Planting Trees in Fall: Tips and How-tos

Autumn is the perfect season to plant new trees. Planting trees in early fall gives young trees a chance to establish a healthy root system while temperatures are mild. See our tips for planting trees in the fall.

How to Plant Nursery Balled and Burlapped Trees

1. Dig a saucer-shaped hole measuring five times the diameter and the same height as the root ball. The root ball should sit at ground level when placed in the hole. Dig the hole sides at an angle, so the sides slope inward. Measure the hole to make sure it is the proper width and depth.
2. Place the tree in the center of the hole. If you need to adjust the position, move the tree by grabbing the root ball – not the trunk.
3. Use wire cutters to remove the wire covering that encases the root ball. Use a utility knife to remove any burlap fabric or twine.
4. Check that the trunk is standing vertical and straight in the hole.
5. Shovel and pack soil around the root ball. Be sure to eliminate air pockets. Keep adding soil until the level reaches just below the root collar.
6. Using a garden rake, dig a shallow water-holding area around the perimeter of the trunk.
7. Water the tree thoroughly with the garden hose.
8. Apply natural mulch around the trunk.  Be sure to leave a 12-inch space around the trunk without mulch, as mulch resting against the trunk may cause root decay. Apply mulch to a maximum 4-inch depth.

When is it too late to plant a new tree?

September through November is the best time for tree planting because it allows sufficient time for new roots to grow before the soil freezes. If you plant a tree too late, it can affect its overall health. The soil will stay warm for a few hours in the evening, which will encourage root growth. Also, fall-planted trees will be better able to withstand summer heat and drought next season.

Tips on Watering a New Tree

A newly planted tree will require more frequent watering than established trees. Water newly planted trees immediately after planting at the times listed below:

• 1 to 2 weeks after planting – water the tree daily
• 3 to 12 weeks after planting– water every other day or every three days
• After 12 weeks – water once a week until roots are established

How much water does my new tree need?

The answer will depend on the width of the trunk (stem caliper).

As a rule, apply 1 to 1 1/2 gallons of water per 1-inch of trunk width.

• 1-inch trunk diameter – 1 to 1.5 gallons
• 2-inch trunk diameter – 2 to 3 gallons
• 3-inch trunk diameter – 3 to 4.5 gallons
• 4-inch trunk diameter – 4 to 6 gallons
• 5-inch trunk diameter – 5 to 7.5 gallons

How should I water a newly planted tree?

1. Form a circular ‘hill’ of soil around the trunk, 3 to 4 inches high, at the edge of the root ball.
2. With a garden hose set on low, slowly add water inside the circle until the reservoir is filled. Moisture will gradually move down and around the root ball.
3. Keep the soil inside the reservoir moist to encourage healthy root growth.
4. Increase the water volume as new tree roots grow. As new tree roots spread, expand the watering area.

When should I fertilize a newly planted tree?

Fertilizing a newly established tree will help it withstand pests, disease, and environmental stresses.

Lightly fertilize your new tree after the first growing season. Fertilize young trees once a year to promote healthy growth.

Apply fertilizer over the whole root area. For most tree species, most of the roots lie approximately 18 inches below the soil surface. The root system will extend 1.5 to 2 times past the diameter of the canopy.

Apply fertilizer on top of the soil in an area 1.5 times the width of branch spread.

If turfgrass surrounds the tree, the fertilizer will find its way down to tree roots.

Where should I plant a tree?

Siting a new tree requires some thought because new roots will quickly grow and spread. It’s best to plant your tree far from your home or other structures. Keep in mind the mature size of the tree and the location of your utilities (overhead, ground level, and below ground) before you dig. Keep these potential problem areas in mind:

• Overhead power lines
• Planting near your home foundation
• Septic tanks and leach fields
• Constantly wet areas
• Underground utility lines or pipes
• Automatic watering systems
• Sidewalks and driveways

Other considerations:

• Note where your property lines are located to ensure your new tree, when mature, will not grow into your neighbor’s yard.
• Consider where your vegetable plot or garden beds are located. Will a large tree block needed sunlight?

The cooler air and milder temperatures of fall make it an excellent time to plant a tree. Remember to water your tree regularly, and you’ll be rewarded with a healthy tree for years to come.