September 2024
Nature’s Perfect Planting Pocket
September is the month that really bridges the seasons.
There are many late summer blooms on display, which will continue until the first frosts. Salvias, dahlias, phlox, helenium, rudbeckia, persicaria and many others are often the stars of the show at this time of year.
Hydrangea paniculata are displaying their range of pink tones, grasses & developing seedheads add ephemeral interest, and foliage is in full colour shift swing!
Now is THE perfect time to plant many things including shrubs, trees, hedging & spring bulbs (hold off until November for tulips) and here’s why:
Great root development
Most things planted now will relish the warm, moist ground to settle in before conditions get frozen. Soil is more workable, allowing for better planting. Early root growth will help establish stronger healthier plants that are well prepared for the next growing season.
Nature’s watering can
This season (should) bring more consistent rainfall and cooler temperatures, ensuring that the soil stays hydrated, so less manual watering for you. Although always keep an eye on new planting in it’s first year.
Less competition
Compared to spring, there will usually be less competition from surrounding weeds. This allows your plants or sown seeds increased access to nutrients and water.
Earlier flowering
Many plants and seeds introduced in the autumn will get going as soon as the weather warms up if they have already ‘settled in’ to their new home.
A cold spell
Some seeds require a cold spell (or cold stratification to get technical), to kick start them. This will lead to better germination rates.
Less stressful
Autumn planting can be less stressful for plants. Spring conditions are usually more variable with potential heat and drought into early summer.