When is the latest time to plant seedlings in the fall?

In the fall, young trees and shrubs are planted before soil temperatures drop to 4°C. The timing of this cold snap depends on the regional climate and weather. Gardeners try to plant most seedlings in the fall. However, some plant species are unable to withstand winter frosts during the early growing season. They should only be planted in the spring. Traditionally, mid-September is considered the best time to begin planting, and mid-November is the best time to finish.

Autumn planting

Moist soil and mild autumn sunshine promote rapid seedling adaptation. These comfortable conditions allow the root system to develop new shoots and gain a foothold in the soil. This allows the plant to better withstand winter cold. There are also some downsides to autumn planting that can be avoided.

Advantages and disadvantages

To protect newly planted plants, they need to be carefully wrapped for the winter and provided with protection from pests.

Deadlines

It's difficult to determine exact dates, but for a rough idea, keep in mind that they will vary in different regions:

• for the temperate climate zone of Russia - from 15.09 to 15.10;
• for northern regions - from September 1 to October 5;
• for the south of the country - 10.10 – 15.11.

According to popular belief and predictions, the best time is after the leaves have fallen. This is confirmed by observations by biologists and agronomists. This is when trees begin their dormant period, entering winter "hibernation."

What to plant in autumn

One- and two-year-old seedlings are purchased from specialized nurseries, where they are grown by trained professionals. Their advice will help gardeners choose plants suitable for fall planting, meaning those with a high degree of frost resistance.

Two to three weeks after planting, all newly planted crops should be insulated. Cover the root area around the trunk with a layer of compost or peat. Cover the trunks and branches with burlap and tie with twine.

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In the southern regions, almost all plants are propagated in the fall. Winters here are warm, and the soil doesn't freeze. In the Urals, Siberia, and even the Moscow region, it's best not to rush into planting heat-loving plants. They should be planted only in the spring to prevent them from freezing in severe frosts.

To avoid wasting money, experienced gardeners buy all types of seedlings in the fall. Frost-resistant plants are planted until October or November, while heat-loving ones are stored until spring.

Storage methods

1. Storage in basements. It's easier to maintain temperature and humidity here. The roots are placed in a moist substrate. The top portion is covered with burlap. Optimal storage conditions are temperatures from 0° to +10°C and humidity of 85-90%.
2. In holes covered with soil. In a draft-free garden, dig a hole the depth of a spade blade. Place the plant at an angle, as close to the ground as possible, spread the roots and position them in the hole. Cover the seedling with dry soil to a depth of 20-30 cm. Cover the top with plastic wrap or a piece of roofing felt.
3. Snow removal. The same steps are followed. When snow falls, it is raked over the area where the plants are buried.

The condition of young plants is checked periodically. Immediate measures are taken if shelters are damaged by rodents. During significant cold snaps, additional covering materials are used: reed mats, straw, and sawdust.

From September to November, the garden and vegetable plots finish harvesting. The area is cleared, making way for planting and propagating new trees and shrubs. Young trees must not only be planted correctly but also preserved through the harshest frosts.