Plant Tissue Culture PPT

Soil Temperatures are Warmer

In the Middle Atlantic States, soil temperatures are warmer on November 15th than they are on April 15th. This explains why trees, bulbs, and some perennials can establish healthy root systems even though the ambient air temperature may not feel like "the growing season."

The Soil Usually Isn't as Muddy

April showers result in muddier soils that stay muddy longer. Late summer and early fall rains usually don't result in muddy soil that lasts more that a few days. So, soil is easier to till in the fall... and, of course, your tiller is all warmed up if you used it for various spring and summer garden and lawn chores.

Planting Bulbs in the Fall

Spring-flowering bulbs, like Tulips, Daffodils, and Hyacinths must be planted in the fall. While some have had success with tulips and daffodils planted as late as Thanksgiving weekend, in certain areas of the county, it's recommended that you plant them earlier... at least 6 weeks before the ground is likely to start freezing.

You can plant bulbs in wide rows along walkways, in mass plantings around the foundation of your home, or in their own garden space in the middle of your lawn. Spring flowering bulbs can provide a dazzling display of color after a gray winter.

Fruit, Nut, and Ornamental Trees

Fall is an ideal time to plant fruit, nut, and ornamental trees. The warm soil temperature will enable them to establish a good root system prior to winter dormancy. As previously mentioned, the soil is usually easier to work in the fall. Planting fruit trees in the fall... vs. planting the next spring... will give you a head start on fruit production. You can purchase a wonderful variety of high quality bare-root fruit trees from the USA's leading gardening catalogs. Use a tiller to quickly create the right size planting hole for your new tree. For bare-root fruit trees a hole 2 feet in diameter and 18 to 24" deep will usually be sufficient.

Dividing Daylilies

Fall is also an ideal time to divide daylilies. If you have large daylilies that are several years old, chances are good that you can increase flower production by dividing them and creating additional plantings. If the center of your daylilies has "thin" foliage and produces few flower stalks, it's time to divide them.

The best time to divide them is late summer, shortly after they have stopped blooming. Trim all foliage to 4 to 6" in height. Lift the entire root ball with a planting fork. Divide the root ball into smaller clumps with a planting fork or sharp knife. Dig wide, shallow holes for replanting the divided root ball sections. If planting smaller individual clumps, the roots can be carefully spread over shallow mounds. If you have more clumps than you want to plant in your own gardens, share some with friends.

Enjoy this Fall... Plant something!

For more information on Tillers, click here.

Click here for an article on Planting a Bulb Garden.

Writer for Mantis and Mantis Owners.

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