Is It Too Late To Plant Evergreen Trees In December?

December is one of the coldest months of the year in many regions, and it is quite common for gardeners to wonder whether it's too late to plant evergreen trees at this time. Evergreen trees are popular for their year-round foliage, which provides shade, privacy, and beautification to gardens and homes. However, planting evergreen trees at the wrong time can damage or even kill them. In this article, we will explore whether it's too late to plant evergreen trees in December, and what are the risks and benefits of doing so.

The Risks Of Planting Evergreen Trees In December

Generally speaking, the best time to plant evergreen trees is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the soil is moist. Planting in December poses several risks, some of which include:

Frost damage: December nights can be very cold, and frost can damage the tree's roots and foliage.

Drought stress: In some regions, December is also a dry month, which can stress the newly planted tree and hinder its growth.

Nutrient depletion: If the soil is frozen or poor in nutrients, the tree may not get the proper nourishment it needs to grow and thrive.

Transplant shock: Transplanting a tree can shock its root system and cause it to go into shock or even die.

The Benefits Of Planting Evergreen Trees In December

While planting evergreen trees in December comes with some risks, there are still some benefits to doing so, especially if you live in a region with mild winter weather. Here are some of the benefits:

Cooler soil temperatures: December soil temperatures are generally cooler, which can help prevent the tree from drying out and becoming stressed.

Less competition: December is not a popular planting season, which means that there is less competition for resources like water and nutrients.

Better access to planting materials: Nurseries and gardening stores often have discounted rates on pruning shears, shovels, and other planting materials during December.

How To Plant Evergreen Trees In December

If you decide to go ahead and plant evergreen trees in December, here are some tips to remember:

Choose a hardy evergreen tree that can survive the winter weather in your area.

Plant the tree in a location that gets adequate sunlight and drainage, but is protected from frost and strong winds.

Prepare the soil beforehand by adding compost, fertilizers, and other organic matter to improve its texture and nutrient content.

Water the tree regularly, but avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.

Mulch around the tree to retain moisture and protect its roots from frost and temperature fluctuations.

Monitor the tree's growth and health, and address any signs of stress or disease as soon as possible.

In Conclusion

While it's generally not recommended to plant evergreen trees in December, it is still possible to do so with some caution, preparation, and care. Ultimately, the decision to plant in December or not depends on your location, soil conditions, and the type of evergreen tree you want to plant. If you're unsure whether planting in December is right for you, consult with a local gardening expert or tree nursery for more advice.