Knowing the best time to plant trees in Arkansas is the first step to ensuring they thrive for decades. This guide will walk you through the optimal seasonal planting guide for your landscape, helping you make the right choice for each tree type.
Planting at the right time gives your tree’s roots a chance to establish themselves before facing extreme heat or cold. This head start is crucial for healthy growth and reduces the amount of extra watering and care you’ll need to provide later on.
When To Plant Trees In Arkansas
The short answer for Arkansas is that fall is the absolute best season for planting most trees. Spring is a very close second, while summer and winter are generally not recommended. The state’s humid subtropical climate, with its hot summers and mild to cool winters, creates a perfect window in the autumn months.
Why Fall Planting is Ideal
Fall, specifically from late September through November, offers several key advantages. The air is cooler but the soil is still warm from the summer sun. This combination signals the tree to focus its energy below ground.
Roots grow actively in warm soil, establishing themselves without the stress of supporting top growth or leaves. By the time next summer’s heat arrives, a fall-planted tree has a much larger root system to draw moisture from the soil. This makes it far more drought-resistant.
The Case for Spring Planting
Spring, from late February to April, is the next best option. It works well for many species, especially those that are less cold-hardy. The key is to plant early, as soon as the ground is workable and the threat of a hard freeze has passed.
Spring planting allows the tree to take advantage of the entire growing season. However, you must be vigilant about watering as the tree will need to establish roots and produce leaves simultaneously before the intense Arkansas summer hits. A late spring or early summer drought can be very hard on a spring-planted tree.
Trees Best Planted in Spring
* Bald Cypress: This native loves water and gets a boost from spring rains.
* Southern Magnolia: Its broadleaf evergreen nature benefits from a full season of growth before winter.
* Crepe Myrtle: Planting in spring ensures it’s well-established before its summer bloom.
* Some fruit trees, like peaches, can do better with a spring start.
Seasons to Avoid for Planting
Summer planting (June-August) is risky due to high heat and potential drought. The tree will lose more water through its leaves than its limited roots can absorb, leading to severe transplant shock. It requires intensive, almost daily watering to survive.
Winter planting (December-February) is possible during mild spells if the ground isn’t frozen, but growth is minimal. The main risk is a sudden, severe freeze that can damage the new roots before they get settled. It’s usually better to wait for the upcoming spring.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Once you’ve chosen your season, proper planting technique is everything. Follow these steps for success:
1. Dig the Hole: Make it two to three times wider than the root ball. The depth is critical—dig only as deep as the root ball is tall. The root flare (where the trunk widens at the base) must sit slightly above the surrounding soil level.
2. Inspect and Loosen Roots: For container-grown trees, gently loosen any circling roots. For balled-and-burlapped trees, remove any wire basket and synthetic burlap after placing it in the hole.
3. Position the Tree: Place the tree in the hole, ensuring it’s straight. The root flare should be visible. Backfill with the native soil you removed—do not amend it with compost unless your soil is extremly poor.
4. Water Deeply: As you backfill, water periodically to settle the soil and remove air pockets. Create a small soil berm around the edge to form a watering basin.
5. Mulch Generously: Apply 2-4 inches of organic mulch (like pine bark) around the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk itself. This conserves moisture and regulates soil temperature.
6. Stake Only if Necessary: Stake the tree only if it’s in a very windy location or is top-heavy. Remove stakes after one year.
Choosing the Right Tree for Arkansas
Selecting a tree suited to your specific Arkansas region (Ozarks, Ouachitas, River Valley, Delta, or Coastal Plain) is as important as timing. Always consider native species first, as they are adapted to local pests and weather.
Top Native Tree Recommendations
* Shumard Oak: A superb shade tree with brilliant fall color.
* Dogwood: A beautiful understory tree with spring blooms.
* Red Maple: Fast-growing and provides stunning red fall foliage.
* Eastern Redbud: One of the first to bloom in spring with pink flowers.
* Pine Species (Loblolly, Shortleaf): Excellent for windbreaks and wildlife.
Essential Aftercare Tips
Your job isn’t done once the tree is in the ground. Consistent aftercare for the first 2-3 years is vital.
* Watering: This is the most important task. Water deeply 1-2 times per week for the first growing season. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more. A slow trickle from a hose for 20-30 minutes is better than a quick sprinkle.
* Mulch Refresh: Replenish the mulch layer each spring, maintaining the proper depth and keeping it away from the trunk to prevent rot.
* Pruning: Limit pruning at planting to removing only broken or damaged branches. Major structural pruning should wait until after the first winter for fall-planted trees, or the next winter for spring-planted trees.
* Fertilizing: Avoid fertilizing at planting time. Wait until the tree has been established for a year, then use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if a soil test indicates a need.
Common Planting Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced gardeners can make these errors. Watch out for:
* Planting too deep. This is the number one cause of tree failure. Always find the root flare.
* Over-amending the backfill soil. This can create a “pot effect” where roots don’t want to leave the comfortable hole.
* Overwatering or underwatering. Check soil moisture by feeling the soil a few inches down.
* Piling mulch against the trunk (“volcano mulching”). This invites pests, disease, and girdling roots.
* Choosing a tree too large for the site. Consider its mature height and spread, not just its nursery size.
FAQ: Planting Trees in Arkansas
Q: What is the best month to plant trees in Arkansas?
A: For fall planting, aim for October to early November. For spring planting, late March to early April is often ideal, but this can vary slightly by year and region.
Q: Can I plant fruit trees in the fall here?
A: Yes, many fruit trees like apples and pears can be planted in fall. Some more tender types, like peaches, may benefit from spring planting to avoid winter injury on young trees.
Q: How often should I water a newly planted tree?
A: For the first few months, water deeply 1-2 times per week, depending on rainfall. Always check the soil moisture first. The goal is consistently moist, not soggy, soil.
Q: Is it okay to plant trees in the summer if I water them alot?
A: It’s not recommended. The extreme heat and humidity stress the tree excessively, making establishment difficult even with frequent watering. It’s better to wait for fall.
Q: What are the best fast-growing shade trees for Arkansas?
A: Consider native options like the Tulip Poplar, Sycamore, or Red Maple. They grow relatively quickly and are well-adapted to the local climate and soils.
By following this seasonal guide and planting correctly, you give your new tree the strongest possible foundation. The right timing, combined with proper care, will help your investment grow into a healthy, beautiful asset for your property for many years to come. Remember, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago—the second best time is this coming fall.