As summer fades and cooler weather approaches, September is an ideal time to prepare your garden for the future. The transition from warm days to the cooler, shorter days of autumn offers a great opportunity to plant for both the immediate and upcoming seasons.
Why September is Ideal for Planting
With the arrival of cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, late September provides the perfect conditions for planting various trees, shrubs, and flowers. According to Homes & Gardens, this time of year is crucial for enhancing both ornamental and productive areas of your garden. Whether you’re adding structural elements like trees and shrubs or boosting your flower beds for spring and summer, there are plenty of planting options to consider.
Benefits of Fall Planting
Planting in the fall often results in stronger, more resilient plants. “Sowing seeds in the fall gives you a head start, leading to plants that flower earlier in the spring,” says plant expert Sarah Raven. Plants started in the fall can bloom up to six weeks earlier than those planted in the spring. Some varieties even show remarkable improvement when sown in the fall.
Spring Bulbs and Hardy Winter Flowers
September is also a great time to plant spring bulbs while the soil remains warm. Hardy winter flowers, including perennial varieties, can also be planted now. Ammi majus, or bishop’s flower, is a standout choice for a cut flower garden. Known for its delicate, lacy white flowers, it adds a striking touch to any arrangement.
Reliable Flower Choices
Scabious, or pincushion flower, is another reliable option. Scabious ‘Black Cat’ features dark crimson blooms on long, wiry stems and is highly attractive to insects, making it a valuable addition for pollinators.
Euphorbia oblongata is a short-lived perennial that blooms best in its first year. “Treat it as a hardy annual,” suggests Raven. Sow it under cover this month, then plant the seedlings in mild gardens or overwinter them in a cold frame or unheated greenhouse for spring planting. Be cautious when handling euphorbia, as its milky sap can irritate the skin.
Colorful Additions for Your Garden
Calendula, or English marigolds, offer vibrant color to beds and borders and can even be used in salads. Unlike the tagetes family marigolds, calendulas are highly attractive to bees and butterflies. They also work well in companion planting, helping to repel pests with their strong scent. “Calendulas are hard-working plants that look great,” says Amy Enfield of Bonnies Plants.
Daffodils and Narcissi are classic choices for spring blooms. These flowers fill gardens with their cheerful yellow or white heads. Plant daffodil bulbs in fall for the best results. Ensure they have good drainage in pots by placing broken crockery or stones in the bottom before filling with compost. Water thoroughly and keep the pots in a cool spot until the leaves appear. Daffodils are also suitable for container gardening.
Winter Pansies for Seasonal Color
Winter pansies can brighten up your garden through the colder months. Available in a wide range of colors, they are easy to grow and require minimal care. “Planting pansies in September allows their roots to establish, ensuring they survive winter and bloom again in spring,” explains Simon Crawford from Burpee Europe.
By planting these varieties in September, you’ll set your garden up for a vibrant spring and ensure that your outdoor space remains attractive throughout the colder months.