Monty Don has advised gardeners to make the most of the autumn season and get new roots growing before the cold weather really settles in and the trees become dormant
Monty Don has shared some timely advice with his fellow garden enthusiasts.
With a nod to the chilly weather that has arrived, Monty emphasised the importance of planting trees and shrubs before the frost sets in to ensure robust root growth up until the festive season. Speaking on Gardeners’ World, Monty explained that autumn presents an ideal time for transplanting deciduous trees and shrubs.
Despite appearances, he pointed out that these plants have become dormant by October. “It’s always a really good time of year in autumn to be planting any trees or shrubs because as you learn to garden, you’re told the best time of year to plant deciduous plants is when it’s dormant, and that tends to be taken for granted when its foliage has fallen off.”
He stressed that while leaves may remain vibrant and green, relocating the plants helps their roots flourish towards year’s end. This not only reduces stress on the plants but also sets them up for a more vigorous comeback come spring.
Monty advised: “But actually, it stops growing, in terms of foliage or flower, by October, even though the leaves may still be on and looking quite fresh and green.” He underscored the continuous growth of roots even after the above-ground part stops developing, reports the Express. “But the root growth will continue, so if you dig it up and transplant it, and water it in well, the root growth can carry on, sometimes right until Christmas when it gets cold.”
Monty clarified how this groundwork aids the plants to better withstand the rigours of the spring season: “That means it is doing so without any stress on it from growth from foliage and the shoots and it gets established quicker. And then, in the spring, when it really has to service new growth all around, it’s in a much better place to do it.”
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) suggests October and November is the ideal time for moving and planting trees, shrubs, and climbers, as well as for hedge setting. The RHS advises that root-wrapped evergreens and deciduous trees make excellent autumn plantings because: “They are cheaper than containerised plants, and are the perfect choice whenever large numbers are needed – perhaps for a new hedge, woodland or a rose bed.
“You can still order containerised trees and shrubs, and large semi-mature specimens, for planting over the winter.” When November arrived, gardeners would have noticed their deciduous trees shedding leaves due to the colder weather shift. Despite this, some gardening enthusiasts contend that November is also prime for planting all varieties of trees, saplings and hedges.