Denny's Soapbox

Seeking Professional Help with Fall Landscaping

We are quickly approaching the best time of year to plant new trees, shrubs and perennials. There are several reasons why fall is the best time to plant. All plants, new or established, transfer their energy from making new growth to making new roots in the fall. Because of this process, plants installed now will get established very quickly in their new home. Since the roots have all winter to grow, once spring arrives the plant will take off with lots of new growth. Plants installed in the spring will basically not grow until the spring of the next year because the plant will not have the majority of their new roots until the fall. If you plant in the fall, the maintenance is also greatly reduced compared to spring plantings. Another big advantage to fall planting is that you’ll be able to purchase larger trees and shrubs at the same price than those smaller ones that you’ll get in the spring.

Now that I’ve told you why you should plant in the fall from the plant’s perspective, let me give you another plus. The line of homeowners waiting for help from professional landscape designers is a lot shorter now than it is in the spring. Landscape designers have a lot more time in the fall to help with your project, regardless if you need professional installation or if you’re a do-it-yourselfer.

Selecting a Pro

The best way to select a landscape designer is to first look around your neighborhood or elsewhere to find a designed landscape that you really like. Then ask the homeowner who it was that designed/installed the project. Take notes about the type of plants installed and take digital pictures for future reference. You can also ask friends or relatives for referrals. You will then need to contact the designer’s office so they can explain the process and then you can set up an appointment. At your appointment you need to ask yourself the following questions:

• Did the consultant show up on time (dependability)?

• Did the designer listen to my needs and discuss horticulturally correct solutions?

• Did they ask you questions about your maintenance habits and plant choices?

• Did they discuss scheduling time frames?

• Do you like them and their ideas; did they appear trustworthy and knowledgeable?

I would caution you to focus on a designer/company qualifications and reputation more than the price tag. The best companies will never be the cheapest but you’ll find in the long run you may be paying less because good company’s focus on doing it right the first time and standing behind their projects for the long haul.

You’re a D.I.Y.

More and more homeowners are getting involved with installing and maintaining their own landscape projects. A lot of people know which plants they like but need to be educated about the growth habits and the plants characteristics. If you are one who likes to dig your own holes, I encourage you to seek help from a year round garden center or nursery store.

• First, take pictures and measurements of the landscape area you wish to improve.

• Select a nursery that has a large selection of trees and shrubs on hand for you to choose from.

• A certified nursery technician can take your pictures, measurements and show you various plant options.

• They can explain and educate you on the growing needs and maintenance of each plant selection.

• They can then draw a free hand sketch design showing the placement of your new plants.

Whether you need professional help with installation or help with a do-it-yourself project, you need to act quickly in order to take advantage of all the fall planting benefits.