Fall Is the Best Time to Plant a New Tree—Here's How to Do It the Right Way (2024)

Anyone can plant a tree, but if you want that tree to thrive for decades, you need to learn how to plant a tree properly. There's an old saying in gardening that the key to growing a great plant is to put a 50-cent specimen in a $5 hole. It's no lie. Follow these tips—straight from the Better Homes and Gardens Test Garden—to plant a tree that will add beauty and value to your home for years to come.

How to Time Your Tree Planting

To get your new tree off to a good start, you'll need to dig the right size hole. But before you break out the shovel, you'll want to pinpoint the best time to start digging. Fall is often considered the best time to plant a tree. That's because hot summer temperatures can stress new plants—especially if they don't get much rain. Plant in autumn to give your tree extra time to establish itself before warm weather arrives again the following year. Over the winter, your tree will focus on strong root growth instead of producing branches and foliage.

That said, if your area is known for harsh, early winters, there's value in waiting until spring—especially with some flowering deciduous trees like magnolia, flowering cherry, and dogwood. That's because if you plant in the fall and the ground freezes before your young tree can take root, your tree may not survive the chill. Plant in spring to avoid the threat of early frost, just be prepared to water frequently because your tree will spend energy growing both roots and leaves.

How to Dig a Hole for a Tree

First, prepare a hole two to three times as wide as the root ball of your tree. Dig down to about the depth of the root ball so that when it's resting on the bottom of the hole, the tree is at the same level with the ground as it was in its container. Handle the root ball carefully to keep it intact while you place it in the hole. Once it's in, turn it so the best side of the tree is facing the direction you want. With burlapped root balls, cut the twine and remove the burlap (or at least push it to the bottom of the hole).

Backfill Soil into the Hole

After your tree is set, backfill the hole around the roots with your displaced soil. Pack it evenly around the root ball and lightly pack down the soil as you go. As you work, frequently check the trunk to ensure that it's straight. Use any leftover soil as a berm to create a watering well.

You may have heard that you should amend backfill with organic matter like compost, but this is an older practice. Several studies have shown that it produces little benefit (as long as the existing soil is of reasonable quality), so many experts no longer recommend it. Similarly, fertilizer doesn't offer many benefits at planting time, and can even be harmful. Wait until the following year, then provide a moderate dose of fertilizer. The most important factor, by far, is loose soil that new roots can easily grow into. That's why a wide planting hole is so vital.

Install Tree Stakes

If your tree is exposed to high winds or is planted in a high-traffic area, you may need to stake the tree to stabilize it. Most young trees don't require staking, but if yours does, drive the stake into the ground underneath and through the root ball. The stake should be tied loosely to the trunk. Don't lash it so tight that the trunk can't flex in the wind. Large trees may need two or three stakes placed several feet from the trunk. After six months, the roots should be stable enough to hold your tree in place. If so, remove all stakes to allow the tree to continue growing naturally.

Watering a Newly Planted Tree

Water the tree right after planting and keep the soil around it moist for several weeks afterward. By that point, the roots will have begun to grow out into the surrounding soil, and you can begin to gradually reduce the frequency of watering. A 3-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree (but not touching the trunk) will keep weeds out and reduce water loss.

How Much is My Tree Worth?

Every tree you plant in your yard, whether deciduous or evergreen, adds enjoyment not to mention benefits for local wildlife and the environment in general. But trees also add financial value to your property, which makes them worth the initial investment of money and labor. There are four factors to consider in determining a tree's value:

• Size: This includes the tree's height, width, and trunk girth. For example, the value of a mature oak on an established property can exceed $20,000.
• Species: Trees are valued for their hardiness, adaptability, sturdiness, attractiveness, and low-maintenance care requirements. The most highly valued trees today are those that provide shade, ornamentation (such as spring flowers or fall color), and drought tolerance. A local arborist and county extension service can identify the best and most valuable trees for your landscape.
• Condition: Consult an arborist who can determine a tree's condition by inspecting its trunk, branches, bark, buds, and roots.
• Location: A tree that stands alone, shades a house, or flanks a street may carry more value.

Trees add beauty and wildlife benefits (not to mention value) to property. After all, trees give us shade and cool places to gather. They offer birds and small wildlife nourishment and shelter. Trees even soak up carbon dioxide and release oxygen in exchange—which makes them a valuable addition wherever space allows. With proper tree-planting skills, you'll ensure the success of your trees for decades to come. And once you know the basics of how to plant a tree, you can apply those techniques to different varieties and build a mini forest of your own.