When the temperature is moderate—that is, not excessively hot, not excessively cold, not excessively wet, or dry—lawns, shrubs, and flowers flourish. Though we plant landscapes all year long in North Florida, there are some seasons when it is better than others. Fall is unquestionably one of those seasons. It is vital to know the ideal times of year to landscape in North Florida.
On the first lovely day of spring, many of us get the planting itch, but that may not be the best time to begin your landscaping project. Newly planted plants, shrubs, and sod may experience stress from several areas in spring - but the most common is drought.
Sod can be laid in north Florida virtually year-around if the weather is mild enough, but because of the warm temperatures and higher likelihood of drought in spring, fall is often the best time for root formation and development.
Of course, the two most important pieces to success with new sod are irrigation and a lawn pest control program.
The best and most comfortable time of the year to start your North Florida landscaping job is in the fall because it tends to be cooler and less humid. Because winter in Florida is also a milder season, planting sod, shrubs, and perennials in the fall allows them to establish their root systems longer and become healthy by spring.
In comparison to plants planted in the spring, summer performance is improved by plants with more developed root systems. The perennial plants will grow and be prepared to bud.The fall is also the optimum season for transplanting and dividing perennials like lilies, irises, and other plants.
It can be challenging for many new landscapers to decide which sod to use and when to plant it. Whether your goal is to increase curb appeal, design an area for entertaining guests, or reduce maintenance, your effort and investment must flourish to be successful.
You must be fully informed about your soil conditions, preferred sod, irrigation needs, sun/shade demands, and fertilization/pest control requirements if you want to ensure that your landscape is as successful as possible. We would love to help you out with your next landscape project!
Here are a few videos that might answer other sod questions:
Should I use Seed, Plug, or Sod to Repair Bare Spots in my Gainesville Lawn?
What happens to New Sod in Heavy Shade? & Shade Alternatives?
Benefit #1 of St. Augustine ProVista Sod: Lower Maintenace
Benefit #2 of St. Augustine ProVista Sod: Invasive Weed Control