Planting Trees in the Spring: What You Need to Start

Last Updated on October 3, 2019 by Ellen Christian

If you’re thinking about planting trees in the spring, check out this post. I’m sharing my experience and what you need to start. I’m in zone 4 in rural Vermont. So, my experiences will be based on where I live. You may need to tailor them slightly for your planting zone.

Planting Trees in the Spring

Planting trees in the spring is one way that you can help keep your property wooded. Each year, trees die or fall down. And, by planting new trees, you can ensure that they are replaced. In the past, we have planted pears, thimbleberries, persimmon, and beach plum. I love that each summer, we can have fresh fruit from our trees.

So, this year, I checked out the Arbor Day Foundation Tree Nursery. They have a huge selection of different trees to choose from. You just enter your zip code in the tree search box or the Hardiness Zone Lookup tool. When your zone appears, you can browse by popular or recommended trees for your area. That way, you know you are getting a tree that is meant for your area. You will receive a bare root tree that is ready to be planted. Learn more about the Arbor Day Foundation Tree Nursery.

Of course, you can also search by the type of tree, your zone, or any number of other factors. That way, you are sure to get a tree that is the best choice for your yard. 

What is the best time to plant a tree?

Your trees can be planted from the time the frost first leaves the ground through late spring. When you buy a tree from the Arbor Day Foundation Tree Nursery, a Planting Guide containing the instructions is included with every order. Learn more about the Arbor Day Foundation Tree Nursery.

How to plant a tree

When you plant a tree, be sure to consider how large and wide the tree will be at full size. Just because the tree is only a few feet tall right now, does not mean it won’t outgrow the space its planted in.

You should dig a hole that seems wider than you need so the roots can grow without crowding. Remove any grass from within a three-foot area. Then, plant the tree just deep enough to barely cover the root collar. It’s very important to allow plenty of room for the roots to grow.

Keep the roots moist while planting. Dry air can damage the roots which will make it more difficult for your tree to grow strong and be healthy. Add in the remaining soil. No need to add fertilizer or other amendments. Make sure you give your tree plenty of water.

After the water has soaked in, add a two-inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree. But, don’t allow the mulch to touch the tree trunk. Mulch will help stimulate the growth of your tree and keep weeds down.

If you’re considering adding a tree or two to your property this spring, I encourage you to check out the Arbor Day Foundation Tree Nursery. They have a huge selection of trees to choose from and everything you need to know to help your tree grow big and strong.

Planting Bare Root Trees

If you are planning on planting trees in the autumn, you might want to consider planting potted trees. Potted trees are more easily recognizable because they are larger and more fully formed. They already have leaves and you’ll be able to recognize your favorites when you receive them. The cooler temperatures allow the trees to establish their roots before the heat of summer.  Don’t worry about planting it too close to wintertime. Trees go dormant in the winter. This allows them to store up energy. It’s safe to plant them up until the ground is frozen solid. Learn more about planting trees in the fall in this article.

Use code OVERWORKEDMOM to save $9 off the shipping cost when you order now. If your cart contains more than $60 worth of merchandise, you will receive free shipping and $10 off your order. Order today.