The spring tradition of gardening is linked to a time when it was more common for people to plant annuals in their flowerbeds and vegetable gardens.
Perennials benefit greatly from being planted in the fall and even though today they are now commonplace in most gardens, the tradition of spring planting forges on.
Soil is warmer in the fall than in the spring, and this, coupled with increased rain (as opposed to summer droughts) and lack of evaporation, allows roots to grow stronger and faster, for a longer period of time. Perennials planted during the spring have little opportunity to develop strong roots before warm air temperatures encourage their leaves and flowers to grow, placing greater energy demands on the plants, allowing less opportunity for roots to develop.
Perennials planted in the fall typically reach their full size during their first summer as opposed to perennials planted in the spring, which usually take two or three summers to fully grow.
The fall also has less pests to disturb plants. You can protect them during the colder months by covering them up from the elements.
Another perk about gardening in the fall? Many plants at the nursery are on sale by then, so it’s the perfect time to stock up on the typically pricier perennials, all the while preparing for a beefier garden by next spring.
