Fall is the perfect time to redo your yard and add low-water-use plants great for our climate. The soil still holds summer's warmth, which encourages root growth, but new plants don’t require much water because the days are getting cooler instead of heating up.
So when spring rolls around, your fall plantings will have established root systems and be ready to start their growth spurt and be better prepared for the heat of summer.
Some things to consider:
- Choose the right plant for the right place: Take into account how tall the plant or tree will grow to save you time in the future when it comes to pruning. Also make sure to group your plants according to their water and sunlight needs. Need a plant list? Check ours out!
- Aerate the soil to let in more good stuff: Aerating or breaking up the soil in your yard will ensure that oxygen, water and nutrients are able to get to a plant’s roots. It’s most effective when done in fall when temperatures have dropped. You can rent a machine, use a pitchfork or even wear sandals equipped with long spikes.
- Add plenty of compost and mulch: Compost will enrich the soil with valuable nutrients, make clay and compacted soil more airy, and can help balance the soil’s pH level. Then make sure to add a couple inches of mulch around your new plants. It’s best to add the compost after you’ve aerated your lawn or plants to make sure it can be more easily absorbed.
If you’re looking for plant ideas perfect for our region, check out our plant list and other water saving tips at www.roseville.ca.us/savewater.