Fall in the Berkshires is more than a season for colorful foliage and garden cleanup. It’s also an excellent opportunity to plant. Trees, shrubs, perennials, and spring-blooming bulbs planted now can begin establishing roots before winter and get a head start on next year’s growing season.
A little work this fall can make a big difference when your Cheshire garden wakes up next spring.
Why Plant in Fall?
Cooler air temperatures reduce stress on newly planted trees, shrubs, and perennials, while soil warmed by summer can remain favorable for root development.
Fall planting offers several advantages:
- Cooler temperatures mean less heat stress
- Warm soil supports root development
- Moisture evaporates more slowly
- Plants can focus energy on establishing roots
- Plants are already in place when spring arrives
While you may not see much happening above ground, roots can continue establishing while conditions remain favorable.
Plant Trees and Shrubs
If you’ve been thinking about adding shade, privacy, structure, or seasonal interest to your landscape, fall is a great time to tackle the project.
When choosing trees and shrubs, consider:
- Mature height and width
- Sun and shade requirements
- Soil and drainage
- Spring flowers
- Fall foliage
- Berries or other wildlife benefits
- Evergreen versus deciduous varieties
Choosing the right plant for the right location can help create a healthier, more attractive landscape for years to come.
Add Perennials for Years of Color
Take a look at your garden while this year’s successes and empty spaces are still fresh in your mind.
Fall is a great time to add perennials where you need more color, texture, height, or seasonal interest. Planting now gives roots an opportunity to begin establishing before winter, so plants are ready to resume growth in spring.
Plant Spring-Blooming Bulbs Now
Want tulips, daffodils, crocus, and alliums next spring? Fall is the time to get them into the ground.
Spring-blooming bulbs need a period of cold temperatures as part of their natural growth cycle. Plant them before the ground freezes, following the recommended planting depth for each variety.
For a bigger visual impact, plant bulbs in clusters or drifts rather than spacing them individually throughout the garden.
Keep New Plantings Watered
Don’t put away the hose just because temperatures are dropping.
New trees, shrubs, and perennials still need adequate moisture while their roots become established. Check the soil during dry stretches and water deeply when needed until the ground begins to freeze.
Add a Layer of Mulch
Mulch can help conserve soil moisture, moderate temperature fluctuations, and reduce weeds around new plantings.
Keep mulch a few inches away from tree trunks and plant stems rather than piling it directly against them.
Think Ahead to Spring
Fall is the perfect time to look at your landscape and think about what you’d like to see next year.
Maybe you want more spring color, a new flowering shrub, a shade tree, or perennials to fill an empty garden bed. Planting now allows you to get a head start rather than waiting for the spring gardening rush.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I plant in Massachusetts during fall?
Many trees, shrubs, hardy perennials, and spring-blooming bulbs can be planted during fall while conditions remain suitable.
When should I plant spring-blooming bulbs?
Plant spring-blooming bulbs in fall before the ground freezes.
Do fall-planted trees and shrubs need watering?
Yes. Newly planted trees and shrubs need consistent moisture as their roots begin establishing.
Can I plant perennials in fall?
Yes. Many hardy perennials can be planted in fall, giving their roots time to begin establishing before winter.
Should I mulch new fall plantings?
Yes. A layer of mulch can help conserve moisture and moderate soil temperatures. Avoid piling mulch against trunks or stems.
Visit Whitney’s Farm Market & Garden Center
Get a head start on next year’s garden with a little planting this fall. Stop by Whitney’s Farm Market & Garden Center for plants, gardening supplies, and inspiration for your Berkshire landscape.
Whitney’s Farm Market & Garden Center
1775 S. State Rd. – Rt. 8
Cheshire, MA 01225
Open Daily
9 AM to 6 PM
