Planting in the Fall: Why Austin Gardens Thrive This Time of Year
Plus: A Huge Shoutout to TreeFolks for Free Trees Delivered to Your Doorstep!
If you’ve lived in Austin long enough, you know our summers don’t exactly roll out the red carpet for new plants. Fall, though? Fall is where the magic happens. As the temperatures ease up and the soil stays warm, your garden finally gets the conditions it needs to establish strong roots before winter. Think of it as giving your plants a head start before the rush of spring growth.
Whether you’re working with a small backyard, a new build with a blank slate, or simply want to add a little life to your home’s landscape, the fall planting season is hands-down the smartest time to dig in.
Why Fall Is the Ideal Planting Season in Austin
1. Cooler temps = less stress.
Plants — like people — don’t love being pushed into new environments during a 100º+ heat wave. Fall’s cooler air helps reduce shock and supports healthier growth.
2. Warm soil builds strong roots.
Even as the air cools, Austin’s soil stays warm well into November and December. That means roots can establish more quickly, giving your plants (especially trees and perennials) a strong foundation for spring.
3. Lower water needs.
With cooler weather and shorter days, plants require far less watering. That’s a win for both your water bill and sustainability.
4. Fewer pests and diseases.
Summer pests slow down in the fall, which means your new plants get a calmer start.
What to Plant Right Now
If you're ready to start digging, here’s what thrives when planted in the fall in Austin:
Trees: Live oak, cedar elm, red oak, desert willow, Mexican plum
Shrubs: Texas sage, yaupon holly, mountain laurel, dwarf bottlebrush
Perennials: Salvia, lantana, rosemary, turk’s cap, limestone phlox
Veggies: Leafy greens, broccoli, root veggies, herbs
A Big Shoutout to TreeFolks — Free 5-Gallon Trees Delivered to Austin Residents!
If you’ve been dreaming of adding shade, beauty, or value to your property, this is one of Austin’s best-kept secrets: TreeFolks will deliver a free 5-gallon tree right to your home. Yes — free. And yes — delivered.
TreeFolks is an incredible local nonprofit committed to reforesting Central Texas and supporting urban canopy growth. Their programs help residents plant native and climate-resilient species that thrive in our environment. It’s a simple way to make a long-term impact not just on your home, but on the city as a whole.
Check out their NeighborWoods program to see if your address qualifies — most Austin residents do. It’s a gift worth taking advantage of.
Final Thought
Fall planting is one of those small decisions that pays off big. With a few well-chosen plants and maybe a free tree from TreeFolks, you’re setting up your landscape — and your home — for years of shade, color, and growth.
If you ever want help choosing the right trees or plants for your property, or you’re curious how landscaping can affect home value, I’m always happy to be a resource.
Jennifer Carey
Realtor and Agent Success Manager at Open House Austin, real estate investor, and renovation enthusiast with Wimberley Airbnbs. She loves mid-century modern design, hiking Austin with her dogs, yoga and pilates, and has been enjoying gardening at her new home in East Austin🎶✨
