Fall Is for Trees: Why September Is a Great Time to Plant

If a new tree or larger shrub has been on your landscape wish list, September is a great time to get planting. In Massachusetts, cooler fall temperatures combined with soil that is still holding warmth from summer can create excellent conditions for establishing many woody plants.

Planting now gives trees and shrubs an opportunity to begin settling into their new surroundings before winter, helping them get a head start when spring returns.

Why September Is a Great Planting Month

Summer heat can put additional stress on newly transplanted plants. As September brings cooler days and nights, conditions become more comfortable for both plants and gardeners.

Fall planting offers several advantages:

• Cooler temperatures reduce transplant stress
• Warm soil encourages continued root development
• Moisture evaporates more slowly than during summer heat
• Plants can devote more energy to establishing roots
• Trees and shrubs can begin settling in before winter

While you may not see dramatic growth above ground, important development can still be happening below the soil.

Give Trees a Head Start on Spring

Planting a tree in September allows its root system to begin adjusting to the surrounding soil before winter dormancy.

When temperatures warm again in spring, the tree is already in place and ready to continue establishing. Instead of being freshly transplanted as summer approaches, it has had valuable time to settle into the landscape.

Add Shade, Privacy and Structure

Trees and larger shrubs can transform both the appearance and function of your property.

Consider adding them to:

• Create shade around patios and outdoor spaces
• Add privacy between neighboring properties
• Screen an unwanted view
• Frame a driveway, walkway, or entrance
• Add spring flowers
• Bring colorful foliage to the fall landscape
• Create year-round evergreen structure
• Provide food and shelter for wildlife

A carefully chosen tree or shrub can become a lasting focal point in the landscape.

Choose the Right Plant for the Right Place

Before falling in love with a tree at the garden center, think about where it will eventually live.

Consider:

• Mature height and width
• Sunlight requirements
• Soil and drainage
• Available root space
• Proximity to buildings and walkways
• Overhead wires
• Desired flowers, foliage, or fall color

Planning for the plant’s mature size can help create a healthier landscape and prevent problems later.

Plant at the Proper Depth

Proper planting is especially important with trees and larger shrubs.

Dig a planting hole wider than the root ball, but avoid planting too deeply. With trees, the root flare near the base of the trunk should remain visible rather than being buried beneath soil or mulch.

Once planted, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

Keep Watering Through Fall

Cooler weather doesn’t mean newly planted trees and shrubs can be forgotten.

Continue monitoring soil moisture throughout fall, particularly during stretches without significant rainfall. Deep watering encourages roots to grow into the surrounding soil.

Continue watering as needed until the ground begins to freeze.

Add Mulch the Right Way

Mulch helps conserve moisture, moderate soil temperatures, and reduce competition from weeds.

Spread mulch around the root zone, but don’t pile it against the trunk or stems. Keeping the base of the plant clear helps avoid excess moisture around the bark.

Invest in Your Landscape This Fall

Trees and larger shrubs are long-term additions that can become more beautiful and valuable to your landscape every year.

Whether you want shade, privacy, flowers, fall color, evergreen structure, or a beautiful focal point, September is an excellent time to start planning and planting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is September a good time to plant trees in Massachusetts?

Yes. Cooler air and soil that remains warm from summer can provide favorable conditions for establishing many trees and larger shrubs.

Can I plant larger shrubs in fall?

Yes. Many shrubs benefit from the same cooler conditions that make fall a good planting season for trees.

Do newly planted trees need water in fall?

Yes. New trees and shrubs need consistent moisture as their roots begin establishing, especially during dry periods.

Should I mulch around a newly planted tree?

Yes. Mulch can help conserve moisture and moderate soil temperatures, but keep it away from direct contact with the trunk.

Why should I consider mature size before planting?

Trees and shrubs can grow significantly over time. Planning for mature height and width helps ensure they have enough room without interfering with buildings, walkways, or other plants.

Visit Crystal Lake Garden Shop

Thinking about adding a tree or larger shrub to your landscape? Visit Crystal Lake Garden Shop and take advantage of September’s planting season at either location.

Crystal Lake Garden Shop, Plymouth
252 Summer Street
Plymouth, MA 02360

Open 7 Days: 9 AM to 5 PM

Crystal Lake Garden Shop, Carver
19 West Street
Carver, MA 02330

Open 7 Days: 9 AM to 5 PM