Welcome to 2 J’s & Sons’ blog, your go-to source for all things landscaping and lawn care in Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri. As we transition into the fall season, it’s the perfect time to think about adding to your garden or landscape for next year. Here are some of the best fall planted native plants for NW Arkansas & SW Missouri
Why Planting At The Right Time Is Important
Planting native species in the fall in Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri offers several advantages. During fall, the soil is still warm from the summer. This encourages root development and establishment before winter. Cooler temperatures reduce stress on young plants. Rainfall is higher, reducing the need for frequent watering.
Fall planting allows native plants to benefit from the winter dormancy period. New plants emerge in the spring with a well-established root system. Better equipped to withstand the challenges of the growing season. Overall, fall planting provides a strategic advantage for successful growth and long-term health of these native plants. Helping to ensuring they thrive in your garden or landscape.
Flowers That Should Be Sown In Autumn
- Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea):
- Native to both Arkansas and Missouri.
- Blooms from late spring to early fall.
- Attracts pollinators like butterflies and bees.
- Drought-tolerant once established.
- Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium):
- A native grass species.
- Adds ornamental beauty with its reddish-brown fall foliage.
- Low maintenance and drought-resistant.
- Ideal for creating naturalistic landscapes.
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta):
- Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Produces striking yellow blooms with dark centers.
- Excellent for attracting wildlife, including birds and butterflies.
- Self-seeding and low-maintenance.
- Ozark Coneflower (Echinacea paradoxa):
- Unique coneflower species native to the Ozark region.
- Features yellow petals and a dark brown cone.
- Grows well in rocky, well-drained soils.
- A stunning addition to any garden.
- Eastern Red Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis):
- Prefers partial shade and well-drained soil.
- Red and yellow bell-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds.
- Naturalizes and self-seeds in the right conditions.
- Perfect for woodland gardens.
- Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis):
- A small tree with stunning pink to purple spring blooms.
- Thrives in both Arkansas and Missouri.
- Ideal for adding vertical interest to your landscape.
- Provides habitat for pollinators.
- Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum):
- Another native grass species.
- Turns golden in the fall, adding visual interest.
- Excellent for erosion control and wildlife habitat.
- Low maintenance once established.
- Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa):
- Produces fragrant lavender-pink flowers
- Attracts pollinators and hummingbirds.
- Well-suited for rain gardens and naturalized areas.
- Native to both states.
Shrubs and Tree Best Planted During Fall
- Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea):
- Features striking red stems in the winter.
- Can be pruned for a neat and formal appearance.
- Ideal for creating winter interest in a formal garden.
- Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.):
- Offers delicate white spring blooms.
- Can be shaped into a small tree or shrub.
- Provides beautiful fall foliage.
- Buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis):
- Boasts unique spherical flower heads.
- Can be pruned to maintain a tidy shape.
- Attracts pollinators.
- Blue Star (Amsonia spp.):
- Showcases clusters of blue star-shaped flowers.
- Grows in a mounded shape.
- Excellent for formal borders or as a specimen plant.
Non Natives That Are Best Planted In Fall
- Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia):
- Known for its large, oak-shaped leaves.
- Produces cone-shaped white flowers.
- Suitable for a more formal garden setting.
- Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum):
- While not native, Japanese maples can add a touch of grace with their foliage and stunning fall colors.
- Boxwood (Buxus spp.):
- A classic choice for formal hedges and borders.
- Offers dense, evergreen foliage.
- Provides structure and symmetry in a formal garden.
Please note that while these plants are native to broader regions of Northwest Arkansas and the ozarks. Specific microclimates and soil conditions can vary. It’s a good idea to consult with a local nursery or horticulturist for advice on which native plants will thrive in your garden location.
Why Planting In Fall Is Best For Some Plants
By incorporating these native plants into your fall landscaping projects, you can enhance the beauty of your outdoor spaces while supporting local wildlife and conserving water. At 2 J’s & Sons, we’re committed to helping you create sustainable and stunning landscapes in Northwest Arkansas and Southwest Missouri. If you need assistance with planting or landscaping services, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Happy gardening!
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