When To Plant Trees In North Texas

If you’re wondering when to plant trees in north texas, timing is your most important decision. Getting the seasonal timing right is the single best thing you can do to give your new tree a strong, healthy start in our unique climate.

North Texas weather throws some curveballs—intense summer heat, occasional hard freezes, and unpredictable droughts. Planting at the optimal time allows a tree to focus on growing roots before it has to face its first big environmental stress. This guide will walk you through the best and worst times to plant, along with simple steps for success.

For most trees, the absolute best window for planting in North Texas is from late fall through early spring. Specifically, aim for the period after the summer heat breaks but before the new spring growth starts. This dormant season is ideal.

Let’s break down the seasons to see why.

The Best Seasons: Fall and Winter

Fall (October to November) is often considered the prime planting season. The soil is still warm from summer, which encourages root growth, but the air is cooler, reducing stress on the tree. A tree planted in fall has all winter and spring to establish its root system before the brutal summer arrives.

Winter (December to February) is also an excellent time, especially for bare-root trees. While the tree is fully dormant, it can settle in without trying to grow leaves or branches. Just avoid planting when the ground is frozen or waterlogged.

Fall Advantage: Warm soil, cool air, and months of root establishment.
Winter Advantage: Full dormancy means zero top-growth stress.
Key Tip: Always finish planting at least 4-6 weeks before a hard freeze is expected to allow for some initial root anchoring.

The Secondary Window: Early Spring

Early spring (March to early April) is your next best option. The goal is to get the tree in the ground just as the winter dormancy is ending, right before the buds break. This gives it a full growing season to get established.

You must be cautious, however. A late spring frost can damage tender new growth on some species. And if you plant to late in spring, the tree won’t have a sufficient root system to handle the July and August heat.

The Risky Season: Late Spring and Summer

Planting from late May through September is generally not advised. The extreme heat and sun put immense water stress on a new tree. Its limited root system simply can’t absorb water fast enough to keep up with evaporation from the leaves.

If you must plant during this time, choose a small container tree and be prepared for a rigorous watering regimen. You’ll need to water deeply almost daily, and even then, the tree will be under significant strain. Its survival rate is much lower compared to a fall-planted tree.

Exceptions to the Rule: Tropicals and Subtropicals

Some trees, like citrus, fig, or loquat, are more cold-sensitive. For these, it’s actually better to plant in late spring (April-May). This gives them a long season of warm weather to grow strong before they face their first North Texas winter. You’ll need to be ready to protect them from a surprise freeze in their first year or two.

How to Plant Your Tree Correctly

Once you’ve picked the right time, doing the job right is crucial. A properly planted tree recovers faster and grows better for decades. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide.

Dig the Right Hole: Dig a hole that is 2-3 times wider than the tree’s root ball, but only as deep as the root ball itself. The widest part of the trunk flare (where the roots begin to spread) should sit slightly above the surrounding soil level. In our heavy clay soil, a shallow hole prevents the tree from sinking and suffocating.
Handle the Roots: For container trees, gently loosen and spread any circling roots. For balled-and-burlapped trees, remove any wire basket and synthetic burlap after placing it in the hole. Natural burlap can be left but should be pulled back from the trunk.
Backfill with Native Soil: Do not amend the backfill soil with compost or potting mix. Using only the soil you dug out encourages roots to venture into the native soil instead of staying confined to a rich pocket. Break up large clods as you fill the hole.
Water Deeply: As you backfill, water periodically to settle the soil and remove air pockets. Once filled, create a low berm of soil around the edge of the root zone to form a water basin. Give it a final, slow, deep watering.
Mulch Properly: Apply 3-4 inches of organic mulch (like shredded hardwood) over the root zone. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk itself to prevent rot and rodent damage. Mulch is vital for conserving moisture and regulating soil temperature.
Stake Only If Necessary: Most young trees do not need staking, which can weaken trunk development. Only stake if the tree is in a very windy site or is top-heavy. If you do stake, use wide, flexible ties and remove them after one year.

Choosing the Right Tree for North Texas

Your timing won’t matter if the tree isn’t suited for our region. Always select species known to thrive in North Texas heat, drought, and soil.

Native Oaks: Live Oak, Bur Oak, and Texas Red Oak are superb, resilient choices.
Other Tough Natives: Cedar Elm, Pecan, Texas Ash, and Mexican Sycamore.
Well-Adapted Ornamentals: Crape Myrtle (select for size!), Chinese Pistache, and Lacebark Elm.
What to Avoid: Steer clear of trees that require constant moisture or cool summers, like many Northern maples or River Birch (unless you have a naturally wet spot).

Aftercare is Everything

The first 2-3 years are critical for a trees establishment. Your care during this period determines its long-term health.

Watering: This is the most important task. For the first year, water deeply 2-3 times per week, depending on rainfall and temperature. The goal is to keep the root ball moist but not soggy. In the second and third summers, water deeply once a week during dry spells. A soaker hose is a great tool for this.

Pruning: Limit pruning at planting time to removing only broken, dead, or rubbing branches. Major structural pruning should wait until after the tree has gone through a full growing season in its new location.

Fertilizing: Hold off on fertilizing at planting time. You can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in the second spring, but often it’s not needed if you used good mulch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Planting Too Deep: This is the #1 cause of tree failure. Always find the trunk flare and keep it above grade.
Overwatering or Underwatering: Check soil moisture with your finger. Clay soil can feel wet on top but be dry an inch down, or vice versa.
Piling Mulch on the Trunk (“Volcano Mulching”): This invites disease, insects, and girdling roots. Keep mulch away from the trunk.
Ignoring the Forecast: If you plant in fall and a hard freeze is coming within a week, be prepared to protect a young, tender tree with frost cloth.

FAQ: Planting Trees in North Texas

Can I plant trees in North Texas in the summer?

It is not recommended due to extreme heat and water stress. If you must, choose a small container tree, plant on a cloudy day, and commit to very frequent, deep watering. Survival rates are lower.

What is the best month to plant trees in Texas?

For North Texas, November and March are often ideal. November offers cool air and warm soil, while March provides a full growing season ahead.

Is it better to plant trees in fall or spring here?

Fall is generally superior because it gives the tree more time (fall, winter, spring) to grow roots before summer stress. Spring planting is good, but the tree has less time to prepare for its first heat wave.

How often should I water a newly planted tree?

For the first few months, water deeply 2-3 times per week, adjusting for rain. Always water slowly so it soaks down to the entire root ball. As the tree establishes, you can gradually extend the time between waterings.

What are the best shade trees to plant in North Texas?

Excellent shade tree choices include Live Oak, Bur Oak, Cedar Elm, Chinese Pistache, and Pecan. All are well-adapted to our climate and soils once established.

Choosing the right time to plant is the first and biggest gift you can give your new tree. By following this seasonal guide and proper planting techniques, you’ll set your tree up for a long, healthy, and beautiful life in your North Texas landscape. Remember, the patient gardener who plants in the quiet season is rewarded with vigorous growth for years to come.