Hi garden friends! Before we get started on fall planting, I wanted to share that I’m hosting a workshop at Primex Garden Center on Sunday, September 14th from 10 – 11 am. Over 60 minutes, we’ll stroll together through Primex learning about the impact of the best seasonal pollinator plants; I’ll share a season-by-season shopping guide for easy plant planning and together we’ll craft a one-of-a-kind pollinator-friendly garden sign to proudly display in your yard and maybe inspire your neighbor to join in! As always, no green thumb required. You can register for the workshop through this link: https://primexgardencenter.com/event-workshops-and-seminars/
Now to fall planting. Just because summer is winding down doesn’t mean your gardening adventures have to. Fall is one of the best times to get your hands in the dirt, whether you’re planting natives for next season or getting some cover crops going to boost your soil health.
Not only is the soil still warm enough to help roots establish before winter, but cooler temps also mean less watering and fewer pests. Plus, you get a jump start on next year’s garden while everyone else is taking a break.
Why Fall is Prime Planting Season
If you’ve ever struggled to keep new plants alive during the blazing heat of summer, you’ll love fall planting. The combination of warm soil and cool air gives plants the best of both worlds—enough heat to encourage root growth but none of the scorching stress. And since fall rains tend to be more reliable, you can often water less, making this season a low-maintenance gardener’s dream.
Best Native Plants to Get in the Ground Now
Fall is an excellent time to plant native perennials, shrubs, and trees because they can focus on root growth rather than putting out flowers or leaves. By the time spring rolls around, they’re ready to take off! Here are a few top picks:
- Perennials: Goldenrod, asters, black-eyed Susans, mountain mint, amsonia, and Joe-Pye weed. These fall bloomers provide a crucial food source for pollinators stocking up before winter.
- Shrubs: Serviceberry, winterberry, and spicebush. They not only offer berries for wildlife but also add beautiful fall color to your garden.
- Trees: Red maple, eastern redbud, and white oak. Planting in fall allows trees to establish strong roots before the hot summer months.
Cover Crops: Your Soil’s Best Friend
If you’re not planting new flowers or veggies this fall, consider giving your soil a little TLC with cover crops. These plants help prevent erosion, add organic matter, and keep weeds in check over the winter.
Here are a few easy cover crops to try:
- Crimson Clover: Fixes nitrogen into the soil and provides early spring nectar for pollinators.
- Winter Rye: A great choice for suppressing weeds and improving soil structure.
- Hairy Vetch: Another nitrogen-fixer that pairs well with winter rye for maximum soil benefits.
To plant cover crops, simply scatter the seeds over your garden beds and lightly rake them in. No need to fuss—let nature do its thing! Come spring, you can mow them down and turn them into the soil for a nutrient boost.
Pro Tips for Fall Planting Success
- Water Wisely: Even though it’s cooler, new plants still need water to get established. Give them a good soak when planting and keep an eye on rainfall.
- Mulch Matters: Add a layer of mulch around new plantings to insulate roots and retain moisture.
- Hold Off on Pruning: While it’s tempting to tidy up, many beneficial insects overwinter in plant stems and leaf litter. Wait until spring to clean up your garden beds.
Final Thoughts
By getting a head start on planting this fall, you’re setting your garden up for success next year. Whether you’re adding native plants to support pollinators or sowing cover crops to build healthier soil, you’re making moves that benefit both your garden and the environment.
Got a fall gardening tip or question? Send it my way at dearmediocregardener@gmail.com and don’t forget to sign up for Pollinator Pathway workshop at Primex on September 14th from 10 – 11 am. I hope to see you there and really look forward to meeting you 
Yours in Mediocrity, Edel
For more of The Mediocre Gardener’s column with Glenside Local, you can click here. For more on Primex Garden Center of Glenside, you can visit their website and Facebook page.
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