Can You Plant An Arborvitae In The Fall

Yes, you can plant an arborvitae in the fall, and it’s actually one of the best times to do it.
 
When you ask yourself, can you plant an arborvitae in the fall, the answer is a confident yes because the cooler weather and moist soil create ideal conditions for root growth.
 
Many gardeners wonder about planting arborvitae in the fall since spring seems like the obvious choice, but fall planting has major advantages.
 
If you’ve been thinking about adding an arborvitae to your yard, the fall season lets the tree establish roots before winter dormancy.
 
In this post, we’ll break down why you can plant an arborvitae in the fall, the best practices for fall planting, and how to care for your new tree through the colder months.
 
Let’s dig in.
 

Why You Can Plant an Arborvitae in the Fall

Planting an arborvitae in the fall works because of the tree’s natural growth cycle and the season’s favorable conditions.
 
Here’s why fall is a smart choice for your arborvitae:
 

1. Cooler Temperatures Reduce Transplant Shock

When you plant an arborvitae in the fall, the cooler air means less stress on the tree.
 
Summer heat can cause newly planted trees to wilt and struggle, but fall’s mild days and chilly nights keep the arborvitae comfortable.
 
This lower stress level allows the tree to focus energy on root development instead of fighting heat.
 
That’s why planting an arborvitae in the fall gives it a head start before next summer.
 

2. Soil Stays Warm Enough for Root Growth

Even though the air gets cool, the soil in fall remains warm from the summer months.
 
Roots of an arborvitae continue to grow actively as long as soil temperatures stay above about 40°F (4°C).
 
When you plant an arborvitae in the fall, those roots have several weeks to spread and anchor before the ground freezes.
 
This early root system means your arborvitae will be stronger and more drought-tolerant come spring.
 

3. Natural Rainfall Provides Consistent Moisture

Fall typically brings more regular rain than summer, which is perfect for newly planted trees.
 
When you plant an arborvitae in the fall, you don’t have to worry as much about watering every day.
 
The consistent moisture helps the roots establish without the risk of overwatering or underwatering.
 
Just keep an eye on rainfall and supplement if you hit a dry spell.
 

Best Practices for Planting an Arborvitae in the Fall

To make sure your fall-planted arborvitae thrives, follow these simple steps.
 

1. Choose the Right Time Within Fall

Not every day in fall is ideal for planting an arborvitae.
 
Aim to plant at least 4 to 6 weeks before the ground freezes in your area.
 
For most regions, that means planting in early to mid-fall, well before the first hard frost.
 
When you plant an arborvitae in the fall too late, the roots won’t have enough time to settle in.
 

2. Pick a Sunny, Well-Drained Spot

Arborvitae love full sun, so choose a location that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
 
Good drainage is crucial because wet roots in cold soil can rot.
 
When you plant an arborvitae in the fall, avoid low areas where water pools after rain.
 

3. Prepare the Planting Hole Properly

Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper than the root ball itself.
 
Loosen the soil around the sides so roots can spread easily.
 
Place the arborvitae in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
 
Backfill with native soil, water deeply, and add a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the base.
 
But keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent rot.
 

Caring for Your Arborvitae After Fall Planting

Once you’ve planted your arborvitae in the fall, a little care through winter ensures it returns strong in spring.
 

1. Water Deeply Until the Ground Freezes

Even after planting, continue watering your arborvitae deeply every week if rain is scarce.
 
The goal is to keep the root zone moist, not soggy.
 
Stop watering once the ground freezes, as the tree will go dormant and won’t absorb much.
 

2. Protect From Winter Wind and Snow

Arborvitae are evergreen, meaning they keep their foliage through winter.
 
Strong winds and heavy snow can damage branches.
 
When you plant an arborvitae in the fall, consider wrapping the tree in burlap or setting up a windbreak for its first winter.
 
Gently brush off heavy snow to prevent bending or breaking.
 

3. Skip Fertilizer Until Spring

Fertilizing in fall encourages new tender growth that won’t harden off before frost.
 
When you plant an arborvitae in the fall, let the tree focus on root growth, not leaf growth.
 
Wait until next spring to apply a slow-release fertilizer.
 

So, Can You Plant an Arborvitae in the Fall?

Yes, you can plant an arborvitae in the fall, and it’s a smart move for your landscape.
 
When you plant an arborvitae in the fall, you give the tree a head start on root establishment thanks to cool air, warm soil, and natural rainfall.
 
Just follow the timing, planting, and care tips we covered, and your arborvitae will settle in nicely before winter.
 
If you’ve been on the fence about fall planting, now you know the answer: you can plant an arborvitae in the fall with confidence.