As the summer season winds down you have probably started to see the sale and clearance signs popping up as stores try to clear out their leftover inventory. While you might be trying to sneak one more budget friendly, home improvement project in, you might also be asking yourself, is it too late to plant a tree in Colorado? Here is what you need to know about that manager’s special tree you’ve been eyeing at the local nursery or tree farm and the best time to plant a tree in Colorado!
Trees can be planted at almost any time of the year, but there are a few exceptions. When thinking of planting a tree there are a few things to consider first. Along with timing of the planting, you should make sure to choose the right tree for your needs and assess the planting site.
TIMING
The best time to plant a tree in Colorado is in the spring or fall. The weather is usually optimal for this due to the lower temperatures and higher precipitation levels.
In the fall (September to early October), is a great time to plant a tree as the cooler weather reduces stress on the tree and the soil temperatures are still adequate to promote root growth. This is beneficial as the roots can develop throughout the fall and are less likely to suffer from heat stress. Be sure to plant early enough though that the tree can establish itself prior to the ground freezing.
In the spring (around late April to early June), the soil is starting to warm up and the trees will have time to establish their root structure prior to the summer heat setting in. It is important to avoid planting too early in the spring though since Colorado can have unpredictable late frosts and colder temperatures.
WATERING
Watering is key! Making sure a tree has plenty of water when planting is very important to help a young tree establish their roots. Also, a drought-stressed tree may die or can have issues later on with pests or diseases.
PLANTING
Planting is the most important step in setting up a tree for a long and healthy life. Where you plant a tree and how it is planted will determine how well it is able to survive. Choosing the right tree for the space is also important because trees can grow too large, so making sure they have plenty of space is important especially for roots since they cannot be pruned like the canopy.
Planting at the right height is also important. Planting too low can cause root/trunk issues and planting too high can give the tree a weak base and make it more likely to fall over.
AFTERCARE
One of the most common mistakes people make after planting is putting too much mulch around the base of the tree. While some mulch is good for retaining water and protecting roots (and the trunk) from damage, too much can cause girdling roots, cause decay around the trunk and create a hospitable environment for funguses that can be harmful to the tree.
CONTINUED CARE
It is important that even when your tree is older that you continue to make sure it stays healthy. Watering when it is hot outside can keep drought stress low. Fertilizing the soil is important for giving the tree all the nutrients it needs. Along with routine pruning and monitoring for pests and diseases a tree can live for many years and be around for everyone to enjoy.
So in conclusion, planting a tree in Colorado can be a rewarding project, whether you choose to do it in spring or fall. By paying attention to the timing, proper watering, and planting techniques, you set your tree up for a long and healthy life. Remember, continued care such as routine watering, mulching, and pruning will ensure your tree thrives for years to come. So go ahead and take advantage of those nursery sales, and enjoy the beauty and benefits your new tree will bring to your home and community! As your tree grows, be sure to contact the team at Splintered Forest for all your fertilization, trimming and other plant health care needs!
Want a new tree, but don’t have time to DIY the planting? The Splintered Forest Team can help with tree planting too!
Sources:
https://csfs.colostate.edu/colorado-trees/selecting-planting-and-caring-for-trees/
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/proper-tree-planting-techniques-bb/