Fall Transplanting

You’ve heard that fall the best time of the year to plant, but isn’t planting… transplanting???? 

Trees and shrubs can be planted year-round, but fall is the very best time. I’ve always been taught that transplanting should only happen within the months that end in R:  September, October, November and December. While those are good target months, it is based on the weather.  This past month (September) the temperatures were still well into the 90s and would have been too stressful on your tree or shrub.

Cool air and warm soil temperatures are the perfect combination for establishment. The cooler air is kind to plants and especially to ones that have just lost a major portion of their roots from being dug up. In addition, soil temperatures are still warm, creating an excellent environment for the production of new root growth.

Another benefit to fall transplanting is that most plants and trees are entering a period of dormancy. Rather than continuing to transfer energy into new foliage and aboveground growth, plants are now are transferring energy into their roots and storing nutrients and resources for the cool months ahead.

By spring, the result should be a well-established root system and a plant that can handle the upcoming demands of summer. Here are a few additional tips to ensure the success of all your fall transplants.