For many home gardeners, spring is an opportunity to participate in tree planting for shade, enjoyment, and for wildlife. It is important to remember that success starts long before a shovel hits the ground. Proper timing, careful planting techniques, and thoughtful tree selection can make the difference between a thriving landscape asset and a struggling sapling.
According to guidance from OSU Extension horticulture and forestry resources, the best times to plant new trees in the state are April through mid-June and late October through mid-December. These windows offer moderate temperatures and adequate soil moisture, allowing roots to establish before the stress of summer heat or frozen winter soils.
Timing alone is not enough to determine success. We must not overlook a simple principle: “Right plant, right place.” Trees must be matched to their environment, including soil conditions, sunlight exposure, and available space. Ignoring these factors can limit growth, increase maintenance needs, or shorten the tree’s lifespan.
When it comes time to plant, technique matters. Rather than digging deep, it is recommended to dig a hole three to four times wider than the tree’s container, with gently sloped sides. This shape promotes outward root growth, helping the tree stabilize and absorb water and nutrients more effectively. Care should be taken when removing the tree from its container to keep the root ball intact. For trees that have become root-bound—a common issue with container-grown plants—some thinning cuts to the roots can encourage healthier growth after planting.
Proper positioning is another critical step. The root collar, where the trunk meets the roots, should sit slightly above ground level. Once placed, soil from the original hole should be packed firmly around the roots. A thorough initial watering helps eliminate air pockets and sets the stage for root establishment.
The first year after planting is especially important. Newly planted trees focus much of their energy on root development, making consistent watering essential. It is advised that your newly planted trees receive daily deep watering for the first two weeks, followed by weekly watering thereafter. Mulch can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, but too much mulch can create cool, overly damp conditions that encourage pests and disease.
Ultimately, trees are long-term investments. With thoughtful planning, proper care, and species selection tailored to site conditions, today’s tree plantings can provide shade, wildlife habitat, and enjoyment for generations to come.
If you are interested in learning more about trees, or adding trees or other plants to your landscape, Secrest Arboretum will be hosting their Spring Plant Discovery Day sale on Saturday May 9th, from 9 AM – 1 PM at the Secrest Arboretum Welcome and Education Center located at 2122 Williams Road, Wooster, OH 44691. The sale, which is hosted by the Friends of Secrest Arboretum, will feature over 120 varieties of trees, shrubs, perennials, annuals, herbs and more. This is a great opportunity to check out a great variety of plants, as well as speak with some local experts about finding the best fit for your yard and garden and learning about care and management. To view the plant sale list for the Secrest Plant Discovery Day sale, visit friendsofsecrest.org.
Frank Becker is the Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator with Ohio State University Extension – Wayne County, and a Certified Crop Adviser, and may be reached at 330-264-8722 or becker.587@osu.edu
CFAES provides research and related educational programs to clientele on a nondiscriminatory basis. For more information, visit cfaes.osu.edu/nondiscrimination
This article was previously published in The Daily Record.