Every homeowner loves the sight and feel of lush green trees and shrubs beautifying their front lawn or backyard. Most people still consider spring to be the traditional planting time, but several landscapers and arborists differ from the prevalent viewpoint and find fall better for planting trees. The season offers ideal conditions that are optimal for the growth of trees. Planting new trees during fall (mid-August to mid-November) offers several advantages that will leave you with a lush green garden with flourishing trees by spring.
Here are some of the reasons that make fall a safe and ideal season to plant trees:
Low transpiration
During transpiration, the trees eliminate excess water absorbed from the soil through leaves, flowers, and stems. The trees lose more water in summers due to high temperatures (90%-95%). Colder temperatures during fall cause low transpiration, allowing the plants to preserve more moisture to aid growth.
Temperature
Extreme summer heat and long bright days can be stressful for new plants, making it challenging for them to grow. Fall with its moderately cold temperatures and shorter days presents the perfect environment for new tree’s growth. Cooler temperatures offer the ideal time to plant trees that are on the more heat-sensitive side, too.
Warm soil
The soil is warm during fall due to the recently concluded summers, allowing new plants to develop stronger roots before the frost. Though the growth, energy consumption, and metabolism of trees and shrubs are temporarily stopped as they are in the dormant stage during fall, they continue to develop roots. The roots will utilize the period to store nutrients, and develop strong roots to thrive during the hot temperatures. Plant the trees at least six weeks before the frost to facilitate growth.
Less watering
The best benefit of trees planted during fall is the gentle and easily absorbable rainfall naturally watering the newly planted trees. Also, due to shorter days and cold weather, the plants do not lose water as quickly as they do in summers.
Low threat of pests and diseases
There are fewer pests and leaves eating insects during fall when compared to spring. It means reduced stress for trees and fewer maintenance requirements.
No heat damage
Hot weather can wreak havoc on newly planted trees. They can burn the leaves and damage the plants. Meanwhile, moderate fall temperature is not that detrimental to trees.
Planting trees in fall also gives time to handle essential tree projects like weed control and fertilization. Some of the trees that can easily be planted during fall include alder, honey locust, elm, catalpa, maple, pines, hackberry, sycamore, spruces, and most deciduous trees.
It is best to plant trees in fall as they get ample time to establish the roots to get through the harsh temperatures during summers, and require less maintenance. Adequate planning and placement are essential to ensure the tree’s proper growth. Also, remember that the newly planted trees will need care and upkeep, irrespective of the time of the year you plant them.
Hire a tree service company for regular care and upkeep of the trees. They can evaluate the garden and advise on the right type of trees that can be planted during the fall to enhance the landscape.
Chuck’s Tree Service offers tree trimming and pruning, palm tree trimming, and tree removal, in Pasco, Hernando and Pinellas Counties. 24/7 emergency service. Call us today at 352-747-8182!
