Planting isn’t just a Spring activity, it’s also great for the Fall. The cooler temperatures are easier on young plants. The soil is still warm and allows roots to stretch and grow as we head into Winter. And usually there is more moisture with fog and rain on the way as Winter months near. Plus, there’s always the bonus of late-season bargains and sales at your local garden centers where you can stock up for much less.
If you’re ready to get started, we’ve rounded up a few ideas for plants and planting tips to put on your list that will take you through Fall, Winter, and into a glorious Spring season.
Planting bulbs in Fall
With sufficient water, most fall bulbs will do well in drier climates like her in the Visalia area, including tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and other fall-planted bulbs. Once planted, they are low-care and early-blooming additions that will light up your landscape in late Winter to early Spring. When shopping at your garden center, choose firm bulbs without soft or moldy spots. Plant them with the root ball down and pointy side up in a place that will get full sun. Once you’ve got them planted, set your irrigation system times so the area gets watered at least once per week to keep soil moist.
If you already have mature bulbs from last season, Fall is a good time to dig them up, separate clumps by pulling them apart carefully, then replanting individual bulbs after enriching their soil. This was your bulbs can live and multiply for years.
Pansies are also a great flower to plant in the Fall. They are pretty with richly colored blooms, love the full sun of Fall and will bloom well into Winter. Be sure to deadhead them so they don’t try to seed, and you’ll get even more blooms and an elongated season.
Planting wildflowers
Instead of traveling to the desert or parkland, you can enjoy California wildflowers in your own backyard. Plant seeds now and you’ll have your own glorious display by late Winter or early Spring. Wildflowers can grow in garden beds and even in containers. All you need is to purchase a seed mix designed for your climate – you’ll find plenty at your local garden supply store. A little goes a long way, so if you have a small yard or just a few pots just one packet will do. For commercial landscapes as well, you can fill rolling hills or terraced walls with a beautiful display that will impress with just a few packets. One ounce of seed can cover 100 square feet, so plan carefully and be generous when you spread them out. Spread seeds over racked soil, cover them and water lightly, then let nature take her course.
Mulching in Fall
If you plant bulbs, wildflowers, trees or even vegetables in Fall, mulching is essential for helping them thrive into the new year. Be sure to remove all weeds and thoroughly water the areas you plan to mulch. Next be sure you apply the right amount. Mulch needs to be thick enough to insulate and prevent evaporation, but not so thick that it promotes disease or keeps plants from getting enough moisture or nutrients. A good rule of thumb is 2-4 inches deep for organic mulches and 1-2 inches deep for inorganic mulches.