Is Fall a Good Time to Plant Trees and Shrubs?

Planting trees and shrubs is one of the best things you can do for your yard, your community, and the environment at large. But when’s the best time to plant? While many people believe that the spring is the optimal season for tree and shrub planting, fall is actually a great time to get these plants into the ground.

Advantages of Planting in the Fall

There are numerous reasons why fall planting is advantageous. For one, the cooler temperatures of the autumn months allow for less stress on the plants’ roots. Additionally, the soil is still warm from the summer months and there is generally more moisture in the air, creating ideal conditions for root growth. Plus, fall planting means the trees and shrubs have more time to establish their root systems before the onset of winter.

What to Plant in the Fall

While you can technically plant any tree or shrub in the fall, some varieties are especially suited for autumn planting. For example, deciduous trees, which lose their leaves in the fall, are prime candidates for autumn planting. This is because the lack of leaves allows the trees to focus their energy on root growth. Additionally, certain shrubs, such as butterfly bush and burning bush, are hardy enough to be planted in the fall and will bloom beautifully come springtime.

How to Plant in the Fall

If you’ve decided to plant trees or shrubs in the fall, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure to pick a location that gets ample sunlight and has well-drained soil. You don’t want your plants sitting in sitting water come winter. Second, be sure to dig your hole twice the width of the root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself. This will ensure the roots have plenty of room to spread out while preventing the plant from sitting too low in the ground. Finally, be sure to give your new plant plenty of water to help it establish its roots before the ground freezes over for the winter.

Conclusion

Fall can be a great time to plant trees and shrubs, provided you do it correctly. Be sure to select plants that are amenable to autumn planting, and make sure to prepare the soil, dig the holes properly, and give your new plants plenty of water. By taking these steps, you can help ensure that your new trees and shrubs will thrive come springtime and beyond, adding beauty and value to your yard for years to come.