatch Front usually happens around mid-May after the threat of freezing is over. This gives your plants maybe 1 - 1.5 months to establish before the arrival of scorching summer heat. On the other hand, when you plant in late August or early September, you get around 1 - 1.5 months of cool fall weather, a winter dormancy period, and then around another 3 months of mild spring temperatures; 4 - 4.5 months total for your plants to establish a deep, strong root system as opposed to 1.5 months to establish when spring planted.
Soil Temperature Promotes Root Growth
The soil in fall retains warmth from the summer, which is perfect for root development. While the air cools down, the ground remains warm and encourages root growth. This root establishment before winter ensures that when spring arrives, your native plants are ready to grow, bloom, and thrive much earlier than if planted in spring.
Natural Rainfall
Fall typically brings more consistent rainfall to Utah, reducing the need for supplemental watering. This natural precipitation helps plants settle in without the risk of overwatering or the need for constant watering. Partner this fall moisture with the rainfall we can count on in the spring and you’ve just set yourself up for minimal irrigation irritation.
Less Competition
By planting in the fall, your native plants get a head start over many weeds which often germinate in spring. This means less competition for nutrients, water, and space, allowing your natives to grow more robustly without the immediate threat of invasive species or aggressive weeds.
Wildlife Benefits
Native plants planted in fall will be more established come spring and summer, providing essential food and habitat for local wildlife earlier in the season. Birds, pollinators, and beneficial insects will find refuge and resources in your garden, contributing to local biodiversity.
Dormancy Advantage
In Utah, our native plants go dormant in winter. Planting them in the fall allows them to experience this natural cycle from the start. They'll focus energy on root development during the cool fall months, leading to a vigorous growth spurt when the temperatures rise again in spring. And if you’re starting your native plants from seed, sowing in the fall also takes advantage of this natural cycle by allowing stratification (a period of cold, wet conditions) to happen during winter, helping your seeds break dormancy come spring. Many of our native species require cold stratification to germinate.
Economic and Availability Benefits
Many nurseries, including Cache Valley Native Plants, often have sales in the fall to clear out inventory before winter. This means you can often purchase native plants at a discount!
Tips for Fall Planting in Utah:
Timing: For most places along the Wasatch Front, fall planting actually starts in the late summer. Late August or early September is perfect. Ideally, you should allow 4-6 weeks from planting time to the arrival of regular freezing temperatures.
Mulch Well: After planting, add four inches of mulch around your plants to retain soil moisture, reduce weed competition, and regulate soil temperature.
Water Until Ground Freeze: Even though fall brings rain, ensure your new plants are well-watered until the ground freezes.
Plan for Spring: Consider how your garden will look in spring and summer. Plant with future blooms and spacing in mind.
By planting native species in the fall, you ensure the best possible start for your investment in your landscape – and your investment in your local ecosystem. So, as summer winds down, gear up! Fall is not the end, but the ideal beginning for your native plant garden. Browse our inventory or schedule a consultation to get started on your fall native plant project.
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