Although the best time for planting trees is late winter or early spring, many people plant trees in autumn. As we near the end of August, the temperature will begin to cool and our thoughts will focus on preparing our kids for back to school, the seemingly endless parade of holidays and doing last minute yard work before the onslaught of winter. Tree-planting during this time can be tricky, but there are ways to properly do it, so you don’t have to worry about anything going wrong.
Studying Your Land for Tree Planting
In the coming weeks, you’ll most likely find yourself standing on your deck, back porch or in the middle of your yard contemplating what needs to be done next. Whether it’s finding the perfect spot for planting that tree or what spots are in desperate need of weeding, there’s plenty to do. If you are planting trees, keep in mind that you can’t plant them wherever. It’s not a frivolous activity, but rather one of careful planning and consideration.
First, survey the land. Clearly, you don’t want to plant under power lines or telephone poles or any other man-made object that could destroy your trees, especially when a storm occurs. Additionally, if you do plant your tree under power lines, your tree will have to grow around the power lines. This will require constant upkeep on your end, including pruning and maintenance, which may result in an unnatural looking tree.
Be Proactive in Tree Planting When it Comes to Infestation and Disease
An unnatural appearance can lead to health issues and susceptibility to bugs. Those are just some of the things that may happen if you plant your trees in the wrong areas. You need to choose carefully and consider everything. These trees need room for their development. Remember a tree is underground as much as its above the ground! Studying your land can give you good information on how the tree will grow, develop, and avoid infestation or disease.
Benefits of Planting Trees in the Fall Season
You can get a head of the game when planting a tree in the Fall season. Summer brings drought and hot temperatures, so when you plant in the fall, you’re giving your tree an extra growing season. Trees go dormant during the cold winter season, so they shouldn’t require extra care. Young trees can withstand these extreme conditions due to the hibernation growth period.
Planting in the fall gives trees an extra growing season before the stress of summer.
At Cold Stream Farm, this is one of our favorite times of the year. Our bare root trees are ready for planting. Not only that, but we have all of your tree and shrub planting supplies, including bamboo stakes and planting bars!
