When to Plant Cedar Trees in Missouri

Cedar trees are a popular tree species to plant in Missouri due to their many benefits, such as providing shade, privacy, and soil erosion control. However, planting cedar trees at the wrong time can affect their growth and overall health. Therefore, it's crucial to know when to plant cedar trees in Missouri to ensure their success.

The Best Time to Plant Cedar Trees

The best time to plant cedar trees in Missouri is during the fall or early spring. Planting during these seasons provides mild temperatures and adequate soil moisture, providing optimal conditions for rooting and growth. Late fall and early spring are also ideal because the trees are dormant and experiencing less stress, making transplanting and acclimation easier.

Planting Cedar Trees in the Fall

Fall is considered one of the best times to plant cedar trees in Missouri. Planting during this season allows the trees to establish roots before winter dormancy sets in. However, it's essential to avoid planting too late in the fall, which can impact the tree's survival. Ideally, the tree should have at least six weeks of growing time before the first frost.

Planting Cedar Trees in the Early Spring

Early spring is another optimal time to plant cedar trees in Missouri. The month of March is considered the perfect time because the soil is warm enough to encourage root growth, but the weather is still cool enough to prevent water loss via evaporation. However, it's essential to avoid planting too early in the spring while the ground is still frozen or too late in the spring when temperatures rise rapidly.

Planting Cedar Trees in the Summertime

While it's possible to plant cedar trees in Missouri during the summer, it's not recommended. Planting during the summertime puts the tree at risk of heat stress and root damage due to high temperatures, low humidity and can lead to inadequate soil moisture. This can cause the tree to lose water faster than it can uptake, leading to transplant shock or death.

Preparing the Site for Planting

Preparing the site where you intend to plant cedar trees is critical to their success. Cedar trees prefer well-draining soils, so you must choose a spot with adequate drainage. If the soil is compacted or heavy in clay, you might want to consider loosening up the soil using a soil aerator or compost to improve the soil structure. You will also want to avoid areas that have standing water or are prone to flooding.

Wrapping Up

Properly timing the planting of cedar trees in Missouri is crucial to ensuring their survival and growth. While the best time to plant cedar trees in Missouri is during the fall and early spring, it's essential to avoid planting during the summertime when temperatures are high. If you follow the planting tips, you can successfully plant and grow healthy and beautiful cedar trees in Missouri.