As summer winds down, Central Indiana gardeners know fall isn’t the end of the growing season; it’s actually one of the best times to plant. Cooler temperatures and increased rainfall make autumn ideal for establishing roots before winter sets in. So, whether you’re planning a fresh landscape or enhancing existing beds, knowing what to plant and when is the key to your success.

Why Fall Is Ideal for Planting

Central Indiana is fortunate to experience all four seasons, and that variety makes it a surprisingly great place for year-round gardening. However, in the fall, the soil is still warm from summer, which allows roots to grow and strengthen. Plants experience less stress from heat and evaporation, meaning they can focus on root development instead of fighting to survive. Then, when spring arrives, these well-rooted plants will thrive faster and often bloom bigger.

What to Plant This Fall in Central Indiana

Here’s what’s best to plant when you take advantage of our region’s fall planting window:

Trees and Shrubs
Fall is prime time for planting maples, oaks, and ornamental trees like dogwoods or redbuds. Shrubs such as hydrangeas, boxwoods, and viburnum also establish beautifully in cooler weather. These woody plants benefit from months of root growth before summer stress hits.

Perennials
You can add long-term beauty with perennials like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, hostas, and daylilies. Planting in the fall allows them to build root systems that lead to fuller blooms next season.

Grasses and Groundcovers
Native ornamental grasses like switchgrass and little bluestem bring texture and movement to your fall landscapes. Groundcovers like creeping thyme and ajuga provide excellent erosion control and keep your landscape visually appealing (often retaining some foliage or texture) through the winter.

Fall Vegetables
Central Indiana’s cooler months are perfect for cold-hardy vegetables. Try planting kale, spinach, lettuce, radishes, and carrots. If frost threatens, you can protect your tender crops with row covers or cold frames to extend your harvest.

When to Plant

Now that you have inspiration for what to plant, when should you start? Your timing depends on the forecast, of course, but aim to plant four to six weeks before the first hard frost, typically by mid to late October in Central Indiana. This gives roots time to establish before the ground freezes.

Pro Tip: Start with Quality Soils, Mulch, and Supplies

Healthy plants start with healthy soil. Musselman Landscape Solutions offers high-quality soils and locally grown plants that are specifically suited for Central Indiana’s climate. Our team can help you choose varieties that will thrive in your yard’s conditions.

And don’t forget the mulch! Why is it so important? Mulch is one of the simplest and most effective tools for fall planting success. A two to three-inch layer of high-quality mulch helps:

• Regulate soil temperature, protecting new roots from sudden freezes.
• Conserve moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering.
• Suppress weeds, keeping your new plantings healthy.
• Enhance soil health as it naturally breaks down over time.

Musselman Landscape Solutions offers premium mulches in natural, dyed, and compost-enriched varieties, perfect for any landscape style. This fall, applying mulch around your trees, shrubs, and perennials helps set your garden up for even stronger spring growth.

Partner with the Pros

At Musselman Landscape Solutions, we specialize in keeping Central Indiana landscapes healthy year-round—from soil prep and aeration to seasonal cleanups. Combine our lawn expertise with locally sourced plants and products for a landscape that flourishes season after season.

Ready to plan your fall planting?
Visit Musselman Landscape Solutions for help preparing your lawn and garden for a strong start next spring.