New trees may not seem like the best idea in fall, September being part of fall however, patient gardeners know that planting trees at this time is the best time to get new trees as the roots will begin to grow and thrive below the ground. While your neighbours may be rushing to put spring stressed trees in their yards, fall planted native trees in your yard will be developing root systems to make them the best trees.
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Check PriceThe key is working with nature. The cooler air temp will cause stress to your trees, but the soil will stay warm enough for root growth activities to continue until November. This process creates months of tree establishment before the next summer heat test.
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Why September is a Winning Month for Native Trees
Native species have evolved over thousands of years to thrive within the local climate, soil conditions, and weather patterns of the region. This means they will require little to no watering and no fertilizing. Native species also provide natural pest resistance. Finally, native species can provide habitat and food for 10-50 times more wildlife than exotic species.
Natives prefer Fall planting because it coincides with their natural dormancy period. When natives are planted between September and November, they can direct all their resources into root development rather than foliage.
1. Eastern Redbud – The Star of Early Spring
This heart-shaped beauty offers magenta flowers that grow directly on the bare branches in early spring. It is followed by unique heart-shaped foliage. In zones 5-9, this can be planted now for 20-30 feet of elegant beauty that provides forage for early season pollinators when there are very few other blooms.
2. Red Maple – The Queen of Autumn Drama
This rapidly growing shade tree has brilliant orange-red foliage in the fall. It can be planted in zones 3-9 and can grow to be 40-60 feet tall. It can also adapt to many different soil types. When planted in September, it allows for great root development prior to the spring growing season.
3. Serviceberry – A Year-Round Marvel
These compact 10-15 foot trees are ideal for tighter locations and they thrive in zones 2-8. They produce white blossoms in the spring that are followed by berries which can be eaten by both people and animals. They also have bright golden foliage in the fall that will create interest in your landscape year-round. If they are planted in the fall, they will produce a stronger amount of berries the following year.
4. American Hornbeam – A Magnet for Wildlife
With its silky, sinuous bark, offers butterflies a supportive environment while creating a visually interesting space in the winter. In zones 3-9, it grows 20-30 feet. It has a striking golden color in the fall. When planted in September, this slow growing species has the opportunity to develop a strong root system before the advent of spring leaf emergence.
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5. Flowering Dogwood – The Showstopper
Those are not real flower petals, but rather specialized leaves known as bracts. These leaves create a stunning white display in spring. They are 15–30 feet tall and produce red berries that are eaten by birds. They are hardy in zones 5-9. This species can be a bit picky, but planting in fall will decrease transplant shock.
6. River Birch – The Texture King
In winter, the tree has interest because of its peeling bark which is cinnamon colored, while in the fall, the tree's golden leaves offer drama. This tree species grows to a height of 30-70 feet and can be found in zones 4-9. Heat and Pest tolerance is superior for this species, and when planted in September, the natural vigor of the tree can be utilized.
7. American Holly, The Evergreen Powerhouse
Spiny evergreen leaves and glossy red berries (on female trees) create classic winter beauty. Zones 5-10, 15-60 feet depending on variety. With the winter beauty, remember to get both male and female trees for the winter berry production! Plant in the fall to give the winter beauty time to establish before the summer stress.
8. Fringetree – A Pleasant Surprise
When you plant in September, you can expect strong blooms the following season. This species has flower clusters that droop downward and have an incredible scent that attracts beneficial insects. Their flowers are strap-like and white, and bloom during the late spring. They can be found in zones 3-9 and can grow to be 12 to 30 feet tall. This species has a high adaptability to the blooming conditions.
9. Blue Spruce – the drought fighter
This evergreen can grow from 30-60 ft and has great drought tolerance once established. Fall planting gives the roots important time to develop. This tree is a landscaping classic in zone 3-7. The needles are silvery-blue and the shape is a perfect cone.
10. Arborvitae – Solution for Your Privacy
Evergreen urban screening that is tolerant of winter conditions is available. Its natural columnar growth structure and height of 20-40 feet makes it suitable for zones 3-7. Planting in September ensures good root establishment, giving the plant improved wind resistance.
11. Juniper Species – The Survivors With Versatility
Range of sizes from 2-50 feet, these zones 3-9 evergreen shrubs provide blue berries for wild birds and amazing drought tolerance. Their natural hardiness is complemented with fall planting.
12. American Magnolia \- The Southern Belle
Large waxy white flowers with an amazing fragrance are surrounded by glossy, evergreen, or semi-evergreen leaves. They range from 15 to 80 feet depending on species and are hardy to zones 4-9. Planting in September will minimize shock on these wonderful specimens.
13. Smoketree – The Conversation Starter
The plum colored foliage and pink, smoky plumes creates a one of a kind, dramatic centerpiece in your garden. This tree thrives in fall and does well in 'growing zones' of 3 through 8. This tree can reach a height of anywhere between, 20 and 30 feet. It's use in landscaping will provide your neighbors a spectacular view of a fall colored masterpiece. Your neighbors will be curious come fall and wonder what unusual tree you have planted.
Success Strategy for Planting in September
To help establish the roots, plant six to eight weeks prior to your average first hard frost. Water plants deeply (but more infrequently) to help promote deep-root growth. Put down 3 to 4 inches of organic mulch, while keeping the mulch about 6 inches away from the trunk.
For the first year, do not use fertilizer. Fall-planted trees should use that energy to develop the root system rather than the upper portions. If you receive less than 1 inch of rain weekly, start watering weekly until the fall, then continue with the normal watering regimen in the spring.
When the trees you planted in September are looking healthy with strong roots, your neighbours trees planted in springs are still struggling with survival. Moreover, you won’t have had to do much for the trees to thrive. You’ll be working in harmony with nature.
