Ask the Experts, Seasonal Enhancements Autumn Planting is Key to Landscape Enhancements October 30, 2023 Autumn planting is often overlooked since many associate planting with spring. However, this season is perfect for landscape enhancements. Some of these improvements are important for your landscape’s health and longevity. Autumn Sets the Stage for Robust Root Growth Autumn presents the ideal conditions for root health. The warm soil, moderate temperatures, and consistent rainfall provide an ideal environment for root development. Remarkably, roots can flourish in soil temperatures as low as 45°F. This means that planting in early fall allows roots to establish themselves strongly, even when above-ground growth has stopped for the season. Planting in the Fall Minimizes Transplant Shock Fall is ideal for planting spring-blooming perennials, as well as certain shrubs and trees. Many of these plants enter winter dormancy, lowering the chance of transplant shock. Ensure that spring bulbs are in the ground before they freeze, typically from late September to early October. In milder climates, autumn offers an opportunity to plant perennials and annuals that do well in mild weather, bringing fresh seasonal colors during those months. Fall is Ideal for Dividing Perennials Dividing and replanting perennials during autumn allows them to settle in and flourish come the next growing season. Refresh Container Plants in the Fall Containers highlight your landscape’s focal points and maintain year-round color. With strategic placement and care, combinations of vigorous plants like flowering kale and ornamental grasses, paired with mums or pansies, can enhance your property throughout the year. Autumn: A Prime Time for Lawn Enhancements The fall season stands out as an essential time for lawn improvement. Whether it’s filling in thin patches of grass, introducing new sod, or transitioning turf, this season is essential for prepping your lawn for the upcoming winter chill. Key services for autumn lawn care include: Dethatching – Before moving on to other improvements, focus first on dealing with the surface layer of dead grass, also known as thatch. Removing this layer through dethatching is important, as excessive thatch can prevent roots from getting vital resources like light, water, air, and nutrients. Lawn Aeration – Depending on your lawn’s needs, aeration might be the next step. This method loosens the soil, encouraging roots to grow deeper and healthier. However, if your soil isn’t compacted or has a sandy texture, aeration might be unnecessary. Overseeding – Since roots usually grow most actively in the fall, overseeding is particularly beneficial. This process involves planting additional grass seeds to reinforce thin areas, enriching your lawn’s overall density and color. Fertilization – Paired with overseeding, autumn is also the perfect moment to fertilize. This ensures your grass receives the required nutrients, enhancing root growth, and preparing your lawn to emerge vibrant and lush after winter’s dormancy. Weed Management – Addressing weeds is important in the early autumn phase. Timing is essential; once weeds transition into dormancy, treatment methods lose their efficacy. Without timely intervention, you will have to get out there and do the tedious task of manual weed removal. Southern Botanical Has Your Fall Landscaping Covered While it might seem like an extensive list of specialized tasks, know that your local Dallas commercial landscaping specialists have you covered. From autumn planting, and general lawn care to tree, shrub, and flower upkeep, we’re on top of it. Our expertise extends to irrigation management and managing snow and ice. Plus, our expertise in landscape construction ensures your property remains inviting throughout all seasons. Ready to get started? So are we. Contact us today.