Shrubs add character and style to your outdoor space. While you might think that it’s better to plant greenery when it’s warm outside, fall is actually the most suitable time of year to ensure healthy shrub growth. The season’s unique characteristics provide a friendly environment for your plants, ensuring that your yard will look fresh and vibrant by springtime. Here is what you should know.

Why Plant Shrubs During the Fall

The drop in temperature is beneficial to new plants because it prepares them for the cooler weeks ahead. By planting them now, you can be confident that your shrubs will not be shocked or lose their vitality when winter arrives. You’ll also give the roots enough time to establish themselves strongly, so they’ll be less likely to fall prey to the wrath of inclement weather.

Rainfall also picks up during fall, which helps nourish your new greenery and give them the moisture that they need to thrive. Make sure to continue watering them—without drenching the soil—throughout the season so that they’re better prepared to handle the winter freeze. You can also apply fresh mulch during fall, which will keep the soil for your shrubs warm throughout these cool months and protect their roots.

What Type of Shrubs to Plant

Some types perform especially well during the fall. The low scape hedger aronia is an effortless plant that adds beauty to your yard year-round. During the fall, you can expect it to brighten your outdoor space in rich oranges and reds. By spring, they’ll sprout white flowers just in time for the sun’s return. Its success is due in large part to its flexibility; you can plant it on dry or wet soil, in areas of heavy or minimal shade, and in both cool and warm areas.

Another option is the sunjoy gold pillar, which grows yellow year-round before transforming into an orange-red hue in the fall. By planting this now, you’ll enjoy brilliant growth thanks to a deep root system by early spring, and you can expect the autumnal hues to appear in all their glory later in the year.

Finally, try sprinter boxwood buxus if you want an evergreen that grows quickly and that you can use to frame your yard or fill in gaps. It handles lower temperatures well and will maintain its condition throughout warm weather.  
 

Colonial Gardens in Fairfield, CT, offers an excellent variety of plants. The family-owned shop has served the community for more than 30 years, and they’re proud to carry an excellent selection of garden supplies and greenery for all your needs. They offer houseplants, gardening tips, and different types of outdoor plants. Call (203) 259-2722 or visit their website for more information about their products.