The crisp autumn air might tempt you to plant everything in sight, but timing is crucial for gardening success.
While fall is perfect for many plants, some varieties simply won’t thrive when planted during this season.
Let’s explore which plants you should save for spring planting and why timing matters so much in gardening.
1. Canna Lily
These stunning tropical beauties demand warm soil and plenty of time to establish their roots. Planting cannas in fall is a recipe for disappointment, as their tender rhizomes can’t handle cold soil temperatures. Save these exotic showstoppers for spring planting when they’ll have months of warm weather to develop strong root systems. For best results, store any canna bulbs indoors during winter months.
2. Hibiscus
Whether you’re drawn to hardy or tropical varieties, hibiscus plants need warmth to establish themselves properly. Fall planting puts these stunning bloomers at risk of frost damage before they can develop strong roots. Their sensitive root system requires soil temperatures above 60°F (15.5°C) to thrive. Wait until spring when these show-stopping flowers will have the best chance at becoming garden stars.
3. Tuberose
The intoxicating fragrance of tuberose makes it a garden favorite, but timing is everything with these delicate flowers. These warm-weather lovers need extended periods of high soil temperatures to establish healthy root systems. Autumn’s cooling soil temperatures can cause tuberose bulbs to rot before they ever have a chance to grow. Save these sweetly scented treasures for your spring planting schedule.
4. Coneflower (Echinacea)
Despite being tough prairie natives, coneflowers prefer spring planting in regions with harsh winters. These perennial favorites need time to establish strong roots before freezing temperatures arrive. While mature plants are cold-hardy, newly planted echinacea can struggle to survive their first winter when planted in fall. Give these pollinator-friendly flowers a head start by planting them in spring.
5. Gladiolus
These classic cutting garden favorites need the right timing to produce their magnificent flower spikes. Fall planting exposes gladiolus corms to potentially fatal winter moisture and freezing temperatures. These summer-blooming bulbs perform best when planted in spring after all danger of frost has passed. Store your gladiolus corms in a cool, dry place until the soil warms up.
6. Dahlias
The show-stopping blooms of dahlias require careful timing for success. These tender tubers are extremely frost-sensitive and won’t survive winter if planted in fall. Spring planting gives these flowering superstars the warm soil temperatures they need to thrive. Focus on lifting and storing existing dahlia tubers in fall rather than planting new ones.
7. Basil
This kitchen garden staple is particularly fussy about temperature. Basil plants shut down growth when temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C). Fall planting almost guarantees stunted growth and poor performance. Instead of fighting nature, plan to plant your basil when spring temperatures consistently stay above 60°F (15.5°C).
8. Tibouchina urvilleana (Purple Princess Flower)
The striking purple blooms of Tibouchina make it tempting to plant year-round. However, these tropical shrubs are extremely frost-sensitive and need warm soil to establish healthy roots. Fall planting in most climates will lead to plant stress or death when temperatures drop. Reserve these purple beauties for spring planting when they can soak up months of warmth.
9. Citrus Trees
While citrus trees can produce fruit in winter, planting them in fall is risky business. These Mediterranean natives need several months of warm weather to establish strong root systems before facing their first winter. Young citrus trees are particularly vulnerable to cold damage. Wait for spring to give your new citrus the best chance at thriving in your garden.
10. Loropetalum chinense (Fringe Flower)
The delicate fringe-like flowers of Loropetalum belie their specific growing needs. These Asian beauties require established root systems to handle cold temperatures. Fall planting doesn’t give them enough time to develop cold hardiness. Spring planting allows these ornamental shrubs to focus their energy on root growth during the warm season.
11. Tree Fern (Dicksonia Antarctica)
Despite their prehistoric appearance, tree ferns are surprisingly delicate about their planting time. These majestic plants need consistently warm soil temperatures to establish new roots. Fall planting exposes them to winter damage before they can properly establish. Save these architectural beauties for spring when they can safely unfurl their magnificent fronds.
12. Mallow (Lavatera)
The fast-growing nature of mallow makes it particularly unsuitable for fall planting. These cottage garden favorites need to focus on root growth rather than their typical rapid top growth when first planted. Fall’s shortening days and cooling temperatures create poor conditions for establishment. Give these flowering machines the advantage of a spring start.
Smart Alternatives for Fall Planting
Don’t let these restrictions discourage you from fall gardening! Many plants actually prefer autumn planting. Consider these alternatives:
- Hardy Trees and Shrubs: Grevillea, Red-Twig Dogwood, and Japanese Maple establish beautifully in fall.
- Strong Perennials: Ornamental grasses like Miscanthus and Stipa perform exceptionally well when planted in autumn.
- Edible Garden Options: Try planting bare-root fruit trees or berry bushes for a productive spring garden.
Remember, successful gardening isn’t just about what you plant – it’s about when you plant it. By avoiding these 12 plants in fall, you’ll save yourself disappointment and create a more resilient garden. Focus your autumn energy on plants that truly benefit from fall planting, and save these tender beauties for spring when they’ll have the best chance to thrive.