Focusing On Fall
Spring and summer bring lush greenery and a procession of vibrant blooms to your outdoor surroundings. Fall, however, is the actual linchpin in creating an evolving, multi-seasonal landscaping show. “The temperatures in September and October – the cooler mornings, the warmer afternoons – deliver the most optimal climate for plants to take into the ground, when roots can grow far, deep and wide and get established,” explains Marcus Celiano, owner of Golden Wolf Landscape & Design, LLC. “And the ample rainfall usually experienced in fall allows the plants to have a smoother transition when being transplanted or installed. It’s not as big a shock to the system.”
What plants do you recommend?
Native plants with a natural genetic advantage of adapting to the local climate include such familiar favorites as Lavender, Black-eyed Susan, Coreopsis, and Coneflower (also known as Echinacea). However, many non-native perennials can be installed during the fall season and nearly any fall planting will experience explosive growth in spring. Additionally, partnering with a supplier who has connections to growers across America enables Golden Wolf to offer a vast inventory of ornamental species. Depending on the climate and setting, the only annual planting timed to the autumnal season are brightly hued Mums – although even these can be perennials depending on how well they are planted.
Does grass need special attention?
The cool climate grasses suitable to New Jersey include Kentucky Blue Grass, Perennial Rye Grass, Tall Fescue and Fine Fescue, which vary in color and leaf shape and are matched to the needs of the growing conditions. That said, they all benefit from seasonal maintenance. Fall is the best time for any type of lawn treatment, specifically aeration, thatching, and overseeding for a thicker and fuller lawn. Just like caring for other plantings, cooler weather and abundant rainfall will be less stressful to the turf – when compared with a 90° day. Cool climate grasses go dormant and look brown in both hot weather and winter, making autumn ideal for grabbing a book and beverage and lounging in a lawn chair.
One chore worth mentioning is “fall cleanup”: Leaves shed by trees are detrimental to lawn health and can raise the risk of lawn disease from insects. This task also makes “spring spruce-up” easier and more cost effective.
When should hardscaping amenities be considered?
Start planning now: How do you envision an outdoor living space enhancing life in years to come? Whether a simple patio or an elaborate al fresco kitchen, never overlook the primal appeal of flickering flames. A fire pit or fireplace delivers abundant ambiance and inviting warmth on a nippy evening. It’s a close-knit space where kids can recount pumpkin picking adventures and friends can sip hot mulled cider. Just keep in mind that smores appeal to both groups. Expect plenty of regular guests.
If you are not currently a customer of Golden Wolf Landscape & Design LLC, we would love to add you to our growing family of customers. Our focus is on residential and commercial properties in New Jersey. Our goal is to provide the best experience and value for each and every one of our customers. Contact us at (908) 578-1179. You can also fill out a request form for a quote on our website under our “Contact Us” tab. We're looking forward to hearing from you!