Many gardeners think of fall as the end of the growing season, but it's also a chance to get next year's garden started. Planting trees, shrubs, and perennials in early autumn can give them time to begin settling in while you enjoy the crisp, colorful days of fall. The key is choosing suitable plants and giving them enough time and care before winter.
More Energy for Roots
As top growth slows and summer heat eases, conditions can become more favorable for root growth. Soil holds warmth after the air begins to cool, giving new plantings an opportunity to grow roots into the surrounding ground. That head start can help support next season's growth, although trees and shrubs need continued care beyond their first fall to become established.
Less Heat, More Manageable Watering
Cooler days can reduce water loss, making fall planting easier to manage than planting during summer heat. Autumn rain can help, too, but it isn't a substitute for checking your plants. A dry, windy stretch can still dry out a newly planted root ball.
Water thoroughly when planting, then check moisture in the root ball and nearby soil regularly. Water slowly at the roots when needed, allowing moisture to soak in rather than run off. Aim for moist soil, not constantly soggy soil, and adjust to rainfall and drainage. Keep checking through fall until the ground freezes. For more seasonal guidance, read our fall watering advice.
A Head Start on Next Year's Garden
Fall planting lets you fill an empty border, replace a struggling plant, or begin a new garden before the spring rush. It also gives you a useful view of the season just past: where you wanted more shade, which beds needed color, and where a shrub could add privacy.
Think of improved flowering as a possible reward rather than a promise. Bloom timing and abundance depend on the variety, weather, growing conditions, and how well the plant settles in. A healthy start is the goal; some plants need more than one growing season to show their full potential.
When to Plant in Maine
Earlier in fall is generally better than waiting until the last workable day. For trees and shrubs, aim to allow roughly six weeks before the ground freezes for roots to begin growing into their new site. The Maine Forest Service recommends planting trees by around Indigenous Peoples' Day as a general guideline, with earlier planting preferable in colder locations.
That date is a planning guide, not a guarantee. Coastal and inland gardens can have different conditions, and the first air frost is not the same as frozen soil. Plant choice matters, too. Ask about the best timing for your particular tree, shrub, or perennial, especially if you're shopping late in the season. If the establishment window is short or the site is wet or exposed, spring may be the better choice.
Give New Plants a Good Start
- Match the plant to the place. Check winter hardiness, sunlight, drainage, and mature size before choosing.
- Plant at the right depth. For trees and shrubs, dig a wide hole and keep the root flare at or slightly above ground level. Follow the recommended planting depth for each perennial.
- Check container roots. Remove the pot and address circling or tightly matted roots before planting. Ask our team for help if you're unsure how.
- Mulch carefully. Add 2 to 3 inches around trees and shrubs, keeping mulch away from trunks, stems, and perennial crowns.
- Plan for follow-up care. Resume moisture checks in spring. New trees and shrubs need attention over several growing seasons, not just at planting time.
Make the Most of the Season
Don't pack away the gardening gloves just yet. With thoughtful timing and a little follow-through, fall can be a rewarding time to improve your landscape. Visit Estabrook's with photos of your planting area and notes about its sun and soil, or contact our team for help choosing plants that fit your garden.
Additional guidance: Maine Forest Service fall tree-planting advice and University of Maine Cooperative Extension's guide to trees and shrubs.