Greg Grant

Fall is undoubtedly my favorite time of year, and it is the ideal season to enhance your landscape. If there is an area that needs an upgrade or replacement, now is the best time to plant trees, shrubs, and woody vines. Winter follows as the second-best season for planting, with spring after that. Summer, however, is the most challenging time to establish new plants in our Texas heat and droughts. Besides woody plants, autumn is also the prime time for planting cool-season annuals and spring-blooming bulbs and perennials.

In Texas, plant roots grow anytime the soil temperature is above 40 degrees, which often extends throughout winter. By planting in fall, you give your plants a head start as their roots grow and establish through the cooler months. Come spring, these plants are better equipped to handle their first hot, dry summer with far less stress and watering needs.

Before choosing plants, consider their requirements. Does the plant suit your soil type? Will it thrive in the sun or shade? Does it prefer wet or dry conditions? Is it hardy enough for winter and adapted to our heat? Fortunately, many nurseries provide these details. For more guidance, check out the Earth-Kind section on the Aggie Horticulture website, particularly the “Plant Selections” publication.

Whether you are adding a single specimen or transforming an entire landscape, planning is essential. A well-thought-out plan ensures you make the most of your landscape, adding beauty and value to your home. Consider the purpose of each plant—whether for screening, shade, or as a focal point—and how large it will grow. A one-gallon plant today could become a substantial presence over the years. Here are a few guidelines for planting trees and most shrubs:

Dig the Hole Properly: Ensure the hole is wide enough to give the root system about six inches of space on all sides. Keep the depth no greater than the root ball to provide a stable foundation.

Positioning: Set the plant slightly above soil level to allow for settling and drainage. However, do not leave any of the root ball exposed but do not cover any of the trunk with soil.

Handle with Care: Always handle the plant by the root ball, not the trunk, and remove any container before planting.

Backfill with Native Soil: Use only the soil removed from the hole when filling it back in. Avoid adding soil amendments for trees. Firm the soil around the roots and water thoroughly to settle the soil and remove air pockets.

Hold Off on Fertilizer: Wait until early spring for any fertilization, and then apply it lightly. Over-fertilizing too soon can damage the root system.

Water Wisely: Soak the plant in its container before transplanting, and water deeply every 7-10 days if it does not rain. Overwatering can lead to root rot, a common cause of plant failure.

Mulch Generously: Apply 4-6 inches of coarse organic mulch around the base of the plant to prevent weeds, maintain soil warmth during winter, and conserve moisture in summer. Pine needles or shredded bark are excellent mulch choices.

By following these guidelines, your fall-planted landscape will establish well, ready to hopefully thrive through the coming seasons.