As summer fades into fall, many gardeners in Bucks County, PA, may assume that the gardening season is coming to a close. However, fall is actually one of the best times to plant certain types of flowers, shrubs, and even vegetables that can thrive throughout the colder months and set the stage for a beautiful spring garden. At Bountiful Acres, we’re all about helping you extend your growing season and make the most of the cooler weather. Here’s a guide on what to plant and how to prepare your garden this fall.
Why Plant in Fall?
There are several reasons fall is an excellent time to plant in Bucks County. The cooler temperatures reduce stress on new plants, while the soil is still warm enough to encourage root growth before winter sets in. Additionally, fall planting allows perennials, shrubs, and bulbs to establish themselves, leading to more vigorous growth come spring.
Fall Flowers for a Splash of Color
While many plants are winding down for the season, there are still plenty of options to add color and texture to your fall garden. Consider planting the following fall flowers:
- Chrysanthemums (Mums): Mums are a fall favorite in Bucks County. Available in vibrant colors like red, yellow, and orange, they add a cheerful touch to your garden even as the leaves begin to fall. Make sure to plant them in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight.
- Pansies: These cool-weather flowers are perfect for fall planting. Pansies are available in a range of colors, including purples, blues, and yellows. They thrive in cooler temperatures and can last well into winter with the right care.
- Asters: Another Bucks County fall staple, asters bloom in late summer through fall. Their daisy-like flowers, typically in shades of blue, purple, and pink, attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which is great for your garden’s ecosystem.
Shrubs and Trees for Long-Term Growth
Fall is also an ideal time to plant shrubs and trees. The cooler temperatures allow them to focus on establishing strong root systems before the winter frost. Some top choices for Bucks County include:
- Red Maple (Acer rubrum): Known for its striking red foliage in the fall, this native plant is a popular choice for Bucks County landscapes. It’s a hardy tree that can withstand the local climate and grow into a beautiful, large shade tree.
- Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia): This native shrub not only offers showy white flowers in the summer but also boasts beautiful fall foliage in shades of red, orange, and purple. It’s a low-maintenance shrub that thrives in partial shade and well-drained soil.
- Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata): Known for its bright red berries that appear in the fall and persist into winter, winterberry holly adds year-round interest to your garden, and is native to the area. Plant both male and female plants to ensure berry production.
Bulbs for a Stunning Spring Display
Planting bulbs in the fall will give you a gorgeous spring display. In Bucks County, the following bulbs perform particularly well when planted in the cooler months:
- Tulips: Known for their variety of colors and shapes, tulips are a spring garden favorite. Plant them in well-draining soil in a sunny spot for best results.
- Daffodils: These bright yellow flowers are one of the first signs of spring. They’re also deer-resistant, making them ideal for Bucks County gardens.
- Crocuses: These early bloomers are often the first flowers to emerge in late winter or early spring. Plant crocus bulbs in well-drained soil in sunny or partially shaded areas.
Vegetables to Plant in Fall
Bucks County gardeners can also take advantage of the cooler weather to plant a variety of vegetables. Fall planting extends the harvest season and provides fresh produce well into the cooler months. Some great options include:
- Garlic: Garlic is easy to grow in Bucks County. Plant individual cloves in well-drained soil and mulch them for the winter. They’ll be ready to harvest in the early summer.
- Kale: Kale thrives in cool weather and can even tolerate frost. Plant it in full sun to partial shade, and you’ll have fresh greens throughout the fall and early winter.
- Spinach: Another cold-hardy vegetable, spinach grows best in cooler temperatures. Plant spinach seeds in well-drained soil, and you’ll enjoy a fall harvest that can continue into early winter.
Preparing Your Garden for Winter
Once you’ve planted your fall flowers, shrubs, and vegetables, it’s important to prepare your garden for winter. Here are a few steps to ensure your plants survive the colder months:
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch to help insulate your plants’ roots and retain moisture in the soil.
- Water: Keep your garden well-watered until the ground freezes. Even though the air is cooler, your plants still need moisture to thrive.
- Cut Back Perennials: Once the first frost hits, trim back your perennials and remove any dead or diseased plant material to prevent overwintering pests.
At Bountiful Acres, we’re ready to help you make the most of the fall planting season. From vibrant fall flowers and shrubs to spring bulbs and vegetables, we have everything you need to create a thriving garden. Visit us today, and let our experts guide you in selecting the perfect plants for your Bucks County garden.
Happy planting!
