Trees put on quite a show this time of year. Why not add to the beauty of seasons to come by planting more! Autumn is an ideal time for planting a tree since the soil is still warm but the air is cool. Here are some useful tips to keep in mind if you want to plant a tree in fall.

Before Breaking Ground

Even though now is a perfect time for planting, there are still some factors to consider before getting started.

1. Hardiness Zone. Not all trees thrive in the same area. Choose the tree type suitable for your environment. Your local nursery should carry native trees, so you’ll know they’re meant to stand up to normal weather conditions.
2. A Tree’s Purpose. Why are you planting this tree? Is it for shade, privacy, fruit, or decor? Different trees have certain qualifications that make it better suited for each situation.
3. The Perfect Spot. Once you have a tree in mind, decide the best place for it. How much sun and space does it need to grow to its fullest potential without becoming a hazard to power lines or your home. Make sure wherever it goes gets good drainage to prevent root rot.

Now that you have a tree and spot in mind, consider the weather. Plan to plant well before the first frost so that the tree has more time to get established before winter.

How to Plant a Tree in Fall

The proper planting technique is just as important and the right tree and location. How you plant your tree sets it up for a crucial time in its development.

1. Amend the soil. Give your tree a healthy start by placing it in nutrient-rich soil. Consider mixing compost with what’s already there for an added boost.
2. Leave space to grow. Dig a hole two to three times wider than the tree’s root ball, but no deeper. This allows just enough space to extend.
3. Loosen the roots. Before you place the ball into the ground, gently spread out the roots to encourage optimal growth.

Once the tree is situated upright, lightly backfill with soil, keeping the root flare just above the surface.

Post Planting Tips

Now that you have your tree in the ground, the regular maintenance begins! Give your tree it’s first round of essentials to help jumpstart the growing process.

1. Watering. Immediately after planting, water thoroughly to eliminate air pockets and help settle the soil around the roots. Then water about once a week to keep the soil moist until the ground freezes.
2. Feeding. Avoid using a fertilizer high in nitrogen, as this promotes more top growth than root development.
3. Mulching. Add a few inches of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture, moderate soil temperature, and prevent weeds. Try not to pile mulch up against the trunk, and this can lead to rot or pest problems.
4. Protecting. Since newly planting trees are more susceptible to damage,  consider using tree guards and stakes to help keep the trunk upright and protect the bark.

Planting a new tree in the fall is the first step in adding more beauty to your landscape. In order to help maintain its good looks and health, it will need regular monitoring, especially during the first year, as it becomes established. For help maintaining trees—whether they’re new or old—contact the tree care specialists at Elite Tree Care today. We can help set your tree up for success so you can both enjoy the season.

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