Can You Plant Trees in Autumn? Why It’s One of the Best Times to Plant
If you’re thinking about adding a new tree to your garden, you might assume spring is the best time to get planting.
But autumn can actually be one of the best times of year to plant a tree in the UK.
The soil is usually still relatively warm from summer, while cooler temperatures and increased rainfall mean newly planted trees are under less pressure than they would be during hot, dry weather.
Plant at the right time and your new tree can begin establishing its roots before winter, giving it a head start when growth begins again in spring.
Why is autumn a good time to plant trees?
When we think about trees growing, we tend to focus on what’s happening above ground.
But establishing a healthy root system is just as important.
During autumn, deciduous trees begin moving towards dormancy and their above-ground growth slows. At the same time, the soil can remain warm enough for root development to continue.
There’s another big advantage: water.
Newly planted trees need regular watering while they establish. Autumn's cooler, wetter conditions can reduce the stress caused by heat and dry soil, although newly planted trees should still be monitored and watered when necessary.
When in autumn should you plant?
Generally, trees can be planted from autumn into winter, provided the ground isn't frozen or waterlogged.
October and November can therefore be excellent months for planting.
Container-grown trees offer more flexibility and can technically be planted at various times of year, provided conditions are suitable and they're watered properly.
Bare-root trees are different. These are normally available during the dormant season, typically from late autumn through winter and into early spring.
Choosing the right tree matters
Before you buy a tree because you like the way it looks, think about what it will be like in 10, 20 or even 50 years.
One of the most important considerations when planting is the eventual size of the tree.
Think about its mature height and spread, as well as its position in relation to:
your house and other buildings
neighbouring properties
paths and driveways
overhead cables
underground services
other trees and plants
A small tree from a garden centre can eventually become a very large feature of the garden.
Choosing the right species for the space now can prevent problems later.
Think about the conditions in your garden
Not every tree will thrive in every garden.
Consider how much sunlight the planting position receives, whether it's sheltered or exposed and how well the soil drains.
Some species cope well with heavier or wetter soils, while others prefer free-draining ground.
It's also worth thinking about what you want the tree to do.
Are you looking for shade? Blossom? Autumn colour? Screening? Wildlife value? Fruit?
Choosing a tree that suits both the conditions and what you want from the space gives it a much better chance of becoming a successful long-term addition to the garden.
How big should the planting hole be?
A common misconception is that a newly planted tree needs an extremely deep hole.
In reality, planting a tree too deeply can cause problems.
The planting hole should generally be wide enough to comfortably accommodate the roots or root ball, while allowing the tree to sit at an appropriate depth.
The point where the trunk begins to flare into the roots shouldn't be buried deeply beneath the soil.
Once planted, gently firm the soil around the roots and water the tree thoroughly.
Does a new tree need a stake?
Sometimes — but not automatically.
A stake may be useful where a newly planted tree needs additional support while its roots establish, particularly in more exposed locations.
Where staking is required, it should support the root system without completely preventing natural movement of the stem.
Stakes and ties also shouldn't simply be forgotten about. They need to be checked as the tree establishes so they don't become too tight or begin damaging the trunk.
Don't forget to water it
This is one of the most important parts of establishing a new tree.
Autumn rainfall certainly helps, but don't assume the weather will do all the work for you.
Periods of dry weather can still occur, and the roots of a newly planted tree haven't yet spread far enough to access water from a large area of soil.
Continue checking the soil and watering when needed.
The first couple of growing seasons are particularly important while the root system becomes established.
Mulch can help too
Adding an appropriate layer of organic mulch around the base of a newly planted tree can help retain soil moisture, suppress competing weeds and gradually improve the soil.
But avoid piling mulch directly against the trunk.
You've probably seen trees surrounded by what looks like a little volcano of mulch. It might look tidy, but having damp material constantly against the trunk isn't ideal.
Instead, leave some space around the base.
What about an existing tree that’s in the wrong place?
Moving an established tree is very different from planting a new one.
Small, relatively young trees may sometimes be successfully transplanted, but the larger and more established a tree becomes, the more complicated the process is.
Its root system may extend considerably beyond what you can see above ground, and simply digging it up can remove or damage a significant proportion of those roots.
If you're considering moving an established tree, it's worth getting advice before reaching for the spade.
Plant for the tree it will become
Planting a tree is one of those garden decisions where thinking ahead really pays off.
The little tree you plant this autumn could still be standing there decades from now.
Choose a species suited to your garden, give it enough space to reach its mature size and look after it while it establishes, and you'll give it the best possible start.
Need advice about the trees in your garden?
Tall Tree Services provides professional tree surgery throughout Gloucester, Cheltenham, Stroud, Cirencester, the Cotswolds, Tewkesbury, Malvern, Ledbury and Ross-on-Wye.
Whether you need help managing an established tree, pruning existing trees or advice about the trees already growing in your garden, our NPTC-qualified arborists can help.
Get in touch with Tall Tree Services for a free quote.