Can you plant trees in the fall? The last thing you want is to cut your new specimen’s life short.
As the go-to tree services in Edmond, OK, we at Arbor Image Tree Care have helped many people successfully introduce various flora to their yards and gardens. Keep reading to learn more.
The Advantages of an Autumn Planting
People assume spring is the ideal planting season because they associate the period with growth and renewal. Fall is just as good, if not better, for your saplings. Here’s why.
Ideal Soil Conditions
Why wait for the ground to thaw after a long Edmond winter? It retains enough warmth from the summer to help the root system establish.
Roots keep growing as long as the soil is moist and its temperature stays above 45°F. A layer of mulch should help extend the root growth period well beyond the first snowfall.
Warm soil is also much more workable. You won’t have to struggle with hard, frozen ground.
Less Watering Frequency
Young trees need plenty of moisture to grow strong roots. Fall’s cooler weather and increased rainfall help keep the soil damp for longer. Your sapling gets ample hydration without constant effort on your part.
Stick to your watering schedule right until the ground starts to freeze. You may need to pick up the slack during a rare autumn dry spell.
Minimized Transplant Shock
Can you plant trees in the fall even with the chillier weather? It could actually work in your favor.
Trees introduced during spring have to grow new roots and leaves at the same time. Their limited energy reserves get stretched thin. The sweltering heat of the coming summer puts extra stress because they likely haven’t established yet.
A sapling will enjoy the milder autumn weather as it focuses all its efforts on growing its root system. There’s no pressure to develop foliage right away.
What To Consider for Your Edmond Tree Planting Project
Timing is important, yes, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Don’t forget about these crucial details:
- Tree species selection: Always get a tree with excellent Edmond climate adaptation, or the next few years will become an uphill battle. Native species like eastern redbuds and mulberries are usually a safe bet.
- Location matters: Two parts of the same yard can have widely different sunlight exposure and soil drainage conditions. Factor in the impact of a mature tree on surrounding flora or structures, too.
- Prepare the dig site: Make a hole about twice the root ball’s diameter and deep enough for the tree to stand at ground level. You can set it a little higher for better drainage.
Dependable Tree Specialists in Edmond, OK
Can you plant trees in the fall? Absolutely, but the process can feel challenging for the average gardener. Leave it to Arbor Image Tree Care instead.
Dial (405) 815-7959 now to request assistance — or read more of our blog if you need help dealing with a fallen tree on a roadway.