Fall is the best time to plant most deciduous (leafy) trees. It gives them a head start on spring growth while they concentrate on building a healthy root system over the winter.
As long as the soil is workable, trees can be planted, and in most lower-altitude Colorado locations that means planting time extends well into late fall and even early winter before subsoil freezing becomes an issue.
Bargains Abound in the Fall
In early October, nurseries and garden centers start clearing out their summer inventories. Prices on trees and shrubs are cut by as much as 50-75%, so not only is fall prime planting time, it’s a great time to score big bargains on nursery stock too.
The sooner you shop, the better your selection will be, so shop early before the plants you want are gone and you have to wait until spring comes along with much higher prices.
Plant for Success
The secret for late-season planting is proper preparation. Your nursery or arborist will have information on the right way to plant your trees and shrubs in cold weather. Be sure to follow them carefully, including planting at the right depth, soil preparation, watering, and protective mulching when indicated.
Fall planting is not only the best time to add new trees to your landscape, but it will reward you with healthy, beautiful trees when spring blooming time comes.
If you need help choosing and planting the right trees and shrubs for your landscape, Donovan Arborists offers planting, pruning, and shearing services as well as a complete landscape maintenance package for property in the Denver area.
We’re always happy to give free estimates to homeowners and property managers for any services they may need.