What Trees Can I Plant in October?

Spring and fall are the best times of year to plant trees because the weather is mild and the trees have time to establish their roots before extreme temperatures hit. If you missed the chance to plant trees in the spring, don't worry! October is the perfect month to plant a variety of trees. Keep reading to find out what trees you can plant in October.

1. Red Maples

If you live in a region with cool to moderate temperatures, October is the best time to plant red maples. They can grow to be anywhere from 40 to 70 feet tall and 30 to 50 feet wide. Red maples provide spectacular fall foliage, with leaves turning shades of red, orange and yellow.

2. Dogwoods

Dogwoods are attractive trees that grow up to 35 feet in height with delicate, white or pink flowers blooming in the spring. While dogwoods are easy to grow, they do require a moderate amount of watering to keep their roots moist. Planting in the fall can offset that effort, with natural rain providing enough moisture for the roots to grow strong and healthy.

3. Oak Trees

Oak trees are known for their durability and majestic appearance. They can grow to be very large and live for many years. October is an ideal time to plant oak trees because the soil is still warm enough for their roots to establish before the onset of frost, and the cooler temperatures in autumn help prevent heat damage to the leaves.

4. Tulip Trees

Tulip trees, also known as yellow poplars, are tall, fast-growing trees that can reach up to 90 feet in height. They bloom with small, fragrant flowers in the spring before their leaves are produced. Planting tulip trees in the fall can provide a stunning focal point in your landscape after a year or two of growth.

5. Japanese Maples

If you're looking for a smaller tree to add to your garden or landscape, Japanese maples are a beautiful option. They grow up to 30 feet in height and have delicate, branching leaves that provide a striking visual appeal in the fall when they turn shades of deep red, orange, or yellow.

Conclusion

Now you know what trees you can plant in October. Whether you prefer hardwoods, deciduous trees or evergreens, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. Planting a tree this fall can provide years of beauty and environmental benefits to your home and community. With the right care and attention, they can thrive for a lifetime.