Seasonally speaking, this is a great time of year to plant trees and shrubs because it provides roots ample time to get established before Spring and the new growth that comes with it. When a plant goes dormant during the winter months, energy transfer occurs at the root level – the better and more extensive the root system, the healthier the plant will be during the growing season. Most know that plant roots gather nutrients and the bulk of water intake. By planting in Fall or early Winter, as opposed to Spring, the plant will be less stressed in its growing season because of the head start the root system gets during the winter months.

Here in the Rogue Valley, we experience a significant dry season with several months with little or no precipitation. The biggest advantage of planting in the fall to early winter is the timing with our rainy season – once the rain begins, the need to water your new trees or shrubs is taken care of by Mother Nature. In the event of an abnormally dry winter, I recommend keeping a hose handy and hand-watering.

The importance of the first two or three growing seasons for any plant is vital. A plant’s first dormant season is important for the roots to grow strong. Amending the soil when planting new trees or shrubs is a great idea and provides the best environment for the roots to flourish. Adding organic soil amendment to the native dirt is helpful for maximum root growth. Remember to mulch the top layer of new planting with 2 to 3 inches of mulch, keeping the mulch away from the trunk.

Bulbs are another great thing to plant in the fall to early winter, too.

Finally, for turf areas, now is the time to apply a winter fertilizer and to aerate your lawns to remove thatch for a thick, lush green lawn next Spring!

Adam Haynes is the owner of Artisan Landscapes, Inc. He can be reached at 541.292.3285 or adam@artisanlandscapesinc.com. See also, www.artisanlandscapesinc.com