Tree Planting Tips: How And When To Plant Trees


Knowing how and when to plant trees is crucial to their success. Let's look at the best time to plant trees and how to plant them correctly. Keep reading for some tree planting tips. Trees are typically sold in containers, burlap sacks, or as bare roots. This is an important consideration when planting them.
- Trees in containers should be carefully removed and inspected prior to planting. Check to ensure the roots are not rootbound and gently spread the roots apart.
- Burlap-wrapped trees should be carefully unwrapped, removing the burlap completely and gently separating the roots prior to planting.
- Bare root trees have no soil surrounding the roots as those in containers or burlap.
How to Plant Trees
Trees do not require deep planting. On average, holes should be about two or three times as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower. It's also a good idea to roughen up the sides and bottom of the hole to make it easier for the tree's roots to penetrate the soil. Place the tree in the hole and take a step back to ensure it is not leaning before backfilling with soil. Since bare root trees cannot stand without help, it may help to create a mound of soil in the center of the hole. Gently situate the tree on top and allow the roots to hang down. If the soil is difficult to work with, it can be amended with compost or well-rotted manure, which will also give the tree a healthy boost of fertilizer. Fill in around the tree only up to the root crown. Never leave any tree roots showing, as they will quickly dry up. Tamp gently as you go but try not to compress too hard; otherwise, it will become more difficult for water to reach the roots. If necessary, you may need to stake the tree in place temporarily until the roots take hold. Water the tree thoroughly and cover the area with 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm.) of mulch, staying a couple of inches (5 cm.) shy of the trunk all around.
Best Time to Plant Trees
Climate is an important factor to consider when determining the best time of year to plant trees, as seasonal weather conditions often determine the appropriate planting time. Regardless of location, trees need adequate time to root, especially in areas with hot, dry summers. For this reason, in most areas, fall is the best time of the year to plant trees. In some instances, however, the tree type may also determine the best time of the year to plant trees.
Instructions for Planting Tree Seedlings
When it comes to instructions for planting tree seedlings, keep in mind that tree seedlings should be treated differently than grown trees. The best time to plant trees is not the same as with seedlings. Tree seedlings should only be planted while dormant, usually between December and March in most places. Make sure the roots are fibrous and moist. Dig a hole just large enough to accommodate the roots. Hold in place, with roots straight down, and backfill with soil just to the root collar. Tamp gently to prevent air pockets from forming. Water and mulch.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our most popular eBook "How to Grow Delicious Tomatoes."

Nikki Tilley has been gardening for nearly three decades. The former Senior Editor and Archivist of Gardening Know How, Nikki has also authored six gardening books.
-
15 Garden Trends To Avoid in 2024: Experts Warn Against These Outdated Designs
Garden trends come and go. We asked gardening experts to share the outdated trends that should be retired – and what you can do instead.
By Melanie Griffiths Last updated
-
How To Overwinter Ollas For Years Of Use: Get More From Irrigation Pots
If you overwinter ollas properly, you'll keep these unique watering pots from cracking. Here's how to protect them in erratic winter temperatures so they last longer.
By Mary Ellen Ellis Published
-
Best Trees For Carbon Sequestration And Climate Change
Let’s keep planting trees. They are our best bet for capturing carbon and may help with our global warming issues.
By Teo Spengler Published
-
6 Invasive Trees You Should Never Plant In Your Yard
What are some invasive trees you should never plant in your yard? Click here to find out.
By Teo Spengler Published
-
How Close Can You Plant A Tree To A Stump?
Looking to plant new trees near old stumps or where stumps have been removed? Click here to learn how.
By Teo Spengler Published
-
Messiest Trees That Drop Debris Everywhere
Want to know which trees will create the biggest messes in your home landscape? Click here to find out.
By Amy Grant Published
-
How To Get Rid Of Tree Sprouts In The Yard From Nearby Trees
Learn the simple way to keep pesky tree seedlings in your lawn from becoming saplings.
By Teo Spengler Published
-
7 Common Tree Care Mistakes That Kill Trees
Are you accidentally killing your tree? It's easier than you think, if you're committing one of these common mistakes. Click here for more.
By Teo Spengler Last updated
-
How To Tell How Old A Tree Is
Ever wondered how to calculate the age of a tree? Click here to learn all about it.
By Teo Spengler Last updated
-
When To Remove Tree Stakes From Saplings
A newly planted tree may grow strong when it’s staked, but don’t forget to remove the stakes when it’s stable.
By Teo Spengler Published