Planting trees and shrubs promotes a healthy environment, reduces storm water runoff and supports the state’s greenhouse industry. Fall is the best time of the year to plant trees, shrubs and hardy perennials to improve outdoor spaces, support a healthy environment and help keep harmful runoff from our streams. To build awareness, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe proclaims October as Fall is for Planting Month in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Click here to view the Governor’s Proclamation.
The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) joins the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, the Central Virginia Nursery and Landscape Association, the Green Industry Council and the James River Association to support this important initiative and encourage Virginians to add plants to their home and community landscapes this month.
Cooler temperatures, warm soils, increased rains and fewer pests make fall an ideal time of year for planting. Trees and shrubs have nine months for roots to develop and grow before they have to face the harsh heat and potential drought of summer. Fall soils are warm enough to promote root growth, and there is less need to water. Adding trees and shrubs, especially native plants, to the landscape helps slow the flow of storm water runoff and pollutants into streams and, eventually, the Chesapeake Bay.
In addition to the environmental benefits of planting, consumers who purchase Virginia Grown trees, shrubs and perennials are supporting one of the state’s fastest growing agriculture segments. Virginia has 290 commercial plant growers that generate $272 million in sales and $1.2 billion in landscaping, installation and maintenance. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the greenhouse and nursery industry ranks as Virginia’s 6thlargest agricultural commodity.
Consumers can search for local products, nurseries and farms on VirginiaGrown.com.
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