Southridge Blog

Fall in Massachusetts is a critical time for gardening—get it right, and you’ll set up a beautiful and healthy garden for spring. In this post, you’ll learn how to avoid common fall gardening mistakes like planting too late, skipping soil testing, overlooking leaf cleanup, using the wrong fertilizer for cooler weather, and leaving dead annuals unremoved. These simple tips can make a big difference in your garden’s health—read on to prepare your yard the Southridge way!

Common Planting Mistakes Gardeners Make in Massachusetts during Fall

Mistiming your fall planting is a frequent issue. Planting too late risks frost damage, while planting too early can leave roots vulnerable to cold slump. Aim to plant hardy perennials and shrubs 4–6 weeks before your typical first frost date, giving them time to establish strong roots.
For more on what to plant in each season and when, check out our MA Seasonal Planting Guide. Linking your planting schedule with this guide ensures your garden thrives.

The Dangers of Planting Too Late in the Season

Waiting too long to plant in autumn can be just as damaging as planting too early. When roots don’t have enough time to grow, plants arrive unprepared for winter and may struggle in spring. To avoid this, stick to cooler-adapted species and allow a few weeks before permanent frost. Southridge Farm stocks a variety of fall-hardy plants—visit us soon to pick out the right ones for your garden.

Overlooking Leaf Cleanup and How It Impacts Lawn and Garden Health

Leaving fallen leaves on your lawn or garden doesn’t just look messy—it can block sunlight, encourage fungal disease, and smother young plants. Clear leaves regularly and compost them instead—Southridge transforms leaves into nutrient-rich compost and screened loam that you can use to enrich your soil. Learn more about how we turn yard waste into quality products in our About Us page.

Using the Wrong Type of Fertilizer in Cooler New England Weather

In fall, your plants’ nutrient needs shift toward survival, not growth. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that encourage shaky late-season growth. Instead, choose a balanced or low-nitrogen mix to promote root development and hardiness. Southridge offers plant-specific fertilizers suitable for fall conditions.

Not Removing Dead Annuals and Vegetables Before Winter

Dead annuals and spent veggies left in the ground can harbor pests and disease. Remove and dispose of them or add them to your compost pile—Southridge’s homemade compost is perfect for turning old plant material into nutrient-packed soil amendment. This cleanup also clears space for effective winter mulch, helping your garden beds breathe and prepare for spring planting.

Conclusion

Avoiding these five fall gardening mistakes—planting timing errors, leaf neglect, inappropriate fertilizing, and ignoring spent plants—will set your Massachusetts garden up for a stronger spring. Ready to do it right? Stop by Southridge Farm & Nursery for compost, mulch, soil testing advice, fall-appropriate fertilizers, and locally adapted plant options. Let’s prep your garden today for tomorrow’s blooms!