How to Tell if Trees Planted in Fall Survived

Fall is a great time to plant trees because the cooler temperatures provide ideal growing conditions. But how can you tell if the trees you planted have survived the winter months? Here are some tips to help you determine if your fall-planted trees are still alive and kicking.

Check for Bud Break

One of the easiest ways to tell if a tree has survived the winter is to look for bud break in the spring. This is the time when new buds emerge and start to grow. If you see signs of life in the form of new buds and leaves, then your tree is still alive.

Some trees, such as maples, have buds that are easy to see, while others, such as oaks, have buds that are harder to spot. If you're not sure what to look for, do some research to learn about the specific tree species you've planted.

Check for Green Living Tissue Beneath the Bark

If you don't see any buds, you can also check the bark of the tree to determine if it's still alive. Scrape away a small section of the bark in a few places around the tree trunk. Look for green living tissue beneath the outer bark. If you see green, then your tree is still alive. If it's brown or gray, the tree has likely died.

Inspect the Roots

If you're still not sure if your tree has survived the winter, you can dig up a small section of soil around the base of the tree and inspect the roots. Healthy roots will be firm and white or light brown in color. If the roots are mushy or black, the tree has likely died.

Be careful when digging around the tree, as you don't want to damage the roots. If you do find that the roots are damaged or unhealthy, you may still be able to save the tree by pruning the damaged roots and providing extra care and attention to help the tree recover.

Assess the Overall Appearance of the Tree

Finally, you can also assess the overall appearance of the tree to determine if it's still alive. Look for signs of life such as new growth and leaves, and check for any signs of damage such as cracked or broken branches. If the tree looks healthy and vibrant, it's likely that it has survived the winter.

Keep in mind that some trees take longer to bounce back from winter dormancy than others. It's important to be patient and not give up on your tree too soon. With proper care and attention, many trees can recover from even severe winter damage.

Conclusion

Planting trees in the fall is a great way to get a head start on your landscaping goals. However, it's important to know how to tell if your fall-planted trees have survived the winter months. By checking for bud break, inspecting the roots, and assessing the overall appearance of the tree, you can determine if your trees are still alive and thriving. With a little bit of care and attention, you can help your trees recover and continue to grow for years to come.