When the days get shorter and the evenings turn crisp, many gardeners assume the planting season is over. But here’s the secret: fall is actually one of the very best times to get new plants in the ground.
Why Fall Planting Works
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Cool Air, Warm Soil
Unlike spring, where plants battle fluctuating weather, fall provides the perfect mix: cool air that reduces plant stress and soil that still holds summer’s warmth. Warm soil means roots can stretch out and establish themselves without competing with top growth. -
Plentiful Rain
Autumn showers help keep soil consistently moist, giving new plants exactly what they need to settle in. That means less watering for you and a stronger start for your perennials, shrubs, or trees. -
Less Stress, More Success
Without the harsh summer heat, plants can focus on building strong root systems instead of pushing out new leaves or flowers. Come spring, they’ll already be ahead of the game—ready to leaf out, bloom, and thrive.
What You Can Plant in FallÂ
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Perennials like hostas, echinacea, and daylilies
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Shrubs such as hydrangea, ninebark, and viburnum
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Trees that benefit from strong fall root growth
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Spring-blooming bulbs like tulips, daffodils, and alliums
(Tip: avoid tender perennials that can’t handle a deep freeze, but most hardy garden favourites love a fall start.)
Timing in Ontario Zone 5Â
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September – October: Best window for trees, shrubs, and perennials.
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October – early November: Great for spring bulbs and late-season perennials, as long as the ground isn’t frozen.
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By late November: Wrap up planting before snow cover sets in.
Extra Peace of Mind 🌼
Worried your plants might not settle in before winter? We’ve got you covered. All our garden centre plants come with a one-year warranty. That means you can plant with confidence this fall—knowing your investment is protected.
Final ThoughtÂ
Far from being the end of the gardening season, fall is a fresh opportunity. By planting now, you give your garden a head start for spring, create stronger, healthier plants, and enjoy the satisfaction of gardening just a little bit longer.
So don’t pack away your tools just yet; this season is made for planting.
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