Planting Trees

[Knight]

When is the best time of year to plant trees?

Does it matter what type of tree you're planting?

 

[Philip]

When is the best time of year to plant trees?
Does it matter what type of tree you're planting?

It does depend on the type of tree, as well as the condition of the tree and your location. As a general rule, during the fall, after the tree has finished its growth cycle, is best. Even though the top of the tree is dorment, the roots are very active. They will grow throughout the winter, giving the tree a head start in the spring.

 

[stumpsitting101]

I think Phillip summed it up fairly well. I would add, ask a local plant nursery dealer or the Ag. Extention Agent in your county.
Ken

 

[caritas]

Phillip's advice goes well for those regions with more mild winters. For my region (western Washington state), fall is the best planting time. But below a soil temperature of about 40 deg F most tree roots do indeed go dormant. Still, as long as your winters are not so cold so as to deeply freeze the soil risking frost heaving of the newly planted tree you are probably safe in planting in the fall anyway.
Tree species does have an effect. Ponderosa Pine, for example, will ONLY grow new roots IN SPRING.

 

[chilehed]

In SE Michigan I have the best results planting in spring or summer - it gives them a chance to get established before winter.

 

[GREG]

all my trees I planted myself.......... some from seeds. what can I do for ya

 

[ms_lizzie]

Remember, depending on the type of tree, that watering it may be just as important as the soil type, location, drainage etc. Some new trees are water-guzzlers.

 

[Pete S.]

Deciduos trees are best transplanted in the fall, after the leaves have gone, but before the ground freezes. You might want to stake the tree, because, while the freeze/thaw cycle of winter settles the tree nicely into the soil, it might also tend to tip.

Coniferous trees also do well in fall, but since they are shallow rooted, except for the hottest months of the year, anytime for them is a good time. Daily waterings are a must if planted in the spring or summer months.

 

[mountaingoat]

all my trees I planted myself.......... some from seeds. what can I do for ya

That is so cool, sorry I get all crazy about seeds!

 

[GREG]

I think it is so awesome..... means a lot more