Fall marks the perfect time to start planting wildflowers

AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Don't put away the gardening tools just yet. As fall sets in, the season offers a prime opportunity for planting various species to ensure a vibrant garden come spring.

Dr. Michael Arnold, Professor and Director of the Garden at Texas A&M University, emphasizes that fall is an ideal time for planting as the cooler weather provides optimal conditions for establishing plants before the next growing season.

"Fall is a fantastic time for planting," Arnold said. "Obvious things that come to mind are wildflowers that we might want to use. It's also the appropriate time to plant many of our spring flowering bulbs."

Arnold advised gardeners to consider what they want their garden to look like in the spring and to plant accordingly. This includes planting trees and shrubs.

Wildflowers, typically native species, are well adapted to local conditions and can survive winter when properly established. Arnold notes that keeping the soil moist until the plants are growing well is crucial for their survival.

For trees, shrubs and cool-season annuals, Arnold suggests providing protection during severe winter events. Watering plants before a freeze can help buffer temperature changes and prevent drying out due to winter winds.

With careful planning and preparation, fall gardening can lead to a successful bloom in spring, ensuring that gardens remain vibrant and healthy despite the colder months.

All facts from this article were gathered by KXAN journalists. This article was converted into this format with assistance from artificial intelligence. It has been edited and approved by KXAN staff. Read about our approach to using AI tools.