Fall brings to mind pumpkin spice, changing leaves, and cooler temperatures. But did you know that fall is also the perfect time to plant trees and shrubs in your yard? Planting in the fall gives new trees and shrubs time to establish their root systems before winter sets in. This means that come spring, they’ll be ready to put on new growth and thrive in your yard. If you’re not sure which trees and shrubs to plant, don’t worry – we’re here to help you choose the right ones for your yard!

First, consider your yard’s features. If you have a sunny yard, you’ll want to look for trees and shrubs that thrive in full sun, such as flowering dogwood, magnolia, or crepe myrtle. On the other hand, if your yard is shady, you’ll want to choose shade-loving trees and shrubs like the Japanese maple, holly, or camellia. If you have a mix of sun and shade, consider a flowering tree like a cherry or crabapple, which can thrive in both full sun and partial shade. Also consider the area the plants will live in - Is it a low spot that stays wet, often collecting water or a dry spot in the yard?

Next, think about your yard’s size. If you have a small yard, look for compact and slow-growing trees and shrubs like the dwarf lilac, pussy willow, or dwarf Alberta spruce. For larger yards, you’ll have more options, such as the red oak, maple, or birch. Just make sure to leave plenty of space for the tree or shrub to grow to its full size!

Consider the tree or shrub’s purpose. Are you looking for a tree or shrub with beautiful flowers, interesting foliage, or something that will provide shade? For beautiful flowers, you might consider the cherry, dogwood, or magnolia. For interesting foliage, look for the Japanese maple or the variegated weigela. If you’re hoping for shade, consider the oak, maple, or the birch.

Finally, think about the maintenance required for each tree or shrub. Some trees and shrubs are very low maintenance, while others require regular pruning, fertilization, or watering. If you’re short on time or prefer low-maintenance plants, look for options like the witch hazel, spicebush, or sumac. If you enjoy caring for your plants and have the time to do so, consider trees and shrubs like the juniper, spruce, or yew.

Fall is the perfect time to add new trees and shrubs to your yard. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to figure out which ones are best for your specific yard. But by considering your yard’s features, size, purpose, and maintenance requirements, you’ll be able to choose the perfect trees and shrubs for your yard. Take some time to research and visit local nurseries or garden centers to see the options in person. And don’t forget that a healthy, well-maintained lawn is the perfect complement to your new trees and shrubs, so make sure to fertilize and care for your lawn as well!