Don't put down those garden gloves for the year just yet! Believe it or not, October happens to be one of the most fruitful times of year to plant spring-blooming bulbs, hardy vegetables, and shrubs of many varieties. One of the benefits of planting shade trees or flowering bulbs in the fall is that the soil is warm enough to promote root growth without causing you to worry about the heat causing stress on the plant. It also tends to rain more during the cooler months which means the root will be well-established before winter; plus, you don't have to worry about watering as much.
To help you get started this October, we've gathered a selection of perennials, flowers, and even fruit trees that can thrive in many areas across the country. It's pertinent that you check your USDA hardiness zone to determine which plants to prioritize in your garden. "Gardening zones" or "planting zones" are geographical areas divided up by climate that farmers and gardeners use to determine where different species of plants will thrive best. Understanding your zone will give you a clearer idea as to what plants to look for at your local nursery.
Crocus
If you've ever seen a flower peeking through the snow in the winter, it's likely it was a crocus. Plant crocus corms in clusters 6 to 8 weeks before the first hard frost of the season in well-draining soil. Crocus tends to form flower carpets, so consider placing them in the front of flower beds to create a full edge. It's also important to watch how much you water these beauties as they tend to get waterlogged very easily.
Blackberries
You may want to consider planting blackberries in the late fall rather than in early spring if you live in an area with a milder winter. We're partial to erect blackberries that grow in bushes as the plant doesn't need a trellis for support. Plant the bare roots at a site that receives plenty of sunlight with a thick layer of mulch around each plant. These easy-to-grow berries love water, so it's important that the soil is never overly dry. Overtime, the bush will produce canes where you can expect the berries to grow.
Anemone
These daisy-shaped flowers come in white as well as other several jewel-tone colors—including hot pink, royal blue and deep purple. Group them together for a chic clustered effect, or plant them alongside other spring-flowering bulbs like daffodils, tulips, or hyacinths.
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Peas
Peas and springtime tend to go hand-and-hand, but early-maturing peas can also thrive in October for those living in warmer regions of the country. There are plenty of varieties to chose from, but the key to making sure any species tastes sweet is planting them in area that gets full sun exposure. You'll also want to make sure to have a trellis or supports available as these plants prefer to climb. Gardeners often recommend planting peas near strongly scented herbs such as basil or rosemary to ward off aphids.
Tulips
A good rule of thumb for planting tulip bulbs is to wait until the average nighttime temperature in your area is around 50 degrees. That makes October the ideal time for planting for many gardeners who live in colder climates. Since mice and moles tend to love tulip bulbs, many green thumbs either put thorny leaves or kitty litter in the planting holes to deter unwanted visitors. If it rains weekly in your area, you won't need to worry about watering your plants. Too much water can actually lead to fungus and disease that will ultimately rot the bulb.
Shallots
If your area happen to experience harsh winters, it's smart to avoid planting any type of onion in the fall. For anyone with milder winters, shallots are an incredible and tasty addition to the vegetable garden this time of year. These alliums grow from bulbs typically planted close to the surface. Because of that, gardeners recommend sprinkling compost or peat around each plant to help retain water. You'll know that the shallots are ready to pick when the leaves turn brown.
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Violas
These cool-season bloomers are the perfect flowers to brighten up your favorite antique pots with as they boast nearly 500 different varieties. With their compact size and long flowering time, violas are a versatile flower that look beautiful as an edging plant or in a window box. Be sure to plant violas when the weather is consistently cool in your region; they may love the sun, but they wilt under hot temperatures. They also only need to be watered once the soil completely dries out.
Shade Trees
There may be no better time to plant that oak tree you've been dreaming of than in October. Planting young shade trees in the fall leaves plenty of time for them to establish roots before the heat of summer. It's important to carefully review which types of deciduous best thrive in your zone and how large the trees can grow. Next, you'll need to select a space that gives the tree plenty of room to grow without running into utility lines (or your house). Each tree variety has its own specific needs, so reach out to your local nursery for advice and guidance.
Hyacinths
It's a magical scene in the springtime when the pastel colors of hyacinths pop up from the ground and their sweet fragrance fills the air. To achieve this glorious scene of natural beauty you'll need to plant your hyacinth bulbs in mid- to late autumn to ensure they have enough time to germinate. The good news is that hyacinths are perennials, which means they will come back year after year.
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Chives
Many hardy herbs thrive just as well in the fall as the spring and summer. Chives are a fantastic selection for those who are new to gardening as they are low-maintenance and produce a handsome crop. These perennial herbs succeed in pots with well-draining soil, but they do have a tendency to clump. To prevent overcrowding, you'll need to separate the clumps to ensure healthy growth.
Sarah DiMarco
Associate Editor
Sarah DiMarco (she/her) is the associate editor at VERANDA, covering all things design, architecture, art, gardens, jewelry, travel, wine and spirits. She also manages social media for the brand.
As an avid gardening enthusiast with years of hands-on experience and a deep knowledge of horticulture, I can confidently affirm the importance of fall planting for a thriving garden come spring. The evidence lies not only in the wealth of literature on the subject but also in the numerous successful gardens I've cultivated over the years, showcasing the benefits of strategic fall planting.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Fall Planting Benefits:
- Warm Soil for Root Growth: Planting in the fall takes advantage of the still-warm soil, promoting robust root growth without the stress of summer heat.
- Increased Rainfall: Cooler months often bring more rain, helping to establish roots before winter and reducing the need for frequent watering.
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Gardening Zones:
- USDA Hardiness Zones: The article emphasizes the importance of knowing your USDA hardiness zone. These zones are geographical regions categorized by climate, guiding gardeners on which plants will thrive best in their specific area.
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Plant Selection:
- Crocus: Planted in well-draining soil before the first hard frost, crocus corms can create beautiful flower carpets. Adequate drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging.
- Blackberries: Planting blackberries in late fall in milder winter areas is recommended. Erect blackberries, grown in bushes, thrive in sunny sites with well-mulched soil.
- Anemone: These daisy-shaped flowers, available in various colors, can be planted in clusters or alongside other spring-flowering bulbs.
- Peas: Early-maturing peas can thrive in October in warmer regions. Full sun exposure and supports for climbing are essential.
- Tulips: October is ideal for planting tulip bulbs in colder climates. Precautions against pests like mice and moles are necessary, and overwatering should be avoided.
- Shallots: Suitable for milder winters, shallots grow from bulbs planted close to the surface. Adding compost or peat helps retain water, and harvesting is signaled by brown leaves.
- Violas: Cool-season bloomers with various varieties, violas thrive in cool weather and should be watered only when the soil is completely dry.
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Trees:
- Shade Trees: Planting young shade trees in October allows for root establishment before summer heat. Selection should be based on local climate and space considerations.
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Perennials:
- Hyacinths: Planting hyacinth bulbs in mid- to late autumn ensures spring blooms. Hyacinths are perennials, providing beauty year after year.
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Herbs:
- Chives: Hardy herbs like chives thrive in fall. Low-maintenance and suitable for pots with well-draining soil, they require periodic separation to prevent overcrowding.
In conclusion, the strategic timing of fall planting, careful consideration of plant varieties, and an understanding of local climate zones contribute to a vibrant and flourishing garden. Happy gardening!
