When is the Best Time to Plant A Tree in Virginia?
As a landscape designer, I’m often asked, “When is the best time of year to plant a tree?”
There is a short answer, but not one that is exactly black-and-white: fall is the best time to plant a tree.
5 Reasons Fall Is The Best Time of Year to Plant Trees in Virginia:
1. Dormancy.
With fall foliage, trees enter into dormancy and require much less water and nutrients to maintain vigor.
2. Cool temps.
Those crisp fall mornings and evenings with some warmth during the day greatly reduce the risk of trees drying out while also creating great conditions for root growth.
3. Moisture.
Is fall always wet and raining? No, but we do typically receive substantial rains at some point before the end of the year. A few deep soaking rains or snowstorms, and trees are locked in the ground nicely and ready for the cold winter months.
4. Ease of transport.
Trees and shrubs can be damaged in transport if overly exposed to airflow and sunlight while foliated. As we near the end of October and leaves are dropping, this concern is almost completely eliminated.
5. Energy change.
Water and mineral (xylem) activity slows while sugars begin to get directed downward to the trees’ roots, which is a critical link to all points above. Root growth continues as the leaves begin to fall.
Other Important Factors to Consider Before Planting A Tree
Are You Planting A Container Tree or a Field-Grown Tree (Balled and Burlap)?
Container trees are much easier and faster to transport. They are either being watered by irrigation at a nursery or garden center or being watered by you. The sooner a container tree can be planted in the ground, the sooner it’s getting established to begin growing to its full potential, no matter the season.
On the other hand, a field-grown tree is stressed when harvested from a nursery field and is very vulnerable to extreme temperature and moisture conditions. Dormancy is very important to the success of field grown trees.
Consider Your Water Access & Availability When Deciding On Planting Season
How easy, accessible and enjoyable watering is for you may influence when you want to plant your trees. Do you have a solid well or dependable municipal water? How far away from a hydrant are you planting trees? Is watering a burden and only done out of necessity, or a peaceful task you’ll enjoy? Do you have other plants you’re going to be watering already? If so, you may not need to wait for ideal conditions if you have good water access.
Weather & Seasons Are Unpredictable.
Fall can be stretched and every year is different. Weather in Virginia is often unpredictable and inconsistent year to year. We do consistently have wet periods each year, but the timing is hard to forecast. Winter and spring months are still very ideal for tree planting and have a high success rate. That’s why we said the answer isn’t always black-and-white.
Reserve A Tree or Plant From Your Plant Nursery!
But what if you find the Clark Griswold Christmas tree!? Okay, we aren’t talking Christmas trees, but maybe you found that special tree that made you stand in awe with a twinkle in your eye! Most garden centers or nurseries are willing to reserve or hold trees or plants for short periods of time, so don’t automatically assume you have to wait until fall if most of the above factors are in your favor. Get it while you can!
Article Written By: Trent Shreckhise, Owner/Designer
