There are so many things you can plant in the fall, here in Surrey, where the garden zone is roughly USDA 8a or b, that a complete treatment of the subject would be beyond the scope of this blog article. Nevertheless, we will give you a few hints today on what you can plant in the fall.

Bulbs

Daffodil, tulip, and crocus bulbs should be planted in the fall, but not quite yet. Wait until you have to wear a jacket outside during the day, but the ground has not frozen yet. And don’t worry about spacing them apart. As long as they are not touching, they will be fine. Remember that daffodils will naturalize, so allow them space because you will have more each year.

For crocuses, try planting them in the lawn at random. They will flower and be done long before you have to mow in Surrey, and your lawn will look beautiful. Everyone will love the flowers in January and February peeking out of the snow.

Vegetables

You can plant lettuce, carrots, and peas right now. Lettuce and peas like the cool shoulder season, and the carrots you can harvest in the spring.

Another thing you could plant now in your vegetable beds is a cover crop like mustard, which you can work into the soil in the spring to enrich the ground.

Trees and Shrubs

Now is the perfect time to plant trees and shrubs. It is much easier on them when it is no longer so hot outside, but they have time to establish themselves before the hard frost. Just be sure to water them enough when they are newly planted, like twice a week unless it is raining every day.

Divide and Conquer

You can also dig up things like daylilies and irises and divide them and replant. Or give some to your friends and neighbours if you have too many. This is the right season for that.

Fall is a wonderful time of the year. Come and visit us in Surrey at our flagship store, and we will be happy to answer your questions.

Art Knapp has 15 locations across British Columbia and is well known as the go-to garden centre for everything garden-related. Art Knapp, himself, began the business in the 1940's, and now, 80 years later, you can find more than he ever dreamed of in our stores. Come and see us on King George Boulevard in Surrey. 

If you have any questions about this article or want to talk to us about gardening, just give us a call at (604) 596-9201.