What flowers to plant in fall, and why do squirrels always seem to know the best spots?

blog 2025-01-10 0Browse 0

Fall is a magical time for gardeners. The crisp air, the changing leaves, and the promise of a fresh start make it the perfect season to plant flowers that will bloom in the coming months. But what flowers should you plant in the fall? And why do squirrels always seem to know the best spots to dig? Let’s dive into the world of fall gardening and explore the best flowers to plant, along with some quirky observations about our furry friends.

Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Plant

Fall is often overlooked as a planting season, but it’s actually one of the best times to get your hands dirty. The soil is still warm from the summer heat, which helps roots establish themselves before the cold winter sets in. Additionally, the cooler air reduces stress on plants, allowing them to focus on root growth rather than battling the scorching sun. Plus, fall planting gives your garden a head start for spring, ensuring a burst of color as soon as the snow melts.

The Best Flowers to Plant in Fall

Pansies: These cheerful flowers are a fall favorite. They thrive in cooler temperatures and can even withstand a light frost. Pansies come in a variety of colors, making them a versatile choice for any garden.
Mums (Chrysanthemums): Mums are synonymous with fall. Their vibrant blooms in shades of orange, yellow, and red are perfect for adding a pop of color to your garden. They’re also relatively low-maintenance, making them a great choice for beginner gardeners.
Asters: Asters are another fall staple. These daisy-like flowers bloom in late summer and continue through the fall, providing a late-season nectar source for pollinators. They come in a range of colors, including purple, pink, and white.
Sedum (Stonecrop): Sedum is a hardy succulent that thrives in the fall. Its thick, fleshy leaves store water, making it drought-tolerant and low-maintenance. Sedum’s star-shaped flowers attract butterflies and bees, adding life to your garden.
Goldenrod: Often mistaken for a weed, goldenrod is a beautiful fall flower that adds a splash of yellow to your garden. It’s also a favorite of pollinators, making it a great choice for eco-conscious gardeners.
Japanese Anemone: These elegant flowers bloom in late summer and continue into the fall. Their delicate petals and tall stems make them a standout in any garden. Japanese anemones prefer partial shade and well-drained soil.
Ornamental Kale and Cabbage: While not technically flowers, ornamental kale and cabbage are a great way to add texture and color to your fall garden. Their ruffled leaves come in shades of purple, pink, and white, and they can withstand frost, making them a durable choice for cooler weather.
Crocus: Crocuses are one of the first flowers to bloom in spring, but they need to be planted in the fall. These small, colorful flowers are a welcome sight after a long winter and are a favorite of early-season pollinators.
Tulips: Like crocuses, tulips need to be planted in the fall for a spring bloom. They come in a wide range of colors and varieties, making them a versatile choice for any garden. Tulips are also relatively easy to grow, making them a popular choice for both novice and experienced gardeners.
Daffodils: Daffodils are another spring-blooming flower that should be planted in the fall. Their bright yellow blooms are a sure sign that spring has arrived. Daffodils are also deer-resistant, making them a great choice for gardens in areas with high deer populations.

Tips for Planting Flowers in the Fall

Choose the Right Location: Make sure to plant your flowers in a location that receives adequate sunlight. Most fall flowers prefer full sun to partial shade, so choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Prepare the Soil: Before planting, make sure to prepare the soil by adding compost or organic matter. This will help improve soil structure and provide essential nutrients for your plants.
Water Regularly: While fall typically brings more rain, it’s still important to water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells. Make sure to water deeply to encourage root growth.
Mulch: Adding a layer of mulch around your plants can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Mulch also adds organic matter to the soil as it breaks down.
Protect from Frost: While many fall flowers can withstand a light frost, it’s a good idea to protect them during particularly cold nights. Covering your plants with a frost cloth or blanket can help prevent damage.

Why Do Squirrels Always Seem to Know the Best Spots?

If you’ve ever planted bulbs in the fall, you’ve probably noticed that squirrels seem to have a knack for finding them. These clever critters are always on the lookout for food, and freshly planted bulbs are like a gourmet meal to them. But why do they always seem to know the best spots to dig?

One theory is that squirrels are attracted to the smell of freshly turned soil. When you plant bulbs, you disturb the soil, releasing earthy scents that signal to squirrels that something tasty might be buried below. Additionally, squirrels have an excellent sense of smell and can detect the scent of bulbs from a distance.

Another theory is that squirrels are simply opportunistic. They’re always on the lookout for easy meals, and freshly planted bulbs are an easy target. Squirrels are also known to cache food for the winter, so they may be digging up your bulbs to store them for later.

So, what can you do to protect your bulbs from these furry thieves? One option is to plant your bulbs deeper than recommended. Squirrels are less likely to dig deep enough to reach them. You can also try covering your planting area with chicken wire or mesh to deter squirrels. Another option is to plant bulbs that squirrels find less appealing, such as daffodils or alliums.

Conclusion

Fall is a fantastic time to plant flowers that will bring color and life to your garden in the coming months. From pansies and mums to tulips and daffodils, there are plenty of options to choose from. Just remember to choose the right location, prepare the soil, and protect your plants from frost—and maybe keep an eye out for those pesky squirrels!

Q: Can I plant perennials in the fall? A: Yes, fall is a great time to plant perennials. The cooler temperatures and moist soil help them establish roots before winter, giving them a head start for spring growth.

Q: How do I protect my fall flowers from frost? A: You can protect your fall flowers from frost by covering them with a frost cloth or blanket on cold nights. Mulching around the base of the plants can also help regulate soil temperature.

Q: What should I do if squirrels keep digging up my bulbs? A: To deter squirrels, try planting your bulbs deeper than recommended, covering the planting area with chicken wire, or choosing bulbs that squirrels find less appealing, such as daffodils or alliums.

Q: Can I plant flowers in the fall if I live in a cold climate? A: Yes, you can still plant flowers in the fall if you live in a cold climate. Just make sure to choose cold-hardy varieties and protect them from frost. Planting in early fall gives the roots time to establish before the ground freezes.

Q: What are some low-maintenance fall flowers? A: Some low-maintenance fall flowers include mums, sedum, and ornamental kale. These plants are relatively easy to care for and can withstand cooler temperatures.