Best Time to Plant Trees in Ohio

Thinking about adding some trees to your yard in Ohio? That’s great! Trees are awesome for shade, looks, and the environment. But, like anything else, timing is pretty important if you want them to really take off. We’re talking about the best time to plant trees in Ohio, specifically for those native species that just belong here. For the best time to plant trees in Ohio, aim for fall (late September to early November) or early spring (late March to early May).

Get it right, and your trees will thank you for years to come. Mess it up, and well, it’s just a headache.

Understanding the Best Time to Plant Trees in Ohio

So, you’re thinking about adding some new trees to your yard in Ohio? That’s awesome! Trees are such a great addition, giving us shade, cleaning the air, and just making things look nicer. But, and this is a big ‘but,’ knowing when to plant them is super important if you want them to actually grow well. It’s not just about picking a pretty sapling; timing really matters, especially with Ohio’s weather doing its own thing sometimes.

Getting the timing right gives your new tree the best shot at settling in and growing strong.

Why is this timing thing such a big deal? Well, think about it. A newly planted tree is like a baby – it needs a stable environment to get its roots down and get established. If you plant it when it’s super hot and dry, or when it’s cold, it’s going to have a really tough time. It’s trying to grow roots, but it’s also dealing with all this extreme weather. That’s a lot of stress!

Here’s a quick look at why timing is so key:

• Root Establishment: Giving roots time to grow before harsh weather hits is the main goal.
• Reduced Stress: Planting when temperatures are mild means the tree doesn’t have to work as hard to survive.
• Water Availability: Natural rainfall patterns in certain seasons can help keep the soil moist.
• Long-Term Survival: A well-established tree is much more likely to thrive for years.

Planting a tree at the wrong time can lead to a lot of wasted effort and money. It’s better to wait for the right season than to risk losing your new tree before it even gets a chance to really grow.

We’ll get into the specifics of spring versus fall, and even look at what to do for different types of trees, but for now, just know that paying attention to the calendar is one of the most important steps you can take for successful tree planting in Ohio. It’s all about setting your tree up for success from day one.

Why Timing Matters When Planting Trees in Ohio

So, you’ve picked out a beautiful new tree for your yard. Awesome! But before you grab your shovel, let’s talk about when you actually put it in the ground. It might not seem like a big deal, but planting at the right time can make a huge difference in whether your tree thrives or just… well, struggles.

Think about it. Trees need to get their roots settled before they face the really tough weather. In Ohio, that means dealing with scorching summer heat and bone-chilling winter freezes. If you plant a tree right before a heatwave or a deep freeze, it’s like asking a newborn baby to run a marathon. It’s just too much stress, too soon.

Getting the timing right gives your tree the best shot at developing a strong root system. This is the foundation for everything – how well it grows, how it handles dry spells, and how it survives our sometimes wild Ohio winters.

Here’s a quick rundown of why timing is so important:

• Reduces Stress: Planting when temperatures are mild means the tree doesn’t have to work overtime trying to stay cool or warm while also trying to grow roots.
• Root Establishment: It gives the roots a chance to spread out and anchor the tree before extreme weather hits, whether that’s summer drought or winter frost.
• Water Management: Planting during seasons with more consistent rainfall can mean less reliance on you for watering, especially during that critical first year.
• Better Survival Rates: Simply put, trees planted at the optimal times are much more likely to survive and flourish for years to come.

Planting a tree is an investment. You’re putting in the effort and the money, hoping for shade, beauty, and maybe even a little extra curb appeal down the road. Making sure you plant it during the right season is like giving that investment the best possible start. It’s not just about digging a hole; it’s about setting your tree up for success from day one.

Overview of Ohio’s Climate and Growing Zones

Ohio’s weather can be a bit of a mixed bag, and understanding it is pretty important if you want your new trees to actually take root and thrive. We’ve got four pretty distinct seasons here, which means we experience everything from sweltering summer days to some seriously chilly winter spells. This range really affects when it’s best to get those young trees into the ground.

Generally speaking, Ohio falls into USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 5a through 6b. What this means is that the northern parts of the state tend to be a bit colder than the southern regions. This temperature difference is a big deal when you’re thinking about what kind of trees can survive and how well they’ll do.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

• Northern Ohio: Often experiences colder winters and shorter growing seasons. Zone 5a is common here.
• Central Ohio: A bit of a transition zone, usually falling into Zone 5b or 6a.
• Southern Ohio: Tends to have milder winters and a longer growing season, often in Zone 6a or 6b.

Knowing your specific zone is super helpful because it gives you a good idea of the minimum temperatures your trees will need to handle. It’s not just about the cold, though. The amount of rainfall and the timing of our frosts also play a big role.

The key is to plant when the weather isn’t too extreme, giving the tree’s roots a chance to settle in before facing harsh heat or freezing temperatures. This preparation period is what helps a tree survive its first year and beyond.

For anyone looking to plant native Ohio trees, like those well-suited to the local environment and climate, paying attention to these zones and the general weather patterns is a smart move. It helps ensure you’re picking the right species and planting them at the right time for the best chance of success. You can find more information on specific native Ohio trees that might work for your area.

Best Time to Plant Trees in Ohio: Spring vs Fall

When it comes to planting trees in Ohio, you’ve generally got two main windows: spring and fall. Both have their good points, and honestly, the “best” time can sometimes depend on the specific tree you’re putting in the ground and what your yard is like. But generally speaking, we’re looking at these two seasons.

Fall is often considered the prime time for planting trees in Ohio. Why? Well, think about it. The soil is still holding onto some of that summer warmth, which is great for encouraging roots to spread out. Meanwhile, the air is getting cooler, meaning less stress on the tree itself. It’s like the tree can focus all its energy underground, getting settled, without having to worry about pushing out a bunch of leaves or flowers right away. This gives it a solid head start before winter really kicks in. Plus, those autumn rains can be a real help with watering.

Spring, on the other hand, is the other big player. It’s usually from late March through early May. The ground is thawing, and things are starting to wake up. This is a good time because the moderate temperatures are nice for new growth, and you often get plenty of natural rainfall, which is a bonus. Trees planted in spring get a whole growing season ahead of them. However, a potential downside is that they have less time to really get their roots established before the heat and potential dryness of summer arrive. This means you might need to be a bit more attentive with watering during those first few months.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Fall Planting: Soil is warm, air is cool, less stress on the tree, roots can grow undisturbed through fall and early spring. This is often the preferred method for many species, giving them a strong foundation. You can find more details on fall planting techniques here.
• Spring Planting: Ground is workable, moderate temperatures, good natural moisture, full growing season ahead. This is a solid second choice, especially if you missed the fall window or have specific tree types that prefer it.

The key is to give the tree enough time to establish its root system before extreme weather hits, whether that’s the scorching heat of summer or the deep freeze of winter. Both spring and fall offer this opportunity, but fall often gives a slight edge for root development before the tree needs to actively grow above ground.

So, while both seasons work, many folks lean towards fall for planting new trees in Ohio. It just seems to set them up for success a little better in the long run.

Why Fall Is Often the Best Time to Plant Trees in Ohio

Okay, so you’re thinking about planting a tree in Ohio, and you’re wondering about the best time. While spring gets a lot of attention, fall really shines for a few solid reasons. It gives your new tree a serious advantage before the tough weather hits.

Think about it: the soil is still holding onto that summer warmth, which is like a cozy blanket for new roots. Meanwhile, the air is getting cooler, meaning the tree doesn’t have to work so hard to keep its leaves happy. This combination is pretty sweet because it encourages root growth without pushing the tree to sprout a bunch of new leaves and branches right away. It’s like telling your tree, “Hey, focus on getting settled underground first.”

Here’s a quick rundown of why fall planting is so good:

• Root Development: The warm soil encourages roots to spread out and get established. This is super important for the tree’s long-term health.
• Less Stress: Cooler air temperatures mean less shock for the tree after it’s been moved. It’s not dealing with heat and trying to grow leaves at the same time.
• Natural Watering: Fall often brings more rain, which helps keep the soil moist. This means you might not have to water as much, which is a nice bonus.
• Winter Prep: The tree gets a chance to really dig in before winter. When spring rolls around, it’s already got a good root system ready to go for the growing season.

Planting in the fall allows the tree to focus its energy on building a strong foundation underground. This head start means it’s better prepared to handle the stresses of the following summer and can really take off when the weather warms up in spring.

So, if you’re looking to give your new tree the best possible start, aiming for a fall planting in Ohio is usually a really smart move. It sets them up for success, plain and simple.

When Spring Is the Best Time to Plant Trees in Ohio

While fall often gets the spotlight for tree planting in Ohio, spring definitely has its own set of advantages. If you missed the fall window or have specific tree types in mind, early spring can be a fantastic time to get those new trees settled into your yard. Think late March through early May, right after the ground thaws and before things really start to heat up.

The biggest perk of spring planting is tapping into the natural moisture that comes with the season. Ohio springs usually bring consistent rain, which is exactly what a newly planted tree needs to get its roots going without you having to constantly haul out the watering can. Plus, the soil is starting to warm up, giving those roots a good signal to start growing, while the air is still cool enough that the tree isn’t stressed out by intense heat.

Here’s a quick look at why spring works:

• Gentle Temperatures: The moderate weather helps the tree adjust without the shock of extreme heat or cold.
• Moisture Availability: Spring rains provide a steady supply of water, aiding root establishment.
• Full Growing Season Ahead: The tree has the entire summer and fall to develop its root system before facing another winter.
• Nursery Stock: Nurseries often have their best selection of trees available in the spring.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The main challenge with spring planting is that the tree has less time to build a strong root system before the intense heat and potential dry spells of summer arrive. This means you’ll need to be extra diligent with watering, especially during those first few hot months.

Planting in the spring means your tree has a full growing season ahead to establish itself. This can be particularly beneficial for certain species that might struggle with a fall planting followed by a harsh winter. Just remember, the key is consistent watering as the summer heat builds.

Worst Time to Plant Trees in Ohio and Why to Avoid It

So, when should you absolutely NOT plant a tree in Ohio? Let’s talk about the times that are generally a bad idea, and why.

Planting during the peak of summer or the dead of winter is usually a recipe for disaster. These are the periods when trees are under the most stress, and a newly planted one just can’t handle it.

Summer Planting Woes

Summer in Ohio can get pretty brutal. We’re talking high temperatures, intense sun, and often, not enough rain. If you plant a tree now, it has to deal with:

• Heat Stress: The roots haven’t had a chance to settle in and grow deep yet, making it hard for the tree to pull up enough water to stay cool and hydrated.
• Drought: Even if you water religiously, those long, dry spells can be tough. The soil dries out quickly, and the young roots can’t access enough moisture.
• Transplant Shock: Moving a tree is already a shock. Doing it when it’s already hot and dry just makes things worse.

It’s like asking someone to run a marathon right after they’ve had surgery. They just aren’t ready for that kind of exertion.

Trying to establish a new tree during the hottest, driest part of the year is a losing battle. The tree is already working overtime just to survive the move, and adding extreme heat and potential drought into the mix is asking for trouble. It’s far better to wait for more forgiving conditions.

Winter Planting Pitfalls

Then there’s winter. While it might seem like a quiet time for trees, planting when the ground is frozen or about to freeze solid presents its own set of problems:

• Frozen Ground: You literally can’t dig a hole. Even if you manage, the roots can’t grow or establish in frozen soil.
• Cold Stress: Young roots are very vulnerable to freezing temperatures. They need time to acclimate, and planting them right before a deep freeze is risky.
• Lack of Moisture: While there’s snow, it doesn’t always translate to available water for the roots, especially if the ground is frozen solid.

Basically, you’re putting the tree into a state of suspended animation before it even has a chance to get going. It’s much better to let the soil warm up and give the roots a chance to grow. For the best chance of success, avoid planting between late November and early March, depending on how harsh the winter is. If you’re looking for more information on when to plant, checking out resources on tree planting in Ohio can be helpful.

Best Time to Plant Trees in Ohio by Tree Type

So, you’ve got your eye on a specific tree for your Ohio yard, but when’s the best time to get it in the ground? It turns out, not all trees are created equal when it comes to planting schedules. Different types have slightly different needs, mostly based on how they handle stress and when they like to put on new growth.

Generally, fall is a great all-around time for many trees, but some have specific preferences.

Here’s a quick rundown:

• Deciduous Trees: These are your maples, oaks, and dogwoods – the ones that lose their leaves in the fall. They’re pretty adaptable. You can usually plant them in either spring or fall. Fall planting gives them a head start on root development before winter, while spring planting lets them get right to work when the weather warms up.
• Evergreen Trees: Think pines, spruces, and firs. These guys prefer a bit more care. Late summer to early fall is often best for evergreens. This gives their roots time to settle in before the ground freezes, and they won’t have to deal with the intense heat of summer right after being planted.
• Fruit Trees: If you’re dreaming of apples or cherries, early spring is usually the way to go. They need that whole growing season to establish themselves and get ready for their first fruiting year. Planting them in the fall can be risky if they don’t have enough time to get their roots down before winter hits hard.
• Oak Trees: These can be a bit particular. Many arborists suggest planting oaks in early spring. They have a strong taproot, and giving it the entire growing season to establish seems to make a big difference in their long-term success.

Planting the right tree at the right time is like giving it a superpower from day one. It helps the roots get established without the shock of extreme heat or cold, making it much more likely to thrive for years to come.

It’s always a good idea to check the specific recommendations for the tree species you’re interested in. Sometimes, even within these general categories, there can be slight variations in what works best for your particular corner of Ohio.

How Soil Conditions Affect the Best Time to Plant Trees in Ohio

You know, when you’re thinking about planting a tree in Ohio, it’s not just about the weather outside. What’s happening under the ground, in the soil, matters a whole lot too. It’s like trying to build a house – you need a solid foundation, right? The same goes for trees.

The soil needs to be workable and ready to welcome those new roots. If it’s too wet and soggy, or bone dry and hard as a rock, it’s going to be tough for a young tree to get settled. Think about it: you wouldn’t want to try digging a big hole in concrete, would you? Or trying to plant something in a swamp.

Here’s a quick rundown of what soil conditions can mean for your planting timing:

• Moisture Levels: Ideally, the soil should be moist but not waterlogged. This is usually the case in spring and fall after good rain, but before any hard freezes or intense summer heat dries things out.
• Soil Temperature: Roots are more active when the soil is warm, but not hot. This is why fall planting can be great – the soil is still warm from summer, but the air is cool, giving roots a chance to grow without stressing the leaves.
• Compaction: If your soil is really compacted, it’s hard for roots to spread and for water to drain. You might need to do some soil amendment before planting, which takes time and might influence when you can actually get the tree in the ground.

Sometimes, you might have soil that drains really poorly, especially after a lot of rain. If you plant a tree in that kind of soil when it’s already saturated, the roots can basically drown. It’s better to wait for the soil to dry out a bit, even if it means delaying planting by a week or two. A little patience here can save your tree later on.

So, before you grab your shovel, give your soil a quick check. Is it easy to dig? Does it feel too wet or too dry? Answering these questions will help you pick the absolute best moment to get that tree into the ground so it has the best shot at thriving.

Month-by-Month Planting Calendar for Ohio

Alright, so you’re ready to get some trees in the ground here in Ohio. Knowing the best time to do it can make a huge difference in whether they take off or just sort of… exist. While fall and spring are generally the sweet spots, breaking it down by month can help you zero in on the perfect window.

Generally, late September through mid-November is prime time for planting in Ohio. This gives roots a chance to settle in before the ground freezes solid, and they can even keep growing a bit when the soil is warmer than the air. Then, they’re ready to hit the ground running come spring.

Here’s a rough guide to help you plan:

• March: Early spring is starting. If the ground isn’t frozen and it’s not too muddy, you can start planting. This is good for trees that might not do as well with fall planting. Just be ready to water if things dry out.
• April: This is a really solid month for spring planting. The soil is warming up, and there’s usually decent rainfall. Most bare-root trees are still available, and container-grown ones are really starting to wake up.
• May: You can still plant in May, but you’ll need to be more diligent about watering. The summer heat can stress young trees, so getting them established quickly is key.
• June – August: Honestly, try to avoid planting during these hot summer months if you can. It’s tough on the trees, and you’ll be watering constantly.
• September: Fall planting officially kicks off! The soil is still warm, and the air is cooling down. This is a fantastic time for root development.
• October: This is arguably the best month for planting in Ohio. The weather is usually perfect – cool, moist, and the trees are starting to go dormant, meaning they can focus all their energy on their roots.
• November: You can still plant in early to mid-November, especially if you have a milder fall. Just make sure you give the roots at least a few weeks to establish before a hard freeze.
• December – February: Unless you have a very mild winter and the ground is workable, it’s best to hold off. The ground is likely frozen, and the trees are fully dormant.

Remember, the goal is to give your new tree enough time to grow new roots before the extreme weather hits. For fall planting, that means before the ground freezes. For spring planting, it means before the summer heat and drought set in. Paying attention to the weather forecast and the specific needs of your tree species will always lead to better results.

Quick Table for Planting Windows:

Season	Best Months	Notes
Spring	Late March – May	Good for most trees, requires diligent watering as temps rise.
Summer	Avoid if possible	High stress for new trees requires constant watering.
Fall	Late September – Mid-November	Often ideal, allowing root establishment before winter.
Winter	Avoid	Ground likely frozen, trees fully dormant.

Preparing for Planting During the Best Time to Plant Trees in Ohio

So, you’ve figured out the best window to get those trees in the ground in Ohio – awesome! But just showing up with a tree and a shovel isn’t quite enough. You gotta do a little prep work beforehand to give your new woody friends the best shot at settling in.

First off, think about the spot. Is it going to get enough sun? Is it too close to a building or other plants? Give it some space to grow, seriously. You don’t want them crowding each other out later.

Then there’s the soil. It’s not just dirt, you know. You might want to loosen it up a bit where you’re going to dig. If your soil is super clay-heavy or drains like a sieve, mixing in some compost or other organic stuff can really help. It’s like giving them a comfy bed to start in.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to get ready:

• Clear the area: Get rid of any grass, weeds, or rocks where the tree will go. A good 3-foot circle around the planting spot is usually a good idea.
• Gather your tools: You’ll need a shovel (a sturdy one!), a watering can or hose, mulch, and maybe some stakes if you think the tree needs extra support.
• Know your tree: Make sure you know how big it’s going to get and what kind of conditions it likes. This helps you pick the right spot and prepare the soil correctly.

Don’t forget to call 811 before you dig. It’s a free service to mark underground utility lines, and nobody wants to hit a gas line or something worse. It’s a simple step that can prevent a lot of headaches.

And if you’re planting a bare-root tree, you might need to soak its roots for a few hours before you plant. Container-grown trees usually just need a good watering. It’s all about making sure they’re hydrated and ready to go when they hit the soil.

After-Planting Care Tips for Ohio’s Climate

So, you’ve gotten your tree in the ground at the perfect time – nice job! But that’s really just the beginning, isn’t it? Now comes the part where you help it settle in and actually grow. For trees planted in Ohio, paying attention to the weather is key.

Consistent watering is probably the most important thing you’ll do in these first few years. Young trees, especially, need a steady supply of moisture to get their roots going strong. You’ll want to check the soil pretty regularly. If it feels dry a few inches down, it’s time to water. Don’t just give it a quick sprinkle, though; try to water deeply so it reaches those developing roots. This might mean watering once a week, or more if it’s super dry and hot.

Here’s a quick rundown of what to focus on:

• Watering: Aim for deep watering, especially during dry spells. Check the soil moisture often.
• Mulching: Spread a layer of mulch around the base, but keep it a little away from the trunk itself. This helps keep the soil moist and keeps weeds from stealing water and nutrients.
• Monitoring: Keep an eye out for any signs of trouble, like weird spots on leaves or bugs munching away. Catching problems early makes them way easier to deal with.

Fertilizing can help, too, but don’t go overboard. A balanced fertilizer in the spring can give it a good boost. Just remember, the goal is to help the tree establish itself, not to force it to grow too fast. For native Ohio trees, this kind of patient care really pays off, helping them adapt well to the local environment.

Think of it like this: you wouldn’t expect a baby to run a marathon on day one, right? Trees are kind of the same. They need time and the right conditions to build up their strength, especially when they’re new to their spot. Giving them that consistent care, particularly with water, is like giving them the best possible start.

If you’re planting something like an oak, which has a big taproot, giving it that consistent moisture early on is super important for its long-term success. It’s all about setting it up for a healthy life in your yard or landscape. You can find some great native options for your area to get started with native Ohio trees.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Planting Trees in Ohio

Alright, so you’re ready to get some trees in the ground here in Ohio. That’s awesome! But before you grab your shovel, let’s chat about a few things that can really mess things up. Nobody wants to put in all that work only to have their new tree struggle, right?

One of the biggest oopsies people make is planting the tree too deeply. Seriously, it’s a common one. The top of the root ball should be level with or even slightly above the surrounding soil. If you bury the trunk, it can rot, and the tree just won’t be happy. Always check where the root flare is before you start backfilling.

Another mistake? Not digging the hole wide enough. You want to dig it at least two to three times wider than the root ball. This gives the roots room to spread out into the soil, which is super important for them to get established. Think of it like giving them a nice, open space to explore, not a cramped little box.

Here are a few more things to watch out for:

• Wrong Spot, Wrong Tree: Planting a shade-loving tree in full sun, or a sun-worshipper in deep shade. Do your homework on what each tree needs.
• Over- or Under-Watering: Especially in that first year, it’s a delicate balance. Too much water can drown the roots, and too little means they dry out. Keep an eye on the soil moisture.
• Forgetting About Mulch: A good layer of mulch helps keep moisture in and weeds down, but don’t pile it right up against the trunk. Leave a little breathing room.
• Planting at the Wrong Time: We’ve talked about this, but trying to plant in the dead of summer or when the ground is frozen solid is just asking for trouble.

Sometimes, people get so excited about planting that they forget to consider the mature size of the tree. You don’t want a giant oak growing into your house or power lines in ten years. Always think about the long game and give your tree plenty of space to grow into.

And hey, don’t forget to remove any burlap or wire cages from the root ball unless they’re specifically designed to break down. Those can really restrict root growth if left on.

Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Time to Plant Trees in Ohio

So, we’ve talked a lot about when to get those trees in the ground here in Ohio. It really comes down to giving your new tree the best shot at settling in before things get too wild with the weather. Fall is generally your best bet, giving roots a head start before winter. But spring isn’t a lost cause, especially if you’re prepared to give it a bit more attention through that first hot summer.

Think about it this way:

• Fall Planting: Soil is still warm, air is cool. Roots can grow without the tree needing to push out leaves. It’s like a cozy setup for root development.
• Spring Planting: You get to see the tree wake up, but you’ll likely need to water more consistently as summer heat approaches.
• Avoid Summer/Winter: These are tough times. Summer heat stresses young roots, and winter freezes can be brutal. It’s just asking for trouble.

Ultimately, the goal is to minimize stress on your new tree. By planting when temperatures are moderate, and the tree isn’t actively trying to grow a lot of leaves or flowers, you’re setting it up for success. This means less worry about watering and a better chance of survival.

Don’t forget that the type of tree matters too. Evergreens might have slightly different needs than your typical maple or oak. And, of course, how you prepare the soil and care for the tree after planting plays a huge role, no matter the season. Taking these steps helps make sure your tree doesn’t just survive, but actually thrives for years to come.

So, when is the perfect time to plant trees in Ohio? It really depends on the type of tree, but generally, spring and fall are your best bets. These cooler, wetter seasons give young trees a great start. Don’t wait too long to get your planting done! Visit our website to learn more about the best planting times and get expert advice for your Ohio trees.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the absolute best time to plant a tree in Ohio?

For most trees in Ohio, fall is the top choice. Planting between late September and early November lets the roots grow strong in the still-warm soil before winter hits. Spring, from late March to early May, is the next best option, giving trees a chance to settle before summer heat.

Why is fall considered better for planting trees in Ohio?

Fall is great because the soil is warm, helping roots spread out. The cooler air means the tree doesn’t have to work as hard to keep leaves alive, so it can focus all its energy on growing roots. This gives it a head start for the next spring.

Can I plant trees in the spring in Ohio?

Yes, spring is a good time too, especially from late March to early May. The weather is usually mild, and there’s often enough rain. Just be aware that spring-planted trees have less time to grow roots before the hot summer arrives, so they might need a bit more attention.

What’s the worst time to plant a tree in Ohio?

You should try to avoid planting trees during the hottest part of summer or when the ground is frozen in winter. Extreme heat stresses young trees, and frozen ground makes it impossible for roots to grow or even for you to dig a hole.

Do different types of trees have different planting times?

Yes, they do! Most trees that lose their leaves (deciduous) are pretty flexible. Evergreens, like pines, often do better if planted in late summer or early fall. Some trees, like oaks, prefer early spring planting.

How important is soil temperature for planting trees?

Soil temperature is really important! You want the soil to be warm enough for roots to grow, but not so hot that it stresses the tree. Fall planting takes advantage of the lingering warmth from summer, while spring planting uses the gradual warming after winter.

Should I worry about watering new trees?

Absolutely. Newly planted trees need consistent watering, especially during their first year or two. Spring rains can help, but you’ll likely need to water them deeply once a week, particularly if it’s dry, until their roots are well-established.

What are native trees, and why should I plant them in Ohio?

Native trees are trees that naturally grow in Ohio. They are usually the best choice because they are already used to the climate and soil here, need less care, and provide important food and homes for local wildlife like birds and insects.