The Real Dirt

Note: This is the second in a three-part series on native plants that have proven successful on the author's property along the Lindo Channel in Chico. The previous article discussed large trees; the final article in the series will cover smaller shrubs.

Fall is an excellent time to plant trees and shrubs. The soil is still warm, so roots will have time to establish themselves long before the punishing heat of next summer arrives. If you are thinking of planting a large tree, here are several to consider.

The arrival of fall brings shorter days, cooler nights and a gradual winding down of garden activity. Flowers start to fade, while leaves turn glorious colors and begin to fall from the trees. For many gardeners, though, fall isn't a time to relax and put their feet up.

Fall is the best time to put new plants in the ground. They can establish roots and become accustomed to conditions in their new home before going dormant for the winter, then benefit from the mild spring conditions before the scorching heat of summer arrives.

Although California has a long history of the commercial growing of oranges and other citrus, citrus trees are not native to California. Citrus is native to South and East Asia, Melanesia and Australia.