How Late Can You Plant Bare Root Trees?

Bare root trees are a popular choice for many gardeners who want to plant young trees in their landscape. Unlike potted trees, bare root trees are sold without soil or a container. This means that they are lighter and easier to handle, making them less expensive to transport and easier to plant. However, planting time is an important factor to consider when it comes to bare root trees. Here's what you need to know.

Planting Season for Bare Root Trees

The best time to plant bare root trees is during the dormant season, which is typically in late fall or early spring. During the dormant season, trees are not actively growing, which means they are less likely to suffer from transplant shock. Additionally, planting trees during the dormant season allows them to establish a strong root system before the hot summer months arrive.

How Late Can You Plant Bare Root Trees in the Fall?

In general, it's best to plant bare root trees in the fall when the trees are dormant. However, if you miss the fall planting season, you may be wondering how late you can safely plant bare root trees. The answer will depend on your climate and how quickly the ground freezes in your area.

Frost Dates and Planting Time

To determine the best time to plant bare root trees in the fall, you'll need to know your average frost dates. In areas with mild winters, frost dates may not occur until late November or even December. In these areas, you may be able to plant bare root trees as late as Thanksgiving without any issues.

Planting Bare Root Trees Late in the Fall

If your area experiences early frost or cold temperatures, you'll need to plant your bare root trees earlier in the fall. This is because newly planted trees need time to establish their root systems before the ground freezes. Planting too late in the fall can result in the roots not having enough time to establish themselves, which can lead to the tree becoming stressed or even dying.

How Late Can You Plant Bare Root Trees in the Spring?

In the spring, bare root trees can be planted as soon as the ground has thawed and is no longer frozen. This usually happens in early to mid-spring in most areas. As long as you plant the trees before they begin to leaf out, you should have success with planting bare root trees in the spring.

Planting Bare Root Trees Too Late

Planting bare root trees too late in the spring can also cause problems. If the trees have already started to leaf out, transplanting them can damage the roots and cause the tree to go into shock. This can make it difficult for the tree to survive and establish itself in its new location.

Conclusion

Planting bare root trees can be a great way to save money and time while still adding beauty and value to your landscape. However, it's important to consider the best planting times for bare root trees to ensure their success. Whether you're planting in the fall or the spring, be sure to give your trees plenty of time to establish themselves before the hot summer months arrive.