COUNTRY GARDENING Fall is the time to plant trees and shrubs By Trisha Gedon, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service
Photo by David Hillock, OSU Cooperative Extension. 46 — Oklahoma Country
s the weather begins to cool off and we anticipate the arrival of fall, some people may have their eye on the gridiron and football season. Gardeners, however, find this time of year provides optimum conditions for plant growth. With a better likelihood for fall rains, coupled with warm soil temperatures, the fall season makes for great root development of many landscape plants, said David Hillock, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension consumer horticulturist. “Trees and shrubs add so much visual interest to a landscape,” Hillock said. “In addition, a good landscape can increase the value of your real estate. And as an added bonus, trees have a great impact on the living environment. For homeowners who are looking to improve and expand their landscapes, now is the perfect time to add to your landscape.” When the air begins to cool down and the days get shorter, root growth becomes a priority for plants as opposed to shoot growth. Roots will continue to grow in the soil as long as the soil temperature is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Planting in the fall will give trees and shrubs a head start on next year’s growing season. One downside, however, of planting in the fall, is your local garden center or nursery is probably reducing their inventory for winter, so your selections may be limited. The upside, though, is you often can find good end-of-theyear deals. “When it comes time to choose what trees to plant, research suggests early fall planting is best for container-grown shrubs, balled and burlapped shade and ornamental trees as well as pines,” he said. “Save the bare-root plants and broadleaf evergreens for spring planting. “While you’re at the garden center, be sure to check out cool season plants, such