07 Sep Five Top Reasons to Plant in the Fall
We’ve been beautifying Hamptons landscapes for over 40 years. I suppose that means we’ve seen 160 seasons come and go, and although they all have their qualities, Autumn comes up as one of my favorites. I’m Gordon Andrews, Founder and owner of Fertilawn and hamptontick.com. One of the reasons is that this month, as the weather cools, we start designing and installing gardens and perennial landscapes, as well as planting and renovating turf. We like designing, installing, and renovating. Eastern Long Island offers ideal Fall conditions for establishing strong, healthy landscapes. Our soil is still warm, while air temperatures are cooler, which inhibits weed growth. Additionally, there is more frequent rainfall and fewer pests, which really helps. Please feel free to contact us if you have questions about plant material or other fall planting questions and needs.
1. Strong Roots Start Now
Give your plant material a head start. The soil in early Fall is still warm from the summer, giving us a short window to get things going. Meanwhile, cooler air temperatures reduce weeds and increase plant productivity, helping them establish a strong root base before they go dormant. Planting now provides vegetation a head start for vibrant spring growth.
2. Cooler Weather Welcomed by Both Garden and Gardener
Temperatures in July and August average in the low 80s on Eastern Long Island. Compare that to September and October, when the average temperatures are in the low 70s and lower. As I mentioned, although the air is cooler, the soil retains warmth, which aids root growth, while cool air supports above-ground growth—perfect weather for the gardener and ideal conditions for the plants.
3. Irrigate with Less Effort
There are two reasons why frequent watering is unnecessary. Fall typically brings steadier rainfall and cooler soil. Both contribute to requiring less frequent watering. This, along with the many other benefits, of fall planting, makes this time of year hard to beat.
4. Weeds and Pests are Moving Out
Many warm-season weeds and pests begin to die in the fall. That means less competition for your new plants and fewer garden nuisances to deal with while you’re planting. Ask us about our recommendations to enhance your landscape with low-maintenance shrubs.
5. Strong Spring Performance
Good prep now will yield terrific results in the spring. Whether you’re looking for ornamentals, perennials, or edible crops, Fertilawn will take care of everything. Planting in the fall often leads to early and more robust spring blooms—and in the case of vegetables, Fall-sown veggies tend to be sweeter and have superior flavor thanks to the cool temps.
Call Me
I’m Gordon Andrews, Founder and Owner of Fertilawn. Call me at 631-728-5815 and I’ll show you how Fertilawn and our pest division, hamptontick.com, can prepare and beautify your home now for spring 2026.
#hamptonperennials
#hamptongardens
#hamptonholidaydecorating
#fallplantingspecials
#eastendgardening
#autumnbeautify