Can I Plant Trees in Winter?

We are very excited to share with you all this article on winter tree planting. It is a common misconception that it is impossible to plant trees in the winter, but there are many ways to solve this problem! Winter can be a great time to plant a new sapling. Let us help you with that! There are some things you’ll have to consider when deciding on the right time to plant your tree. The weather, your area, and the type of tree can all affect the right time for you to plant your tree.

Do I need to consider anything special when planting winter trees?

When considering whether to plant a tree during the winter. You need to check on your specific area. If the trees in your area still have leaves, you can plant new ones. Planting new trees at any time of year is fine if it isn’t too cold or hot. November and December are good planting times if the season allows. To be sure, take soil temperatures early in the morning for a few days to ensure accuracy. If your soil is 50°F or warmer consistently, it may be safe to plant, depending on the type of tree.

Is winter planting right for every type of tree?

Not every tree is likely to survive a winter planting, so it is essential to find out if your tree can handle the winter season. Deciduous trees should be fine, as long as you plant them early enough in the season. Check your soil temperature to make sure it is not lower than 50°F.

Evergreen trees, like pine or spruce, need a soil temperature of at least 60°F. If they’re planted in too cold of soil, they will likely die.

If you’re unsure if your soil is ready to start planting. Consider contacting an ISA-certified arborist, like TreeNewal. They can help you to assess your soil and answer any questions.

Is my area okay for winter tree planting?

A great way to check if your area is safe for winter planting is by checking out your USDA Hardiness Zone. For most states and zones (including 5, 6, and 7), fall is a great time to add a tree to your yard. Zones 8, 9, and 10 have more time to get plants in the ground and plant into December. The following states have exceptions to fall planting:

• Alabama: Spring and fall are fine, but winter (November to March) is ideal.
• Florida: It’s a good idea to plant in the rainy season, which lasts from May to October. However, you may plant at any time of year.
• Georgia: While late fall to winter is fine, November and December are ideal for you to plant.
• Louisiana: November and December is the best time for you!
• Tennessee: Autumn and early winter will give you the best results.

It’s best to wait till late winter/early spring after the first snowfall or once your ground has frozen before planting trees in your yard. The roots of the young saplings are vulnerable to drying out in the cold and being unable to survive wind, ice, or snow.

Is the weather okay to plant my tree?

Now we have determined that the type of tree and your area are both safe for winter planting. But how does the weather look? Are you expecting a freeze around the time of planting? If yes, then don’t plant your tree. The roots are very vulnerable to drying out in cold weather, and they will not survive if planted right before winter. If you anticipate any extreme winter weather, it’s best to wait until the weather is milder to plant your tree.

How do I plant my tree in the winter?

Once the ground is ready, dig a hole that’s twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of your seedling or sapling. Make sure there are no rocks in the bottom (or anywhere else) where roots may grow.

After you have your soil ready, make sure to water the site well. Then plant your tree deep enough so that the root ball is covered by at least a foot of soil, and it will be able to receive regular watering after being planted for an extended period of time. Make sure not to cover any part of the trunk with dirt as this can suffocate the tree. Consider adding some mulch to your tree as well to help keep the soil warm during the winter.

If you live in a windy area, you may need to stake your tree to prevent it from blowing away or snapping. This will help give your tree enough support until it is able to stand on its own.

How can I make sure my winter-planted tree survives?

How do we keep our beautiful tree alive after we’ve planted it? Since winter trees are planted when colder outside and they’re in dormancy, don’t expect them to take off right away. Make sure you’re watering your tree regularly and check for any signs of pests or diseases that could harm the growth of your new sapling or seedling. Avoid fertilizing until after leaf-out in the spring. Mulch your newly planted tree to help keep the soil warm and moist. Avoid pruning your tree in the winter since this can leave it open to diseases and pests. If you’re still concerned about your tree’s viability in the future, consider consulting with an ISA-certified arborist, like TreeNewal, for help!

If you want more support for your trees or are interested in getting help for your newly planted tree. To keep your trees healthy all year long in Denton, Frisco, Lewisville, and North Texas, call TreeNewal at (817) 349-7754 or send us a message for a free estimate! Call TreeNewal ISA-certified arborists for all your tree care needs.

Don’t forget to check out our blog post on Preventative Care on Trees for the Winter Season for more info on winter tree care.

To learn more about Can I Plant Trees in Winter?, call our Argyle and Southlake-based teams

at tel:(817) 592-6846 or send us a message.

We’re a little different than the average tree services company.

Learn more about TreeNewal’s ISA Certified Arborists!

Our Dallas/Fort Worth-based tree doctors can explain how sustainable tree care services add more value to your bottom line.

Healthy trees, healthy lives.