Fall is a great time to plant new trees in your landscape. With cooling temperatures and increased rain, there is less drying out of newly transplanted trees. This increases the likelihood of tree survival. Root growth increases in the fall, so tree stability is improved, and more water and nutrients can be absorbed to prepare for next spring’s growth spurt.
Be aware, though, that depending on your zone, certain trees including some maple, birch, beech and dogwood species are considered ‘fall planting hazards.’ These trees can more easily be damaged by cold winter temperatures and should not be planted now so be sure to research what works in your area.
New transplants should be mulched with wood chips or other organic material to insulate the soil and maintain soil moisture levels. Mulch should be applied from just off the trunk to the outer dripline whenever possible. If there is dry weather, irrigate the root zone deeply, but do not apply water directly to the trunk.
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