Monday 17 October 2016

Autumn is for Planting Too!

Posted at 4:19 PM

Autumn isn’t just for enjoying the beautiful leaf colors, it is for planting too! As trees become dormant and rainfall is plentiful, autumn is the ideal time for planting trees.

                                                                              

With the change in seasons, roots begin rapid growth as leaves are changing color and falling from the tree. This autumn root growth spurt mirrors the root growth that occurs in the spring, just prior to bud break.  Newly forming roots help the tree to recover from transplanting and develop a strong root system before the winter chill hits and the ground freezes. Cooler weather also means less drying and better soil moisture for transplant recovery. It is important to keep trees watered with about one inch of water per week until the ground freezes. The strong, hydrated tree will be better prepared for the winter’s icy temperatures.

Keep in mind, fall is not the ideal time to plant all trees. Trees that are most successfully planted in autumn include:

  • Maples
  • Elms
  • Honey locust
  • Linden
  • Japanese tree lilac
  • Evergreens

It is best to wait until spring to plant the following trees:

  • Oaks
  • Hickory
  • Crabapples
  • Flowering pear
  • Magnolias
  • Ironwood

Please contact us if you have any questions on what trees can be planted in autumn.