When Is The Best Time To Plant Trees In Texas

If you’re looking to add trees to your Texas landscape, timing is everything. Knowing when is the best time to plant trees in Texas makes the difference between a tree that struggles and one that thrives for decades.

Our state’s diverse climate, from humid east Texas to arid west Texas, means the ideal window can shift. But one rule holds true across most regions. Planting during the cooler, dormant season gives your new tree a major head start.

The optimal planting season for most of Texas is late fall through early spring. Specifically, aim for the period after trees drop their leaves in the fall and before they bud out in the spring. This is typically from November to March.

During dormancy, trees focus their energy on root growth rather than top growth. This allows them to establish a strong root system in the new location before the intense summer heat and drought stress arrive. It’s a much gentler transition for the tree.

Breaking Down the Texas Seasons for Planting

Let’s look at the pros and cons of each season within that window.

Fall Planting (Late October – December)

This is often considered the absolute best time. Soil is still warm from the summer, which encourages root growth. The air is cooler, reducing water loss from leaves. The tree has all winter to settle in.

Pros: Warm soil, cool air, ample time for root establishment before summer.
Cons: Early freezes can damage very young, tender trees if not protected.
Best For: Almost all tree types, especially oaks, maples, and fruit trees.

Winter Planting (January – February)

Winter is a perfectly good time to plant, provided the ground isn’t frozen. Bare-root trees are often available this time of year, which are usually more affordable.

Pros: Trees are fully dormant. Bare-root options available.
Cons: Growth won’t start until spring. Fewer planting days due to weather.
Best For: Bare-root trees, deciduous shade trees.

Early Spring Planting (March – Early April)

This is your last call for dormant-season planting. You must get trees in the ground before they break bud. The window is short but effective.

Pros: Soil is warming, rain is more frequent. You’ll see top growth quickly.
Cons: If you miss the dormant window, the tree will be stressed.
Best For: Getting a jump on the growing season.

What About Summer Planting?

Planting in the Texas summer (May – September) is generally not recommended. The extreme heat and drought conditions put immense stress on a new tree. Its underdeveloped roots can’t uptake water fast enough to keep up with evaporation.

If you must plant in summer, choose small container trees and be prepared for intensive, daily watering and shading. The survival rate is significantly lower, even with excellent care.

Regional Adjustments Across Texas

Texas has multiple climate zones, so you need to fine-tune your timing.

North Texas & Panhandle

Winters are colder and summers are hot. The fall window is shorter. Aim for October to November or February to March. Avoid planting too late in fall before a hard freeze.

Central Texas

This region has the most flexible window. Fall (November-December) and late winter (February) are excellent. The mild winters allow for good root growth.

South Texas & Gulf Coast

Winters are very mild and summers are long and hot. Fall planting is superb, extending from November through January. The lack of a hard freeze is a big advantage here.

West Texas

Arid and windy. The key is avoiding summer heat. Plant in very early fall (October) or late winter (February). Water is critical, so ensure you have a reliable irrigation plan from day one.

Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Your Tree

Once you’ve chosen the right time, follow these steps for success.

Choose the Right Tree: Select a species native or well-adapted to your specific region and soil type. Your local county extension office has great lists.
Pick a Good Spot: Consider the tree’s mature size. Ensure it’s away from power lines, foundations, and has enough space for its roots and canopy.
Dig a Proper Hole: This is crucial. Dig a hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball, but no deeper. The root flare (where trunk widens at base) must be slightly above ground level.
Handle Roots Carefully: Gently loosen circling roots on container trees. For bare-root trees, soak roots in water for a few hours before planting.
Place and Backfill: Set the tree in the hole. Backfill with the original soil, don’t amend it. Tamp gently to remove air pockets.
Water Deeply: Create a soil berm around the hole to form a watering basin. Soak the area thoroughly immediately after planting.
Mulch: Apply 3-4 inches of organic mulch (like shredded bark) in a wide circle around the tree. Keep mulch away from the trunk itself to prevent rot.
Stake Only If Necessary: Stake the tree only if its in a very windy location and it can’t support itself. Remove stakes after one year.

Essential Aftercare for Your New Tree

The first few years are critical. Your tree isn’t established until its root system has grown into the surrounding soil.

Watering: This is the most important task. Water deeply and slowly 1-2 times per week for the first summer. Adjust based on rainfall. The goal is moist, not soggy, soil.
Mulch Refresh: Top up the mulch layer each spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pruning: Limit pruning at planting to removing only broken or damaged branches. Wait until after the first full growing season for structural pruning.
Fertilizing: Avoid fertilizing at planting time. Wait until the tree has been in the ground for at least a year to see how it grows.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced gardeners can make these errors.

Planting Too Deep: This is the #1 cause of tree death. Always keep the root flare visible.
Overwatering or Underwatering: Check soil moisture with your finger a few inches down.
Using Fertilizer in the Hole: It can burn new roots. Just use native soil.
Piling Mulch Against the Trunk: This creates a habitat for pests and disease. Leave a “donut” of bare soil around the trunk.
Choosing the Wrong Tree: A sun-loving tree in shade, or a water-loving tree in dry clay, will never thrive.

FAQ: Your Texas Tree Planting Questions

Can I plant trees in Texas in the spring?

Yes, early spring (March) is acceptable if you plant while the tree is still dormant. Late spring planting is risky as summer heat arrives to quickly.

What is the best month to plant trees in Central Texas?

November is often ideal, but the window from late October through February is generally safe and effective for central Texas.

Is it okay to plant trees in the fall?

Absolutely. Fall is the prefered season for tree planting across most of Texas, giving roots a long establishment period.

How often should I water a newly planted tree?

For the first few months, water deeply 1-2 times per week, depending on weather. As the tree establishes over the next 2-3 years, you can gradually reduce frequency but increase the amount of water per session.

What are the best native trees to plant in Texas?

Excellent choices include Live Oak, Texas Redbud, Pecan, Cedar Elm, and Mexican Sycamore. Always check which are native to your specific ecoregion for the best results.

By choosing the right time and following proper planting techniques, you give your tree the strongest possible foundation. A well-planted tree becomes a legacy, providing shade, beauty, and value for generations to come. Remember, the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago—the second best time is this coming fall.