As you may know, there are a lot of reasons to be thankful for trees. Trees provide us with a series of benefits. They keep us healthy; reduce violence; provide us with food and medicines; provide sound barriers, windbreaks, and protection from weather; add property value; stimulate the economy; and more.
With Arbor Day coming up, we thought it’d be a good idea to answer the commonly asked question, “when is the best time to plant trees?” as well as explain 5 great benefits of planting more trees.
When is the best time to plant trees?
Generally speaking, the best time to plant trees is in the fall and early spring.
There are several benefits of planting trees in fall and early spring. Generally, your tree’s species and the climate they’re located in (i.e: your geographic location) are the two biggest determining factors when it comes to deciding the best time to plant trees.
Both fall and early spring can be great times to plant trees; especially in the Northern Virginia, MD, and DC Metro area.
Fall (Late August to October):
- Fall’s cooler temperatures and rainfall improve root growth.
- This fall climate generally means less frequent watering on your part.
- The tree will build stronger resistance against environmental stressors.
- Deciduous trees (ex: Maple trees) are best planted in the fall.
Early Spring:
- Similar to fall, the cooler soil conditions support root development.
- Spring rainfall can help you supply water for the new trees (just remember to supply enough water in the upcoming summer!).
- Trees planted in the spring will have more time to develop before winter’s extreme climate.
- Spring can be a good option for you if you have more time to devote to soil and root management. Careful, watchful eyes and proper tree care techniques are especially important in the spring: the tree will need to establish a strong root system and grow leaves and branches, all at the same time.
- Slow-developing trees like birch, dogwood, willow, and magnolia trees, are best planted in the spring.
NOTE: If you’re considering planting an evergreen tree or planting an evergreen privacy screen, either fall or spring will be fine to plant the tree(s). Evergreen trees tend to be more adaptable to seasonal changes, as they don’t go dormant in the winter.
Spring fever is in – which rings especially true for us environmentalists. With nurseries stocking up and Arbor Day around the corner, now would be one of the best times to plant a new trees! In fact, one of our Certified Arborists recently planted a tree with his granddaughter in honor of Arbor Day.
Why Planting Trees Is Important
Now that you know the best time to plant trees, you may be wondering why it is important to plant more trees. While you may know the several benefits of trees, the act of planting more trees is significant on its own.
Below are 5 benefits of planting trees and why you should consider it:
- You’ll help Earth fight climate change. Trees are said to be the lungs of the planet. By planting more trees, you’ll help reduce the amount of greenhouse gases. More trees will absorb and remove the carbon dioxide overfilling our atmosphere, reducing the carbon footprint left behind.
- You’ll be healthier: As you likely know, trees absorb carbon dioxide and then release the oxygen we need to survive; but, did you know trees also filter the air? By filtering the air, trees remove harmful pollutants like nitrogen oxide from the air we breathe. This means, with more trees comes an overall increase in our well-being!
- You’ll be happier: Studies have shown that trees improve overall happiness and decrease the amount of stress, for people of all ages.
- You’ll support nearby wildlife. Many critters depend on trees for food and shelter. Planting more trees means providing more habitats for your favorite animals.
- You’ll improve your urban community. 100+ years ago, ancestors planted trees for us to enjoy and benefit from. One of these benefits is prevention against the creation of urban heat islands – in other words, providing cooling, relaxing shade for buildings and other infrastructure. Today, however, there sadly have been many trees that have been taken down due to urban activities.
By replacing old trees – whether removed by poor health or construction – you’ll not only improve your community’s aesthetics, you’ll also be giving future community members the gift of greenery.
Planting more trees this Arbor Day is an important step in doing the right thing for people and nature – which is what we’re all about.
The Importance Of Spring Tree Care
No matter when or what time of the year you choose to plant your tree, it will need proactive tree care and maintenance for it to reach its fullest potential and live its best life.
- With spring comes the perfect breeding ground for tree fungal diseases. If you’re concerned about your trees, it’s important to take action now – once the fungus is there, there is no going back.
- Looking for ways you can improve your tree’s health this spring? Check out our Spring Tree Care Guide or download it here.
- Alternatively, you can watch the video below to learn the top 6 things you can do for your trees right now.
If you’re out in your yard planting trees, or you become concerned about your existing trees, the best time to reach out is now; our Certified Arborists and tree service experts are happy to help! Simply call us at 703-573-3029 or book an appointment online to get started.
