Choosing the Right Time to Plant

Planting in autumn will allow a tree's roots to become established before winter, which will help it withstand any hot, dry spells the following summer. However, in cold areas, it may be better to plant trees in spring, as this will usually mean that the tree will become established more quickly.

Root Balled Trees

• Generally, early to mid-autumn or mid- to late spring.
• Deciduous trees may be planted in winter in mild conditions.

Bare Root Trees

• Deciduous trees: between mid-autumn and mid-spring (avoiding periods of frost).
• Hardy trees with fleshy roots (evergreen or deciduous): mid-autumn or mid-to late spring.
• Half-hardy trees: mid-spring.

Container Grown Trees

• Any time of year, other than periods of frost or drought.