Fall Planting.. to do? or not to do?

Pick back up your shovel.. the growing season is not over yet!

Crisp cool evenings, bright orange pumpkins, colorful mums… and fall planting. All things that go together like apples and cinnamon. Sunshine Garden Center wants to get the message out.. Don’t miss your fall nursery and perennial plantings!

Diamond, IL in Zone 5 has a growing season until the first frost date in October. Many folks think that landscape plantings are only done in the spring, but we are coming up on one of the best times to plant perennials, bushes, shrubs, and trees. Below are some great reasons that you should consider planting within the next few weeks. 

1. Root growth
• Planting 4-6 weeks before the first frost date is the sweet spot for many plants to establish their roots before going dormant in winter.
2. Requires less watering
• Rainfall increases in the fall. The combination of mild temperatures, warm soil, and frequent waterings will have your plant growing faster than our collection of fall candles.
3. Low maintenance next summer
• Fall-planted plants have stronger and more resilient root systems compared to one planted next spring. This makes them better equipped to handle the heat & dry conditions next year. 
4. Four Seasons design
• Shopping for nursery stock or perennial plants in August/ September can help you create a four-season landscape. Leaves are changing colors, bright berries are appearing, and some late flowers even have yet to bloom. Paying attention to these factors when shopping around can help you make the most of your space.
5. End of summer sales
• Due to the blistering sun and unforgiving heat, August tends to bring out the “ugly duckling” phase of potted plants in sales yards. The good news is, these plants get over their summer trauma pretty quickly. Next year, these plants will come back like, “new year, new me.” At Sunshine Garden Center, we are currently offering 30% off of all Nursery Stock and Perennials. 

If you have questions about our stock and availability, give us a call at (815) 458-6100. If you need further information or inspiration, stop by the store and ask for Sarah or Courtney.