'The Gardener Guy' Shares Tips On Fall Planting

As summer nears an end, many Oklahomans will start fall planting in the garden.

Former HGTV Star, Paul James, “The Gardener Guy,” says spring planting is good for top growth like leaves and branches, but fall planting helps the most important part, the roots.

When you think of gardening, you probably think about springtime. But James says fall is the best time of year to plant.

He says when you plant trees and shrubs in the spring, a lot of energy is directed upwards producing things like stems and fruit. Less energy is devoted to the roots.

"When you plant in fall, just the opposite happens,” James said.

Since leaves drop in the fall, the energy in plants is focused on the foundation.

"The secret to a healthy plant is a good root system,” James said.

He says for months, a good root mass is developed so when spring returns, the plants are ready to go.

Fall is also a prime time for your vegetable garden.

From carrots to arugula and radishes to spinach, James says the season creates an ideal setting.

"Cooler temperatures, more dependable garden variety rain showers, fewer pests, it's just more exciting to be outside to me,” James said.

James says when the veggies are hit by a frost, they develop sugars making them taste better.

A tip, he says the most important thing to remember when planting a seed is to keep your soil moist.