When Should I Plant Trees and Shrubs in Dallas?

The best time to plant most hardy trees and shrubs around Dallas is fall through late winter, generally from October into early March. Soil remains warm enough for root activity after the air cools, giving plants several months to establish before summer.

Planting at the right time does not eliminate the need for watering, but it greatly reduces stress. A tree planted in November faces a far easier beginning than one installed during July.

Why fall planting works

During autumn and winter, leaves lose less water and roots can gradually expand into surrounding soil. By the following summer, the plant has a larger root system capable of supplying moisture during hot weather.

Spring planting is also workable, particularly for tender or borderline-hardy shrubs. The disadvantage is the shorter establishment period before intense heat. Watch spring-planted material closely through its first summer.

Planting correctly in clay

Dig a hole no deeper than the root ball and considerably wider. The top of the root flare should remain visible at or slightly above the finished soil level. Planting too deeply is one of the most common causes of long-term tree decline.

Backfill primarily with the existing soil. Filling one hole with loose, rich potting material can discourage roots from entering the surrounding clay and may hold excessive water. If the entire bed needs improvement, amend a broad area instead.

Remove containers, wire and synthetic wrapping. Examine circling roots and correct them before planting. Water thoroughly to settle soil, but do not compact it heavily with your feet.

Care during the first year

Apply two to four inches of mulch over the root zone, keeping it several inches away from the trunk. Water the root ball and surrounding soil deeply, then allow oxygen to return before watering again. The schedule will change with temperature, rainfall, soil and plant size.

Staking is unnecessary for many properly planted trees. If a tree cannot stand securely, use flexible supports and remove them after establishment so the trunk can strengthen naturally.

Avoid heavy fertilizer at planting time. The immediate goal is healthy root growth, not a flush of tender top growth. Choose an appropriate species, give it adequate space and concentrate on correct depth and moisture.

A properly planted Dallas tree may outlive the gardener who installs it. Spending an extra hour on site selection and planting depth is far more valuable than trying to correct those mistakes years later.