Planting Trees in the Fall – 3 Good Reasons

Generally speaking, the traditional planting time for folks in the South is February through mid-March, and folks up North have to wait for the ground to thaw in the spring. These still remain safe and reliable tree planting times. However, with the advent of containerized, air-pruned seedlings planting trees in the fall can be more productive in areas of the south where the ground doesn’t stay frozen.

1. Root Growth

Planting trees in the fall allows the seedling several more months of root growth before spring green-up and the summer swelter hits. More roots in the ground ensures higher survival and better first year growth.

2. Less Watering

Planting trees in the fall will save hours upon hours of dreaded watering the following summer. Once again, the tree will have all winter and spring to get used to its surroundings and put down roots. When the summer heat wave hits, a fall planted seedling can, in most climates, make it through the season without supplemental watering.

3. More Time

Fall tree planting allows more time the following spring to handle other important tree projects such as fertilization, and weed and insect control.

If you are serious about fast growth, lower maintenance, and early and abundant fruit/seed production, give fall tree planting a try. You’ll be glad you did!

~

For more GameKeeper tips , join our weekly newsletter. Your source for information, equipment, know-how, deals and discounts to help you get the most from every hard-earned moment in the field.