A Reason for Every Season
Posted
January 4, 2018
Some say winter, others say fall is the best season for planting shrubs. Here’s a breakdown of what to plant and when.
Planting Shrubs by Season
Winter: January through March is a perfect time to plant all bare root plants, such as roses and fruit trees. These plants are dormant during this time of year, so they’ll be ready to rise and shine in spring.
Spring: Right before spring buds start to bloom is a perfect time to plant in most areas of North America. Trees are still dormant until new growth appears.
Summer: Balled-and-burlapped trees can be planted in yards in spring or early summer. You should wait until the heat of summer has passed to plant any other trees or shrubs.
Fall: September through December is the right time to plant in hotter climates of the South and West—without the heat of summer and before the colder weather sets in. Roots grow best when the soil temperature is at least 40 degrees. Then they have the winter months to become established in the ground in time to fully surge come spring.
Other Planting Tips
- Plant a tree grown in a container any time of the year, except when the ground is frozen.
- Trees sap that still flows in late winter—such as birch and sugar maple—should be planted after the flow of sap stops.
- Help protect young thin-bark trees—such as maples and fruit trees—by wrapping the trunk for the first winter or two after planting. You can wrap as early as Thanksgiving, but be sure to remove the wrapping once spring arrives to prevent insect infestations and disease.
- You can also create a barrier fence around the trunk to prevent hungry animals from getting to your newly planted trees.
- Plant trees with fleshy roots—like magnolias—after their leaves have expanded slightly.
- Plants don’t need to be staked when planted in the spring, summer, or fall. Let them move and bend to develop their strength.
- Deeply water newly planted trees and shrubs during the first year after planting. Evergreens need more water in the fall, and all plants need a good drink during the spring growing season.
- Add a two to three inch ring of mulch around the newly planted tree or shrub that reaches as far as the branches. Mulch provides much needed nutrients to the soil and helps prevent weeds.
The right season depends on what you’re planting. No matter what you put in the ground, make sure you have a plan and think about the best place to plant it. Its healthy future depends on you.
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As an avid horticulturist and seasoned enthusiast in the realm of plant cultivation, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise and a profound knowledge of seasonal planting practices. Over the years, I've cultivated a diverse array of plants, from roses to fruit trees, and honed my understanding of the nuanced requirements each species demands during different seasons.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts presented in the article, "A Reason for Every Season," which provides valuable insights into the optimal times for planting shrubs:
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Winter Planting (January through March):
- Ideal for bare root plants like roses and fruit trees.
- Dormant plants during winter are poised to flourish in the upcoming spring.
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Spring Planting:
- Before spring buds bloom, providing a perfect window for planting in most North American regions.
- Trees remain dormant until new growth emerges.
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Summer Planting:
- Suitable for balled-and-burlapped trees in spring or early summer.
- Other trees and shrubs are best planted after the heat of summer has subsided.
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Fall Planting (September through December):
- Optimal for hotter climates in the South and West.
- Allows roots to establish during winter, gearing up for robust growth in spring.
- Best when soil temperature is at least 40 degrees.
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General Planting Tips:
- Container-grown trees can be planted throughout the year, avoiding frozen ground.
- Trees with late winter sap flow, like birch and sugar maple, should be planted after sap flow stops.
- Protect thin-bark trees by wrapping trunks in late fall to prevent winter damage.
- Barriers and fences can deter animals from harming newly planted trees.
- Trees with fleshy roots, such as magnolias, are best planted after leaf expansion.
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Maintenance Tips:
- Newly planted trees and shrubs need deep watering during the first year.
- Evergreens require more water in the fall, while all plants benefit from increased watering in the spring.
- Mulching with a two to three-inch ring around the plant helps provide nutrients and prevent weed growth.
Understanding these concepts ensures successful shrub planting and fosters the healthy growth of your green companions. Remember, a well-thought-out plan and strategic placement are crucial for the flourishing future of your plants.
