You may have heard the Chinese Proverb “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second best time is now.” Trees offer shade and beauty in our landscapes as well as reducing utility costs and providing food sources and habitat for wildlife. The fall season is an excellent time to plant trees! In the spring, soils are cold and may be so wet that there isn’t enough oxygen for adequate root growth. Fall soils are warm and moist which encourages growth. When planted in fall, the tree becomes established well before a spring planted tree and is able to withstand summer stresses.
To pick the perfect tree for your landscape, consult K-State’s recommended list: https://www.kansasforests.org/community_forestry/community_docs/NW%20Preferred%20Trees122016.pdf
By: Cassie Homan