Planting trees can be both rewarding and frustrating: rewarding when you finally get to see the fruits of your labor, and frustrating when you inevitably confront problems. Where should you plant your tree? How much sun should it get? When is the best time for planting? Thankfully, at LANDED we have answers to your questions. Read on for info about planting trees in Virginia.
About Virginia’s Climates
Virginia has multiple climates, including oceanic, humid subtropical, and humid continental, each with a hardiness zone specific to the area. Virginia’s hardiness zones vary from zone 5a in the mountains to zone 8a in the coastal regions. Knowing which region you’re in will help in determining the best time of year to plant trees. Click here to view the USDA Planting map of Virginia or read on to for examples of regions and their hardiness zones:
Hardiness Zones by Region
Northwestern Virginia at the topmost part can experience temperatures as low as -15 F with a hardiness zone of 5b, however, most of northern Virginia will range from 6a to 7b, depending on which city you live in (refer to the USDA planting map for zone by city)
Western Virginia, from Lee to Frederick, will generally range from 6a to 7a
Southern Virginia, from Patrick to Chesapeake, will range from 7b to 8b, depending on which city you live in.
Eastern Virginia, from Greensville to Westmoreland County, will range from 8a to 8b.
What Do Hardiness Zones Tell You About Planting?
Hardiness zones are determined by the annual minimum temperature of each location. They help in determining what plants will thrive in each zones based off the lowest projected temperature for a specific location. As previously mentioned, Virginia has various regions, each with their own hardiness zones and growing seasons. Some regions having longer growing seasons than others.
To know which months are best for planting in Virginia, let’s look at the growing season by hardiness zones:
Zone 6: Areas in zone 6 are likely to have the last frost in late April and the first frost in October. For areas in zone 6, the best time to plant is after the last frost (late April - early May)
Zone 7: Areas in zone 7 are likely to experience the last frost in early April, with the first frost occurring in late October. For best results, plant after the last frost of April.
Zone 8: Areas in zone 8 are likely to experience the last frost in late March, with the first frost occurring in November. For best results, plant in April.
When Is the Best Month to Plant a Tree in Virginia?
The best time to plant trees in Virginia is fall instead of Spring. Let’s explore why
Spring Planting
Spring – particularly late March to early May – is a popular time for planting due to moderate temperatures and ample rainfall. However, trees planted in spring must quickly establish roots before the onset of summer heat.
Fall Planting
From late September to early November, fall planting allows trees to establish their root systems during the cooler months. The soil remains warm, promoting root growth, while the air cools down, reducing the stress on the tree. Additionally, pests and diseases are less active in the fall, giving young trees a better chance to thrive.
Late Season Planting: Tips and Tricks
Planting trees late in the season – around November and even early December – is possible with the right preparation and care. Here are some tips to ensure successful late-season planting:
Choose Hardy Species
Select tree species that are hardy and can withstand Virginia’s winter temperatures. Native species are often a good choice as they are well-adapted to the local climate.
Prepare the Soil:
Making sure the planting site is well-prepared with good drainage can help avoid planting in waterlogged or compacted soil. Then, amending the soil with compost can improve its structure and fertility.
Proper Planting Techniques:
Digging the hole:Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the tree’s root ball but no deeper. This encourages the roots to spread outward.
Planting Depth: Plant the tree at the same depth it was growing in the nursery. Planting too deep can cause root rot, while planting too shallow can expose roots to drying out.
Mulching: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and reduce weed competition.
Watering: Newly planted trees need consistent moisture. Water the tree thoroughly after planting and continue to water regularly, especially if the fall season is dry. Watering should taper off as winter approaches to prevent waterlogging.
Protection: Protect young trees from harsh winter winds and frost. Wrapping the trunk with tree wrap or using a tree guard can prevent damage from temperature fluctuations and keep animals from eating.
Benefits of Late Season Planting
Planting trees late in the season has several advantages:
Reduced Stress: Cooler temperatures reduce the stress on the tree, leading to better root establishment.
Extended Growing Time: Trees planted in fall have a head start on growth for the following spring.
Pest and Disease Control: Lower pest activity in the fall reduces the risk of infestations and diseases.
Tree Species Suitable for Late Planting in Virginia
Several tree species are well-suited for late planting in Virginia. Here are some recommendations:
Red Maple (Acer Rubrum): Known for its vibrant fall color and adaptability.
Eastern Redbud (Cercis Canadensis): A native species with stunning spring flowers.
White Oak (Quercus Alba): A hardy tree with strong wood and excellent wildlife value.
Virginia Pine (Pinus Virginiana): A resilient pine species native to the state.
American Holly (Ilex Opaca): An evergreen tree that provides year-round interest and habitat for birds.
Conclusion
Planting trees late in the season in Virginia is not only possible but can also be highly beneficial. By understanding the unique climate zones, choosing the right species, and following proper planting techniques, you can ensure your trees thrive and grow into healthy, mature specimens. As always, if you reside within the DC area, LANDED will help you turn your outdoor space into an oasis. Whether you're looking to enhance your landscape or contribute to the environment, late-season planting can be a rewarding endeavor. So, it’s time to get going! Happy planting!