The days are getting longer and catalogs are arriving in the mail and online Believe it or not, now is the time to think about your fall garden. Just as gardeners need to think ahead to get their plants ready at the right time, gardeners need to think ahead to be ready to buy the right plants at the right time.
Most of the plants we buy in the spring are for our spring, summer and fall gardens. I emphasize fall because I'm thinking more about buying perennials, shrubs and trees for fall color. First, think about the available colors and the colors you want to get. Then you need to think about the type, location and size of plants that will fulfill these desires. Finally, you should research the specific plants you need so you're ready to buy or replace them when they become available.
You should consider the entire plan to determine which trees you will need, giving trees the highest priority. It is best to plant plants in late fall or winter dormancy. Thanks to last year's leftover stocks, tree sellers are now getting new trees to plant. The sooner you plant a tree, the better.
Your next priority will be something that doesn't have roots. Planting should be done in winter to get a jump from dry and hot air in the future. Bare-root plants tend to be cheaper, but require special care during planting and transplanting.
Once you have identified all the plants you need, you need to decide if they are affordable. Local nurseries and garden centers offer a wide variety of products; However, if you are looking for something very specific, this may or may not be the case. If you find it early enough, your favorite cattery can order it for you along with their regular order. But you need to know this ahead of time because retailers need to order and receive their stock.
Finally, by making a plan and knowing at least a few plants you want and need, you'll be better prepared to search your spring list for plants that will shine in the fall. They will not bloom at all and may be overlooked during flower viewing where you focus more on spring and summer blooms.
I will be the first to admit that I did not properly plan ahead of time. So learn from me that if you do, you'll be ready to buy as many plants as you want and need without the added stress of deciding which one is right for you.
This article originally appeared in the Amarillo Globe-News. Garden boy column. Create your autumn garden now!
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