Fall Garden Planning for a Spectacular Spring

As the air turns crisp and the colors of autumn sweep across the landscape, it’s the perfect time for gardeners to start thinking ahead to next year. While many think of fall as the season to wrap things up, ambitious gardeners know it’s actually the best time to get a jump on a stunning spring garden. With some thoughtful planning and a few key tasks, you can set your garden up for a flourishing spring season at The Country Barn.

Divide Perennials for Healthier Growth

One of the best fall gardening practices is dividing perennials. This not only helps control their size but also rejuvenates the plants for healthier growth next year. Plants like daylilies, hostas, and irises benefit from division in fall when the weather is cooler, but the soil is still warm enough for roots to establish. By carefully lifting and splitting these plants, you’ll have more vigorous blooms in spring and can even use the extras to fill in bare spots or gift to friends.

Pro Tip: Be sure to water thoroughly after replanting, and mulch around the divided perennials to protect the roots during winter.

Plant Rare and Unique Bulbs

If you want your garden to truly stand out come spring, fall is the time to plant rare and unique bulbs that are harder to find. Think beyond tulips and daffodils and explore varieties like fritillaria, allium, and snowdrops. These lesser-known beauties can be show-stoppers when they bloom, adding a unique touch to your garden.

Planting bulbs in layers is another great way to ensure your garden bursts with color over an extended period. Try the “lasagna planting” technique, where you place larger bulbs deeper in the soil and smaller bulbs above them for a wave of blooms throughout spring.

Pro Tip: The Country Barn offers a selection of specialty bulbs, so stop by to find something unique for your garden!

Design and Plan for New Garden Layouts

Fall is the perfect time to evaluate your garden’s layout and plan for any changes you want to make. Take note of what worked well this year and what didn’t. Is there an area that didn’t get enough sun or too much shade? Were some plants overcrowded, or did they not thrive as expected? By thinking through these issues now, you can adjust your design and plan your spring plantings accordingly.

Consider sketching out a new layout, incorporating focal points, and even expanding your garden beds. Fall is also a great time to order seeds or make a list of new plants you want to introduce next season. By the time spring arrives, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running with a detailed plan in hand.

The Fall-to-Spring Connection

Gardening in fall is about more than just putting the garden to bed. It’s about laying the groundwork for a spectacular spring. By dividing perennials, planting rare bulbs, and reimagining your garden’s design, you’re setting the stage for a garden that will wow you — and anyone who passes by — next year.

Need more inspiration? Stop by The Country Barn, where our team can help you select the best bulbs, tools, and products to prepare your garden for a breathtaking spring.